This page covers the parts of ExamTools that applicants interact with directly: finding a session, registering, entering your PIN, and using the online exam interface.
For anything not covered here — timing, location, what to bring, results, paperwork — contact the VE team running your session. Their contact information is in the confirmation email you received when you registered. Every team runs their sessions differently, and only they can answer questions specific to your exam.
Finding a session
Upcoming exam sessions are listed at ham.study/sessions. You can filter by date, location, and session type (in-person or remote).
Each listing shows the hosting team’s contact information. If you have questions before registering, reach out to them directly.
Registering
Click Register on the session listing that works for you. You will typically be asked for:
- Your name
- Your mailing address
- Your FRN (FCC Registration Number) — required if you already hold a license
- Your current callsign, if you have one
After registering you will receive a confirmation email. That email contains the team’s contact information — save it, as it is your primary point of contact for anything related to your session.
If you need to cancel or have questions about your registration, contact the team directly using the information in your confirmation email. ExamTools support cannot modify session registrations on a team’s behalf.
Your exam PIN
A PIN is a short numeric code that connects you to your specific exam in the ExamTools system.
How you get it: Your PIN is provided by a Volunteer Examiner at your session, either in person or via the session’s communication channel. It is not sent in advance.
How you use it: When you open the exam interface, you will be prompted to enter your PIN before the exam loads. Type it exactly as given and press Enter or tap Submit.
If your PIN doesn’t work:
- Double-check the digits — PINs are case-insensitive but must be entered accurately
- Ask a VE to confirm the PIN or issue a new one
- Make sure you are on the correct exam URL for your session
The exam interface
The ExamTools exam interface runs in a web browser — no app installation required.
Navigating questions:
- Questions are displayed one at a time
- Use Previous and Next to move through the exam
- Your answers are saved automatically as you go
Reviewing and submitting:
- You can revisit any question before submitting
- When you are satisfied with your answers, click Submit Exam
- You will be asked to confirm before the exam is finalized
After you submit: A summary screen shows your responses. Your VEs will review the result and inform you whether you passed. Do not close the browser until a VE has confirmed they have your results.
After the exam
If you pass, your VEs will complete the application paperwork and submit it to the FCC. Processing time at the FCC varies — you can check your application status at any time at fcc.gov/uls.
For questions about your application status or when your callsign will appear in the FCC database, contact your VE team or the VEC they operate under.
Still have questions?
Contact the VE team you registered with. They are your best resource for anything related to your specific session.