ARRL Technician Practice Exam

Who does the FCC presume to be the control operator of an amateur station?

1. The station technician

2. The station volunteer

3. The station licensee

4. The station owner

The correct answer is: The station licensee

The correct answer is based on the regulatory framework established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) concerning amateur radio operations. In the context of an amateur station, the FCC presumes that the control operator is the station licensee. This is because the licensee holds the responsibility for ensuring that the operation of the station complies with FCC rules and regulations. The control operator is defined as the person who has primary responsibility for the proper operation of the station and is ultimately accountable for any violations of the rules. The licensee, therefore, is recognized as the individual who has received the official authorization to operate the station and is responsible for its use and adherence to applicable laws. While a technician, volunteer, or owner may also be involved in the operation of the station, they do not inherently bear the same level of regulatory responsibility as the licensee. The presumption that the licensee is the control operator underscores the accountability embedded in the licensing process, ensuring that someone trained and responsible is overseeing the operation of amateur transmissions.