The UK amateur radio exams: Foundation, Intermediate and Full
How the three RSGB exams work, what each licence lets you do, and how the questions are spread across the syllabus.
The exams at a glance
| Level | Questions | Time | Pass mark | Max power (most bands) | Formula sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | 26 | 60 min | 19 (73%) | 25 W | None provided |
| Intermediate | 46 | 90 min | 28 (61%) | 100 W | Provided |
| Full | 58 | 120 min | 35 (60%) | 1000 W | Provided, not labelled |
From the RSGB Combined Syllabus Specification v1.6b (March 2026) and Ofcom's licence conditions (February 2024). Power is peak envelope power; some bands have lower limits, set out in Schedule 1 of each licence.
Where the questions come from
The RSGB sets how many questions come from each section of the syllabus. Our mock exams use the same split.
| Section | Foundation | Intermediate | Full |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Licensing and station identification | 6 | 6 | 7 |
| 2. Technical aspects | 3 | 14 | 11 |
| 3. Transmitters and receivers | 3 | 7 | 12 |
| 4. Feeders and antennas | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| 5. Propagation | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| 6. Electromagnetic compatibility | 3 | 4 | 10 |
| 7. Operating practices | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| 8. Safety | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| 9. Measurements and construction | – | 3 | 5 |
What changed in 2024 and 2025
Ofcom's February 2024 licence raised Foundation to 25 W and Intermediate to 100 W. Stations must be clearly identifiable at all times, with the call sign given as often as practicable; there's no longer a fixed interval. Logs are needed only if Ofcom asks for one. Ofcom's October 2025 guidance brought new call sign blocks, including M8 and M9 for Intermediate, and limited everyone to one personal licence.
Common questions
Do I need a licence to listen?
No. Anyone may listen to amateur radio. You need a licence, and so an exam pass, to transmit.
How are the exams taken?
Normally online, either at an exam centre or remotely with an invigilator watching by webcam. You get a provisional result at the end, normally confirmed within six working days. Check the RSGB website for booking and current rules.
What are the current Intermediate call signs?
Ofcom now issues Intermediate call signs starting M8 and M9. Older Intermediate call signs start with 2 followed by a letter, and a regional secondary locator must be used with those.
See how ready you are
Try free questions, one from each section of the syllabus.