Our role
We administer amateur radio qualifications and call signs. This involves processing:
- amateur radio examination results
- ACMA recognition certificate applications
- recognition of prior learning applications
- applications to become an accredited assessor
- call sign applications.
We also:
- draft amateur radio examinations
- respond to accredited assessor enquiries
- ensure accredited assessors continue to meet their accreditation requirements.
Our priorities
Given the volume of applications we receive, we give priority to:
- applications with statutory deadlines
- applications for new operators, or for existing operators upgrading their qualifications
- support for accredited assessors to ensure examinations are conducted appropriately.
Expected timeframes
Typical processing times for results and applications are outlined in the table below.
| Process | Usual processing timeframe |
|---|---|
| Examination results | Within 2 weeks of receiving results from the accredited assessor |
| ACMA recognition certificate applications | Within 15 working days |
|
Recognition of prior learning decision (Also see Note 1) |
Up to 4 months |
|
Accredited assessor applications (Also see Note 2) |
Up to 6 months |
| Call sign applications | Within 10 working days |
Note 1: An alternative pathway to qualification is to sit an examination with an accredited assessor. These examinations are free and a faster pathway to qualification.
Note 2: Accredited assessor applications are a lower priority because over 300 accredited assessors are already available to conduct remote examinations across Australia.
Further information
These timeframes are indicative. Some applications may be processed more quickly, while others may take longer, depending on:
- their complexity
- whether all required information was provided at the time of making the application.
We generally won't start processing your application until we've received all required documents and payment.
Contact us
If your application has exceeded the indicative timeframe above, you’re welcome to contact us. Please note that applications within the timeframe listed are still in the queue and being processed.