RIC-3 — Information on the Amateur Radio Service

Foreword

The Radiocommunication Regulations describe the amateur radio service as a "radiocommunication service in which radio apparatus are used for the purpose of self-training, intercommunication or technical investigation by individuals who are interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without pecuniary interest."

The Department of Industry believes that amateur radio should be readily accessible to Canadians, so that those who are interested in the science and art of radiocommunication may avail themselves of every reasonable opportunity to learn, enjoy, contribute or participate in this service. The necessity for operators to have some technical and operating knowledge before being allowed access to amateur radio bands is a well established and internationally recognized principle.

To learn more about amateur radio in Canada, we encourage contacting local amateur radio clubs or one of the following organizations:

Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC)
720 Belfast Road, Suite 217
Ottawa, Ontario
K1G 0Z5
Telephone: 613-244-4367
Fax: 613-244-4369
Email: rachq@rac.ca

Radio Amateur du Québec (RAQI)
4545 Pierre-de-Coubertin Avenue
P.O. Box 1000, Station M
Montréal, Quebec
H1V 3R2
Telephone: 514-252-3012
Fax: 514-254-9971
Email: raqi@sympatico.ca

Industry Canada's Amateur Radio Service Centre is responsible nationally for all amateur licensing, certification and examiner accreditation. The processing centre should be the first point of contact concerning all amateur matters. Correspondence and enquiries should be directed to:

Amateur Radio Service Centre
Industry Canada
P.O. Box 9654
Postal Station T
Ottawa, Ontario
K1G 6K9
Toll free: 888-780-3333
Fax: 613-998-5919
Email: spectrum.amateur@ic.gc.ca

Purpose

This circular describes, in general terms, procedures, policies and general information concerning the amateur radio service. Also, included are syllabuses for Amateur Radio Operator Certificate qualification examinations.