Understanding the General Exam #
The US General Class Question Pool #
The General Class License exam is Element 3, based on the question pool valid from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2027.
The Numbers #
- Format: 35 multiple-choice questions
- Pool Size: 423 active questions in this edition
- Passing Score: 26 correct answers (74%)
You’ll see 35 questions on your exam: one from each of the pool’s 35 question groups, which are organized into 10 subelements (major topics). These pool groups are different from the teaching sections in this book. This is the same structure as the Technician exam, but the topics dive deeper into technical concepts and focus heavily on HF (High Frequency) operations.
All questions and correct answers are publicly available. Corrections and withdrawals can occur during a pool’s four-year term, so check the NCVEC General pool page and select the pool that will be in effect on your exam date. The operating rules can also change during that period; Chapter 9 points out rule changes that affect this pool, including the 2026 update on 60 meters. The latest version of this book is available at hambook.org.
Why the Pool Covers So Much #
One license supports many different interests. Someone who enjoys building circuits needs different skills from someone organizing an emergency net or trying digital modes. The exam introduces those different areas while giving everyone a shared foundation in radio, operating practices, and safety.
You may not use every topic right away. Learn the basics across the pool, then spend more time on the subjects that interest you or help with your plans. You can return to other topics as your interests grow.
What the Studying Involves #
If you passed the Technician exam, you have a useful foundation for General. The concepts build logically on what you already know. For example:
- Technician: Introduced basic components like resistors and capacitors.
- General: Explains how these components work together in simple circuits like filters and oscillators.
- Technician: Covered basic antenna types.
- General: Discusses antenna matching, SWR, and feed lines in more detail.
Some questions ask you to use a formula, convert units, or calculate values such as resistance and power. The book includes worked examples so you can follow each step. There is no Morse code proficiency test, although the pool includes questions about CW (Morse code) operating practices.
Remember, you only need 74% to pass. Even if some advanced circuit theory feels overwhelming, strong answers on operating rules, safety, and propagation can help make up for a few missed questions. You can miss as many as nine and still pass.