W3HF Callbook and Callsign FAQ

Here's what I think happened with regards to the credits for the code test and Element 3. This is purely my own speculation, and is not based on the inputs of any other individual. But to me, it is the only logical explanation for the seemingly illogical rules, like giving Element 3 credit to former Techs but not any other license class. I believe the FCC had two specific intents as part of the April 2000 license restructuring action in granting credit for old licenses: 1. They wanted to give credit to anyone who had ever passed a 5 wpm code test. 2. They had to continue to give credit to pre-1987 Technicians who had already passed the General written test. The FCC's intent in #1 was to simplify the testing process as much as possible. Whether or not we agree with it, they were de-emphasizing the code, making it a "once-in-a-lifetime" test. If you had ever passed the 5 wpm test, you could claim credit. They did this by effectively making the credit for 5 wpm permanent. Interestingly, they didn't make the credit for 13 or 20 wpm permanent. This may have been an oversight, at the time, but it was corrected as of 15 December 2006 with R&O 06-149, and then made obsolete a couple of months later.  The intent in #2 was to "grandfather" old Techs who had already passed the General written test. (Remember that prior to March 1987, the written test for the Tech license was the same as that for the General license.) This was the rule that existed from 1987 until restructuring, and it was only fair that it continue. But I think they missed a requirement here. Prior to 15 April 2000, the applicant had to have continuously maintained that Technician license in order to claim credit. I believe the FCC did not really intend to change that portion of the requirement, but inadvertantly omitted that wording in the final Report and Order. Once the R&O was issued, making a change would have required another full rules-making process, and that was deemed too difficult for such a minor correction. Although comments submitted after the rules came out pointed out the inconsistencies above (not granting code credit for 13 and 20 wpm tests, and not granting Element 3 credit to former Generals, Advanceds and Extras who had passed the test), the deed was already done. So we are left with a silly set of rules. Fortunately, they really don't "penalize" anyone--they simply grant "bonus" credit to those who meet the narrow definition (Technician only) and can provide proof. return to FAQ6 return to FAQ:

This page updated on 30 August 2007