ARRL Technician Practice Exam

Which agency oversees and enforces the rules for the Amateur Radio Service in the United States?

1. The FCC

2. The ARRL

3. The NTIA

4. The Homeland Security Department

The correct answer is: The FCC

The correct answer is the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). The FCC is the U.S. government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. This includes overseeing and enforcing the rules specifically for the Amateur Radio Service. The FCC establishes the regulations that govern the operation of amateur radio stations, including frequency allocation, licensing, and operational limits. Additionally, it addresses any violations of these rules and enforces penalties when necessary. The other agencies mentioned, such as the ARRL (American Radio Relay League), the NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information Administration), and the Department of Homeland Security, play different roles in telecommunications or public safety, but they do not have the regulatory enforcement authority over amateur radio as the FCC does. The ARRL, for instance, is more of an advocacy group for amateur radio operators, while the NTIA manages federal spectrum usage.