Identification (ID)

ID Requirements for Your Online Ham Radio Exam

Bring acceptable identification to your WEARC online amateur radio exam. Having the correct ID ready, with your name spelled exactly the same as the information you entered into ExamTools during registration, helps save time during the session.

Photo ID Non-photo ID options Minor candidate rules
Quick answer

Most candidates need one legal photo ID

ARRL VEC guidance says a candidate may use one acceptable legal photo ID. If no photo ID is available, two accepted non-photo forms of identification may be used instead.

Students and minors without photo ID have a special identification option described below.

Accepted photo identification

One legal photo ID

ARRL lists the following as acceptable legal photo identification:

  • State driver's license.
  • Government-issued passport.
  • Military or law-enforcement officer photo ID card.
  • Student school photo ID card.
  • State photo ID card.
If you do not have photo ID

Use two accepted non-photo forms of identification

If no photo ID is available, ARRL allows two forms of identification from the following types:

  • Non-photo state ID card.
  • Birth certificate with the appropriate seal.
  • Social Security card.
  • Employer wage statement or a minor's work permit.
  • School ID card.
  • School or public library card.
  • Utility bill, bank statement, or other business correspondence that specifically names the candidate.
  • A postmarked envelope addressed to the candidate at the current mailing address shown on Form 605.
Students and minors

Minor candidate ID requirements

A student or minor who does not have photo ID may use one of the accepted non-photo identification items above if a legal guardian presents their own photo ID. If a legal guardian does not present photo ID, the student or minor must provide two accepted non-photo forms of identification.

Source: These identification requirements are based on ARRL VEC guidance. For additional details or changes to ARRL requirements, review ARRL — What to Bring to an Exam Session.
Full preparation

Online exam checklist

Review the complete WEARC device, room, and exam-day requirements.

View the online exam checklist

What to bring

Other exam-day items

See the separate WEARC guide for FRN, CSCE, and equipment reminders.

View what to bring

Questions

Exam FAQ

Find answers about registration, international candidates, exam fees, and other common questions.

Read the FAQ