Ham Radio Extra Class Practice Test 2026 - Free Extra Class License Exam Questions and Study Guide

When operating an amateur radio station on HF bands using a wire antenna, the legal maximum power output allowed is 1,500 watts PEP (peak envelope power). This limit is set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and applies to all amateur radio operators in the United States.

The 1,500 watts PEP standard provides ample power for communication over long distances on HF frequencies while ensuring that the amateur radio service remains in harmony with other radio services and minimizes interference. Exceeding this power limit can lead to potential violations of FCC regulations, which are focused on limiting excessive interference to other users of the radio spectrum.

This legal maximum applies regardless of the type of antenna employed, including wire antennas, as the performance of the antenna (e.g., its gain and efficiency) does not alter the legal power limit set for amateur operations. Understanding this limit is crucial for all amateur operators to promote responsible and compliant use of their stations, especially when utilizing antennas that may not perform equally across all bands in terms of gain and directivity.