FCC Licensing Quick Start
CORES - If you need to set up a new login to the FCC website - or manage your existing Login - or reset your password Select CORES
ULS - If you need to get a new license, or renew an existing one - or just get a printout of it select ULS
FEES - If you need to pay fees for a new license or renewal select FEES
This is just a document to help you get started
If you run into problems – call the FCC at Phone: 1-877-480-3201
CORES - COmmission REgistration System for the FCC
NEW: If you would like to see the FCC's Video tutorials for the new CORES system, they can be found here
To create a username account GO HERE
TUTORIAL LINK https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/html/Register_New_Account.htm
Note: you really want to do this on a laptop/desktop computer - Phones have limited browser implementation and you might have problems. You need to be able to log onto your email on the computer
HINT: Write your password down!
If you do not have an FRN – GO HERE , log in with your USERNAME account and click on Register New FRN on the menu to create one.
If you know your FRN number (it is on the license) and the password or Personal security question / answer GO HERE and log in with your new USERNAME account and then click on Associate Username to FRN
TUTORIAL LINK Associate Username to an existing FRN
Note: IF you do not remember your Security question for the FRN GO HERE to set a new one – This will take a few days to update.
If you already have a license, you already have an FRN assigned to the license - if you do not remember the number. GO HERE and click on the SEARCH button to find it. (It is also on your copy of your license)
Your FRN can also be found if you search with your callsign HERE.
To register for a FCC username account, licensees should follow the instructions provided here: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/html/Register_New_Account.htm.
Forgot/Reset your Username Password?
Licensees and their representatives may temporarily access CORES with their FRN by visiting: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/paymentFrnLogin.do
ULS – Universal License System
NOTE: log in with your FRN and the password from your username account. All applications are processed in an overnight batch. You will receive an email with a link to the license after that.
NEW license – GMRS (ZA), Restricted Radio operator permit (RR), Ship Station License /MMSI (SA – SB ship), Aircraft License (AC) - GO HERE, Log on with you FRN number and the password from your username. Then select Apply for a New License and select the two-letter code from list above.
RENEW a license. GO HERE, Log on with you FRN number and the password from your username. if your license is in the renewal period there with be a renew link on the right-hand side of the screen. Click on it to start the process.
NOTE: The renewal window for a license starts 90 days before it expires. Only amateur licenses have a two-year grace period to renew and not have to re-test.
UPDATE – change address, email, phone number, etc. GO HERE, Log on with you FRN number and the password from your username. On the right in the Work On this license box – select update and complete the application. The changes will be posted in the overnight batch and you will receive an email with a link to download the changed license.
Download copy of license - GO HERE, Log on with you FRN number and the password from your USERNAME. In the Green box just under your license callsign click the here link to start the process.
FEES – CORES system
To pay for new amateur license fees or if you are interrupted before you get a chance to pay for other kinds of applications. GO HERE and log in with your username and password (see above if you need one) select the
Manage Existing FRNs | FRN Financial | Bills and Fees -
FRN Financial you should see your FRN details and a link to make payments
View/Make Payments
Click on the AWAITING PAYMENT COMPLETION tab
You should see your fee and continue to make payment