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Joining FAQs

How to I join the club?

To join us, simply fill out the application form above and wait to hear back. 

How old must I be to join the club?

Full members (youth members) must be at least 16 years old and less than 26 years old. If you are under the age of 18, we'll need your parents permission for you to join. Those 26 and over can apply for affiliate membership (see FAQ on this page).

Does it cost to join the club?

We charge a small (£12.00) membership fee each year to help fund the work the club does. After your first event (which you can attend free as a guest), you may choose to become a member of the club - we will then ask for your membership fees. If you are unable to afford membership fees due to your personal financial circumstances, the committee has discretionary ability to waive them on a case-by-case basis.

Do I need to have contesting experience to join the club?

NO!!! No matter if you've never sent your callsign on the air before, you are more than welcome to come and give it a try. That's what we want the club to be, a place where people can give it a go and try new things without being under any pressure or having to have long lists of qualifications. 

Do I need an amateur radio license to join the club?

Almost all of our members already have an amateur license as this provides them with the knowledge and experience required to make the most of the contesting experience. If you do not have an amateur radio license, please just let us know on the form - if you're actively working towards it and clearly passionate about radio, we will be delighted to welcome you! 

I've got my foundation/intermediate UK license - is this ok?

Yes! The club has enough full licence members that we can supervise you at events using our full license club callsigns. It is however important to remember you will not be able to host your own YCG event without one.

Can you help me get my amateur radio license?

Only the RSGB is permitted to examine UK amateur radio licenses, and only the IRTS is permitted to examine Irish HAREC exams. We are happy to put you in touch with the relevant bodies for exams and with other clubs for training, but we don't offer it ourselves.

Do remember it is not needed to hold a license to join the club. 

What is affiliate membership? How can I get it?

Affiliate membership is reserved for any person who the committee believes can provide a useful service to the club. Thus, affiliate membership cannot be guaranteed and is provided on a case-by-case basis by the committee as required.