How to Print and Manage Your FCC License After Approval

FCC Approval Emails Contain Instructions for Next Steps

Does the FCC let me know when my application packet has been approved?  

The FCC will email you once your application is approved. Be sure to check your junk or spam folder regularly to avoid missing important communications. 

Upon receipt, you will be able to print your license off through their website. The FCC does applications in batches; you will be able to view your license the day it was approved or the day after in your account. 

Here is an example of their approval email: 

Is there an issuance fee with the FCC?

Upon successful approval of the applicant's license with the FCC, applicants will receive an email from the FCC. The applicant will have 10 days to pay the FCC an issuance fee ($35 for most applications) to finalize their license, per the instructions in the FCC’s email.  

How can I print off my FCC license?  

Per Public Notice DA 15-72, the FCC no longer mails official licenses. You must print a copy yourself:

• If you provided an email address on your application, you will receive a link to print your official license once it is granted

  • Check your junk or spam folder in case the email is filtered incorrectly

• You can also log into the Universal Licensing System (ULS) to download and print your license

Can I operate and/or maintain while my FCC license application is pending?

A person who has applied for a commercial operator license with the FCC, and who holds a Proof of Passing Certificate(s) indicating that he or she passed the requisite examination(s) within the previous 365 days, is authorized to exercise the rights and privileges of the applied-for operator license during the period before the FCC acts on the application, but only for 90 days from the date the application was filed, provided that the applicant has not had a commercial radio operator license revoked or suspended in the past, and is not the subject of an ongoing suspension proceeding. 

What if I need to renew my license or replace my FCC commercial radio operator license?

Use the FCC Form 605 and the FCC Form 159 (fee processing form) to renew your license or to replace a lost, stolen, or mutilated license.

How can I request a name change on my FCC license?  

If you change your name, you must apply for a replacement license in your new legal name. Be sure to indicate the reason for your application and give both your former and new legal names. 

Am I required to post my FCC commercial radio operator license or permit?  

If you are employed at a station where your operator license must be posted, you may post either your proof of passing certificate or a signed copy of your renewal application instead of your license while your application for license renewal is being processed.