Curious about the FCC radiotelephone operator permit?
Becoming a pilot takes a lot of work, just ask anyone that is currently in training. For those who are trying to become airline pilots have an even longer and more complicated journey. Just look up the requirements for any major airline and you will soon understand what we mean.
This article is dedicated to one of those requirements that is not a huge focus for many pilots until they get curious or when it sneaks up on them. The requirement that we are talking about is normally at the bottom of application requirements and is known as a FCC restricted radiotelephone operator permit. What the heck is it? Do you need one? If so, why do you need one?
Some of you may have never heard of this requirement and others may have just saw it for the first time and were curious about what it even is. In this article we will get into the details of the permit and make sure your questions are answered so that you can be fully prepared for your airline applications.
FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator's Permit
What is a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit?
The Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, commonly referred to as the RR Operator Permit, is a license issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that authorizes individuals to operate certain radio equipment on behalf of a licensed radio station. This permit is required for any individual who operates aircraft, ship, or coast station radio equipment, as well as marine utility stations, including but not limited to, fishing vessels, and other commercial vessels that use radios.
The RR Operator Permit is different from other FCC licenses such as the General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL), which permits the holder to operate all commercial radio equipment. The RR Operator Permit is restricted and authorizes the operator to communicate only on specific radio frequencies and services. The RR Operator Permit is not required for personal use of radio equipment, such as citizens band (CB) radios or amateur radio (ham) equipment.
To obtain an RR Operator Permit, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of radio operation and regulations by passing a written exam administered by the FCC or an approved third-party organization. Once obtained, the permit is valid for ten years, after which it must be renewed.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Do I Qualify for the FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit?
To qualify, you must:
- 18 years of age
- pass an exam administered by the FCC
- be either a legal resident of (or otherwise eligible for employment in) the United States or hold an aircraft pilot certificate valid in the United States or hold an FCC radio station in your own name; and
- be able to speak and hear; and
- be able to keep at least a rough written log; and
- be familiar with provisions of applicable treaties, laws and rules which govern the radio station you will operate.
If you are a non-resident alien you must hold one of the following three documents to be eligible for an RP:
- a valid United States pilot certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration; or
- a foreign aircraft pilot certificate which is valid in the United States on the basis of reciprocal agreements with foreign governments; or
- a valid radio station license issued by the FCC in your own name. (An RP issued on this basis will authorize you to operate your own station only.)
FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit for Pilots
Pilots who operate aircraft radio equipment are required to hold an FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit. This permit is necessary for pilots to communicate with air traffic control (ATC) and other pilots in flight. Pilots must pass the same written exam as other applicants to obtain the RR Operator Permit.
Application and Process
To obtain an FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, you must submit an application to the Federal Communications Commission. The process of applying for the permit and receiving it is fairly straightforward.
How to Apply for FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
To apply for the FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, follow these steps:
- Complete FCC Form 605. This form is available on the FCC’s website.
- Pay the required fee. The fee for the permit is $70.
- Submit the completed form and payment to the FCC.
The process of obtaining your own permit is quick and easy but is not the most intuitive process. Here is what you’ll need to do to get the permit.
First make sure to register with the FCC on the FCC website. Make sure to write down your FTN (the number) you will be using this on the form itself.
Next, you’ll begin the application which can be found here: Form 605
Choose the Form 605. You have the option of filing via online or manually. We’d recommend online, but it is up to you. Begin filling out the information it requests. This is where your FTN comes into play. Below is a screenshot of what you should see.
When completing the FCC Form 605, be sure to provide accurate and complete information. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may result in delays or denial of your application.
Once you are finished with the form 605 you will have to fill out a form 159 and pay a one time fee. The fee amount has changed but is typically anywhere from $60-70.
Find the Form 159 here: Form 159
Similar to the form 605, you may file online or manually. Below is an example of what you should see. If you have not at this point, you’ll most likely be required to register with the FCC.
Congratulations you are finished! It was that easy.
How to Get a FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
After submitting your application and payment, you should receive your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit within a few weeks. The permit will be mailed to the address listed on your application.
How Do I Print a FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit?
To print your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, follow these steps:
- Go to the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS) website.
- Log in using your FCC registration number (FRN) and password. If you don’t have an FRN, you will need to create one first.
- Once you are logged in, click on “My Licenses” in the menu on the left-hand side of the screen.
- Find your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit in the list of licenses and click on the “Reference Copy” button next to it.
- A PDF file of your permit will open in a new tab. From there, you can either print it directly or save it to your computer and print it later.
How to Get a Replacement FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
If your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is lost or stolen, you can obtain a replacement by submitting a written request to the FCC. Your request should include your name, address, and FCC registration number (if known).
Lost FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
If you have lost your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, you should take steps to protect yourself against identity theft. Notify the FCC immediately and request a replacement permit. You should also monitor your credit report for any unauthorized activity.
Costs and Fees
FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Cost
Before applying for the FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, it is important to be aware of the costs and fees involved. The FCC charges a fee for the application, which must be paid in full before the application is processed. The fee is subject to change, so it is recommended to check the current fee on the FCC’s website before applying.
The cost of the Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit may also vary depending on the method of preparation. Some applicants may choose to prepare for the exam through a training course or program, which may involve additional fees.
In addition, if a replacement permit is needed due to loss or damage, there may be an additional fee for processing and printing a new permit.
It is important to budget accordingly and ensure that all necessary fees are paid before applying for the FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.
Maintenance and Renewal
FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Address Change
To maintain the validity of the FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, it is important to keep the information on the permit up-to-date. If there is a change of address or other pertinent details, the permit holder must notify the FCC within 10 days of the change.
The FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Address Change form can be found on the FCC website.
FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Lookup
The FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Lookup tool can be used to verify the status and expiration date of a permit. This tool can be useful for employers or permit holders who need to confirm the validity of a permit.
Valid FCC Permit Restricted Radiotelephone Operator
The FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance. To renew the permit, the permit holder must apply for a new permit and meet all current qualifications and eligibility requirements. The renewal process is the same as the initial application process.
When Does the FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Expire?
The FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance. Before the permit expires, you will need to renew it through the FCC’s Universal Licensing System (ULS) website. You will receive a renewal reminder from the FCC approximately 90 days before your permit is due to expire. It is important to renew your permit before it expires to avoid any interruption in your ability to operate radio equipment.
