Form 605: FCC Basic Qualification Question

Overview

The FCC Basic Qualification section of Form 605 (FCC, NCVEC, and Club) includes a mandatory question about whether the applicant has been convicted of a felony in any state or federal court. Applicants answering “Yes” must provide an explanation directly to the FCC.

This requirement helps the FCC assess the applicant’s eligibility to hold or own a station license, as outlined in §§ 310(d) and 308(b) of the Communications Act of 1934. Only applicants filing Form 605 for specific purposes—New, Amendment, Modification (Upgrade or Call Sign Change), Renewal Only, or Renewal/Modification—are required to answer this question.

Applicants using Form 605 for any other purpose are not required to respond to this question.

    If You Answer “YES” to the Basic Qualification Question:

    Do not present any documents related to the Basic Qualification Question at the exam session or to the exam team.
    Candidates must submit their explanation directly to the FCC via email:

    The following details are recommended for your explanation:

    • List of felony charges (mandatory).
    • Detailed description of the conduct, including time and place.
    • Date of the conviction or guilty plea.
    • Punishment imposed and current status (e.g., completed sentence or ongoing conditions).
    • Steps taken to prevent future misconduct.

    Confidentiality Note:
    If you do not request confidential treatment, your explanation will be publicly viewable in the FCC’s Universal Licensing System (ULS).

    To request confidentiality:

    • Attach a separate request specifying the reasons for confidentiality.
    • Identify the portions of the explanation to remain confidential.
    • Marking the document “Confidential” alone is not sufficient.

    Email your explanation with the FCC application file number to attach605@fcc.gov.

    Find your file number using the FCC Application Search Tool. The file number will also be included on the email you receive from the FCC

        14-Day Filing Window

        Applicants must provide their explanation to the FCC within 14 days of the application submission date.
        Failure to do so may result in dismissal of the application. If dismissed:

          Privacy Notice

          The FCC collects and makes publicly available certain information submitted with Amateur Radio license applications. For details, review the FCC Licensee Privacy Statement.