HAM license question

[multipass]

Alrite i got thinking of maybe getting HAM radio operation license over her,e maybe only foundation for now, depends on what i can get done and when.

The question is though, would i have to retake the exam in the USA or could i transmit in the USA even though i did my examination for my license in the UK?

[Doctor Jest]

Yes, you could operate in the USA, since the UK has an agreement with the USA (as do many other countries) that allows this. Many countries allow "reciprocal operating privileges." That means a USA license could be used in another country, or vice-versa. But it depends on the country. Some countries have treaties with the USA and it's a piece of cake...others, it's more difficult.
From the ARRL web site:

How does a foreign amateur obtain permission to operate in the US?

The FCC allows amateurs who are citizens of their home country to operate in the US provided that there is a reciprocal operating agreement between the US and the foreign country. The foreign amateur must carry two items when operating in the US:


1) Proof of an amateur license issued by the country of citizenship;
2) Proof of citizenship in that same country.


The foreign amateur must maintain his or her citizenship in their home country and the individual must also hold an amateur license from that country. There is no time limit on how long a foreign amateur can operate in the US as long as the foreign amateur maintains home country citizenship and an amateur license from that same country...
Foreign Amateurs who wish to operate in the US may do so if the country of which they are a citizen and amateur licensee has entered into a bilateral or multilateral reciprocal operating agreement with the US. No additional permit is required -- simply bring your original amateur license, issued by your home country when you visit the US; and be sure to identify your station while operating by the US call district identifier (e.g., followed by your non-US call sign.W3/G1ABC).

The USA does have this agreement with the UK, so it's cool. Come on over!

[multipass]

Thanks for that info man. Though would i need to get a US license when i obtain citizenship and so forth wehn i move to the US i the first place?

[Doctor Jest]

If you are in the USA as a citizen of a foreign country, you can operate under the reciprocal agreement using your original callsign, since the UK has an agreement with the USA.

You can be content with that or take the test(s) to get a USA license. You do not have to be a citizen of the USA to get an amateur radio license here. The only stipulation is that you cannot be a representative of a foreign government - you're not a diplomat, are you?

If you live in the USA and eventually get your citizenship, you can no longer operate under the reciprocal agreement. You lose that license and must test to get a USA license.

[multipass]

Thanks for clearing that up man. just want to be sure with all that jazz so i don't mess up and get in trouble.