Ham Radio General Class Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

The authority to determine what constitutes "good engineering and good amateur practice" for amateur stations, especially in areas not explicitly covered by FCC rules, falls primarily to the FCC. The Federal Communications Commission has the overarching responsibility for regulating the use of the radio spectrum in the United States, including amateur radio operations. This means that while amateur operators are encouraged to follow established best practices, the FCC also provides guidance on acceptable technical standards and operational conduct that aligns with good engineering practices.

In contrast, while control operators are responsible for the operation of an amateur station and ensuring that it is compliant with regulations, they do not have the authority to set standards independently. Professional organizations like the IEEE may contribute insights and technical standards, but they do not govern amateur radio practices. The ITU sets international telecommunications standards, but for amateur radio operations in the U.S., it is the FCC that holds regulatory authority. Consequently, when looking for a definitive source for what constitutes good engineering and good amateur practice, the FCC is the correct answer.