First US federal licensing of amateur radio operators and stations

The first U.S. federal licensing of amateur radio operators and stations began with the enactment of the Radio Act of 1912. This legislation required all radio transmitters and operators to be licensed by the Department of Commerce. The Act mandated that amateur radio operators pass a proficiency test demonstrating their technical knowledge and ability to send and receive Morse code. Additionally, amateurs were assigned specific frequency bands to avoid interference with commercial and military communications. This licensing system marked the start of regulated amateur radio operations in the United States, ensuring that operators were qualified and that their activities did not disrupt essential communication services.