Amateur Radio FAQ

What is Amateur Radio in Bangladesh?

Amateur Radio (also known as Ham Radio) in Bangladesh is a government-licensed, non-commercial radio communication service that allows individuals to communicate locally and internationally using radio frequencies for education, emergency response, experimentation, and public service.

Who regulates Amateur Radio in Bangladesh?

Amateur Radio in Bangladesh is regulated by:

  • Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) – licensing and regulatory authority

  • Amateur Radio Society of Bangladesh (ARSB) – national amateur radio organization for training, advocacy, and emergency communication

Who can apply for an Amateur Radio license in Bangladesh?

Any Bangladeshi citizen who:

  • Is 12 years or older

  • Passes the Amateur Radio examination

  • Meets BTRC regulatory requirements

No engineering or technical degree is required.

What is an S21 callsign in Bangladesh?

All licensed Amateur Radio operators in Bangladesh receive a unique callsign starting with “S21”, which identifies the operator internationally.

Example: S21ABC

What types of Amateur Radio licenses are available in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh generally issues:

  • Restricted Grade License – VHF/UHF bands for local communication

  • General Grade License – HF, VHF, and UHF bands for international communication

Higher license grades provide access to more frequencies and higher transmit power.

What subjects are included in the Ham Radio exam in Bangladesh?

The Amateur Radio exam typically covers:

  • Basic electronics and radio theory

  • Amateur Radio operating procedures

  • Antenna fundamentals

  • Safety and interference prevention

  • National and international radio regulations

  • Morse code (if applicable for higher grades)

How to get an Amateur Radio license in Bangladesh?

Step-by-step process:

  1. Study Amateur Radio fundamentals

  2. Apply for the Amateur Radio examination

  3. Pass the written and/or practical tests

  4. Submit required documents to BTRC

  5. Receive your S21 callsign

  6. Register approved radio equipment

ARSB provides guidance and training support.

What radio equipment is allowed in Bangladesh?

Licensed operators may use:

  • VHF/UHF handheld radios

  • Base station radios

  • Mobile radios

  • HF transceivers

  • Approved antennas

⚠️ All equipment must comply with BTRC-approved frequencies and power limits.

Is Ham Radio legal in Bangladesh without a license?

❌ No.
Operating or transmitting on Amateur Radio frequencies without a valid license is illegal and may result in fines, equipment seizure, or legal action.

Can Amateur Radio be used for business or commercial purposes?

❌ No.
Amateur Radio is strictly non-commercial and non-encrypted.

It cannot be used for:

  • Business communication

  • Paid services

  • Security operations

  • Political activities

Does Amateur Radio work without internet or mobile networks?

✅ Yes.
Amateur Radio operates independently of:

  • Internet

  • Mobile networks

  • Telephone systems

It remains functional during power outages using battery or solar power.

Why is Amateur Radio important for emergency communication in Bangladesh?

Amateur Radio plays a crucial role during:

  • Cyclones

  • Floods

  • Earthquakes

  • Network and power failures

Ham radio operators often provide the only reliable communication during disasters.

Can Bangladeshi Amateur Radio operators communicate internationally?

Yes.
With a General Grade license, operators can communicate worldwide, promoting:

  • International goodwill

  • Technical knowledge exchange

  • Emergency cooperation

What is ARSB and why should I join?

The Amateur Radio Society of Bangladesh (ARSB):

  • Offers Amateur Radio training and exam preparation

  • Organizes emergency drills and field activities

  • Represents Bangladesh in global amateur radio forums

  • Supports new and experienced operators nationwide

Joining ARSB is strongly recommended for all ham radio enthusiasts.

How much does it cost to start Amateur Radio in Bangladesh?

Amateur Radio is affordable:

  • License and exam fees are minimal

  • Entry-level radios are low-cost

  • Learning resources are widely available

It is one of the most cost-effective technical hobbies.

Is Amateur Radio good for students in Bangladesh?

Yes. Amateur Radio helps students develop:

  • STEM and electronics skills

  • Communication discipline

  • Emergency preparedness

  • Leadership and teamwork

  • Global exposure

Many engineers, scientists, and astronauts began as Amateur Radio operators.

How to get started with Ham Radio in Bangladesh?

To begin:

  • Study Amateur Radio basics

  • Contact Amateur Radio Society of Bangladesh (ARSB)

  • Prepare for the BTRC Amateur Radio examination

  • Apply for your S21 callsign

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