Licensing privileges

An amateur radio license grants its bearer many privileges in the use of radio frequency spectrum not available to those without a license. The bearer of an amateur radio license may transmit and conduct two-way communications on "bands" of radio frequencies that are either designated for the exclusive use of licensed amateur radio operators or where amateur radio operations are permitted to share the spectrum with other licensed services (such as short wave broadcasters, military stations, or land mobile services). Depending on the license class, an operator or station licensed in one country is generally allowed to communicate directly with similarly licensed amateur radio operators and stations in other countries.

In most countries, an amateur radio license issued to an individual assigns a call sign to that individual. An amateur radio operator uses a call sign on the air to legally identify the operator or station during any and all radio communication. In some countries, the call sign assigned to the station must always be used, whereas in other countries, the call sign of either the operator or the station may be used.

In most countries, an amateur radio license grants permission to the license holder to own, modify, and operate equipment that is not certified by a governmental regulatory agency. This encourages amateur radio operators to experiment with home-constructed or modified equipment. The use of such equipment must still satisfy national and international standards on spurious emissions.

The amount of output power and amateur radio licensee may legally use varies from country to country. For example, the highest license classes are permitted: 2 kilowatts in most countries of the former Yugoslavia, 1.5 kilowatts in the United States, 1 kilowatt in Belgium and Switzerland, 750 watts in Germany, 500 watts in Italy, 400 watts in India, Singapore, Australia & United Kingdom, and 150 watts in Oman. Lower license classes are often restricted to lower power limits. For example, the foundation license class in the United Kingdom has a limit of just 10 watts.

Output power may also depend on the mode of transmission. In Australia, for example, although 400w Peak Envelope Power may be used for SSB transmissions, FM and other modes are limited to 120 watts.