Put Away the Checkbook (For Now)

 

The FCC is not yet collecting the newly-enacted $35 fee for most amateur license applications. According to the ARRL Letter, the original effective date of the new fees has been delayed until at least this summer, and only after "requisite notice has been provided to Congress, the FCC's information technology systems and internal procedures have been updated, and the Commission publishes notice(s) in the Federal Register announcing the effective date." 

Once in effect, the fee will apply to all new and upgraded licenses, renewals, call sign changes and other less-common applications. Purely administrative changes, such as a change of mailing or email address, will not be charged the new fee. Note: The ARRL says the license fees will not be collected at license exam sessions, but rather will be paid separately, directly to the FCC. Exam fees will still apply for those Volunteer Examiner Coordinators that charge them.