Mobile Amateur Radio Operators

Alaska law allows licensed amateur (ham) radio operators to register their vehicles with distinctive license plates that display their official FCC call sign. These plates recognize the important role amateur radio operators play in emergency communication and service to the public.

Who Qualifies?

You may register your vehicle as an Amateur Mobile Radio Station Vehicle if you:

• Hold a valid, unexpired FCC amateur radio operator’s license (any renewable class).

• Provide proof that your vehicle contains or carries an amateur radio transceiver and receiver appropriate to your license class.

• Are legally permitted to operate a fixed station under your FCC license.

Equipment Requirements

The benefits of amateur radio plates depend on the type of equipment installed in your vehicle:

Standard Amateur Radio Plates

• If your vehicle has a transceiver capable of less than 5-band operation, you may register for amateur radio plates.

• Normal registration fees apply (same as standard vehicle registration).

Public Service Recognition (Fee Exemption)

If you hold a General Class or higher FCC amateur license and your vehicle is equipped with a full amateur mobile radio station, you may qualify for no registration fee.

To qualify, your vehicle must be:

• Capable of operating on at least five bands from 160 through 10 meters.

• Equipped with a permanent antenna.

• Equipped with a permanently installed power supply and wiring.

• The transmitter may be removed only for service or storage.

• Even if exempt from registration fees, your vehicle may still be subject to the Motor Vehicle Registration Tax (MVRT) based on your registered address.

  Plate Design

  • Amateur radio plates are issued with a distinctive design.

  • The plate number is your official FCC call sign.

  How to Apply

  1. Complete a standard vehicle registration application.

  2. Provide your valid FCC amateur radio license.

  3. Provide documentation showing your vehicle’s radio equipment (if applying for fee exemption).

  4. Request amateur radio plates when registering your vehicle.

  Key Points to Remember

  • You may register one vehicle per FCC license you hold.

  • If your FCC license expires or is revoked, your vehicle will no longer qualify for amateur radio plates.

  • MVRT may still apply, even if you qualify for the registration fee exemption.