UK Amateur Radio Licence Archive
21 Feb 2024
18 May 2021
15 Aug 2017
10 July 2017
2007
4 July 2006
lifetime_amateur_radio_licensing_-_format_of_new_licences_2006-07-04.pdf
One amateur's view of the new licence was published by the daily Southgate Amateur Radio News Service, it is available at
first_impressions_of_ofcom_amateur_licence_statement_2006-07-04.doc
Although planned to start from 1 October 2006 this licence was never issued to anyone. Significant last-minute changes were made to the licence that took effect on 1 October including permitting Foundation to use:
Amateur Satellites
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Wireless remote control of their station using a control link within a Foundation amateur band >30
MHz
Intermediate would also be permitted wireless remote control
Full holders would see the scrapping of the 100 metre restriction on wireless remote control
January 2002
November 2001
November 2000
March 1995
10 September 1984
25 June 1982
14 Aug 1977
12 September 1975
20 Feb 1969
1964
1958
1954
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The 1954 UK Amateur (Sound) Licence authorized individuals to establish and operate amateur radio transmitting and receiving stations for non-commercial, experimental purposes.
The licence specified technical restrictions, including permitted frequency bands, emission types, and power limits, and prohibited operation at sea, in moving vehicles, or aircraft.
Operators were required to use assigned call signs, follow identification procedures, and keep detailed station logs.
The licence allowed operation at a main address, temporary locations (for up to four weeks), or alternative premises with advance notice to authorities.
Only the licensee or other qualified, licensed individuals under direct supervision could operate the station.
The station, licence, and log were subject to inspection by Post Office officials, and the station could be ordered to close at any time.
The licence was valid for one year and renewable annually, but could be revoked or varied by the Postmaster-General at any time
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The 1954 UK Amateur Television (
ATV) Licence allowed licensed amateur radio operators to experiment with television transmission and reception on designated frequencies.
It regulated technical parameters such as power limits and frequency bands to prevent interference with commercial and public broadcasts.
The licence supported the growth of amateur television as a hobby and technical pursuit, reflecting post-war advances in broadcasting technology and the increasing popularity of television.
It was issued under the framework of existing wireless telegraphy laws and required compliance with government conditions to ensure responsible use of the spectrum.
1946
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The 1946 UK Amateur Wireless Licence officially permitted individuals to operate amateur radio transmitting and receiving stations under government regulation.
It set limits on transmitter power, frequency bands, and emission types, and banned outdated technologies like spark transmitters.
Operators were required to identify transmissions with assigned call signs, maintain detailed logs, and avoid causing interference with other radio services.
The licence allowed for government inspection of equipment and could be revoked if conditions were violated.
This licence reflected post-World War II efforts to regulate and modernize amateur radio, encouraging technical experimentation within a controlled and responsible framework
1938
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The 1938 UK amateur radio licence was an official government document authorizing the holder to operate an amateur radio transmitting station.
It outlined the terms and conditions for legal operation, including permitted frequencies, power limits, and identification requirements.
This licence exemplified the formal regulation of amateur radio before World War II, promoting technical experimentation while ensuring responsible and controlled use of the radio spectrum.
1923
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The 1923 Constructor's Licence for a Receiving Station in the UK allowed individuals to legally build and operate their own wireless receiving equipment at home.
This licence was distinct from the standard broadcast receiving licence, as it specifically catered to hobbyists and experimenters who wanted to construct their own sets rather than purchase factory-made, BBC-approved receivers.
The licence imposed conditions to prevent interference with other stations and required compliance with technical and operational rules.
It reflected the growing interest in radio as a hands-on hobby and marked an important step in supporting technical experimentation by amateurs in the early days of British broadcasting.
1922
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The 1922 Wireless Broadcast Receiving Licence was introduced in the UK to permit individuals to legally own and use a radio receiver for listening to broadcasts.
Issued by the British Post Office, the licence cost 10 shillings per year and was required for all radio receivers, which had to be approved and marked with the BBC logo.
The fee helped fund the newly established British Broadcasting Company (BBC), making it possible to provide public radio broadcasts without relying on commercial advertising.
The licence strictly covered reception (not transmission) and came with regulations on equipment and use.
1907
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The 1907 UK Amateur Radio Licence document is the earliest known license for amateur radio operation in the UK.
It was issued by the Postmaster General to regulate and permit experimental wireless telegraphy by private individuals.
The licence set out conditions to prevent interference with official and commercial communications and marked the formal beginning of regulated amateur radio activity in the UK