Novice, Technician, and Amateur Extra licenses announced by FCC

In 1951, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the introduction of three new amateur radio license classes: Novice, Technician, and Amateur Extra. The Novice license was designed for beginners, providing an entry-level opportunity to explore the hobby with limited operating privileges and requiring basic Morse code proficiency. The Technician license offered a step up, allowing more extensive operating privileges on VHF and UHF frequencies, encouraging experimentation with new technologies. The Amateur Extra license was aimed at the most advanced operators, granting full operating privileges across all amateur bands and requiring a high level of technical knowledge and proficiency. These new license classes broadened access to amateur radio, promoting growth, innovation, and skill development within the community.