FCC Not Processing New License Applications
04/27/2022
On Wednesday, April 27, in a notice to all VECs, the FCC again asked them to refrain from submitting any amateur radio exam session or license application files while the Commission works to resolve an issue with the Universal Licensing System (ULS) application filing system.
The ULS application filing system was not functioning properly last week and then the FCC indicated the problem was resolved, as previously reported by ARRL.
However, this was not the case, as no new amateur radio call signs and licenses have been issued since Monday, April 18, 2022.
Tuesday, April 19 is the day the FCC application fees became effective for amateur radio.
ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM, reports that new call signs are not being assigned by the FCC even if the applicant has paid the FCC application fee.
The FCC was processing upgrade applications through the system without an issue because there are no fees required for those applications.
In addition to new call signs not being issued even if the applicant has paid the FCC fee, some applicants are also having issues paying and logging into the system.
Other types of license application transactions may also be experiencing problems. Applicants should expect delays with license, call sign, and application processing associated with individuals and amateur radio clubs.
Amateur radio license filings are currently on hold until further notice and FCC did not estimate how long the system would be down.
We will update the public as information from the FCC becomes available.
