2023 VARC Update – About Us

The Valdosta Amateur Radio Club (VARC) is an active organization dedicated to fostering the growth and development of amateur radio enthusiasts in Valdosta, Georgia, and its surrounding areas. With a rich history spanning several decades, the club has become an integral part of the local amateur radio community.

VARC provides a platform for individuals who share a passion for amateur radio to come together, exchange knowledge, and engage in various activities related to the hobby. The club boasts a diverse membership, comprising both seasoned operators with years of experience and newcomers eager to explore the world of amateur radio. This diversity creates a dynamic environment where novices can learn from the seasoned veterans, and experienced operators can stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

One of VARC’s primary objectives is to promote education and licensing in amateur radio. The club organizes regular training sessions, license examination sessions, and mentoring programs to help individuals obtain their amateur radio licenses. By fostering a supportive learning environment, VARC encourages newcomers to explore the technical and operational aspects of amateur radio and helps them integrate into the larger amateur radio community.

In addition to educational initiatives, VARC organizes a range of activities and events throughout the year. These include field days, contests, public demonstrations, and community outreach programs. The club often collaborates with local organizations and participates in emergency preparedness drills to showcase the vital role amateur radio plays in times of crisis.

Furthermore, VARC maintains and operates multiple repeaters to facilitate communication among members and provide a reliable platform for experimentation and exploration. The club actively encourages members to engage in antenna building, equipment modifications, and other technical projects to enhance their understanding of radio technology.

The Valdosta Amateur Radio Club’s dedication to promoting amateur radio, fostering education, and creating a strong sense of community has made it a respected and influential organization. Through its various initiatives, VARC continues to inspire and support amateur radio enthusiasts, ensuring the growth and longevity of the hobby in the Valdosta area for years to come.

Field Day 2022

We will be hosting Field Day June 25th 2022 at the WAFT Radio Station in Valdosta, GA. Field Day starts at 2:00pm and we will have drinks and pizza provided.

Address for Location is 215 Waft Hill Ln, Valdosta, GA 31602

Field Day 2021

Field Day

Come join us June 26, 2021 for Field Day! We’ll be starting at 2PM operating at WAFT. Food and drink provided. Hope to see you there!

WAFT
215 Waft Hill Ln
Valdosta, GA 31602

First-Time Exam Applicants Must Obtain FCC Registration Number before Taking Exam

SB QST @ ARL $ARLB015
ARLB015 First-Time Exam Applicants Must Obtain FCC Registration
Number before Taking Exam

ZCZC AG15
QST de W1AW  
ARRL Bulletin 15  ARLB015
From ARRL Headquarters  
Newington CT  May 7, 2021
To all radio amateurs

SB QST ARL ARLB015
ARLB015 First-Time Exam Applicants Must Obtain FCC Registration
Number before Taking Exam

Beginning May 20, 2021, all amateur examination applicants will be
required to provide an FCC Registration Number (FRN) to the
Volunteer Examiners (VEs) before taking an amateur exam. This is
necessary due to changes the FCC has made to its licensing system.

Amateur candidates who already have an FCC license, whether for
amateur radio or in another service, already have an FRN and can use
the same number. All prospective new FCC licensees, however, will be
required to obtain an FRN before the examination and provide that
number to the volunteer examiners on the Form 605 license
application. An FCC instructional video provides step-by-step
instructions on how to obtain an FRN through the FCC’s COmmission
REgistration System (CORES).

The video is available at, https://www.fcc.gov/rofrn .

The FRN is required for all new applicants to take an amateur exam
and is used afterward by the applicant to download the license
document from the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS), upgrade the
license, apply for a vanity call sign, and to submit administrative
updates (such as address and email changes) and renewal
applications.

In addition, after June 29, all applications will be required to
contain an email address for FCC correspondence. Applicants will
receive an email direct from the FCC with a link to the official
electronic copy of their license whenever a license is issued or
changed. ARRL VEC suggests that those without access to email to use
the email address of a family member or friend. Licensees will be
able to log in to the ULS using their FRN and password to download
the latest version of their license at any time. The FCC no longer
provides paper license documents.
NNNN
/EX

VARC Field Day 2019 Activities

The Valdosta Amateur Radio Club will be hosting field day activities this weekend (June 22, 2019) at 4903 Hickory Grove Road North, Valdosta, GA 31606. Prep and setup for the event begin at 10 AM and operations begin at 2 PM. There will be a dual band DMR/Analog HT Raffle and other door prizes available as well. Everyone is welcome to attend or check in via the talk in repeater at 444.700 MHz or via simplex at 146.460 Mhz. If you are planning on attending, please be sure to bring your own chairs. There will be some food provided (hot dogs, hamburgers, and some drinks), but guests can bring their own as well.