How To Obtain Your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit

The Permit is only required for international flying—it is not required while flying in the U.S. using VHF radios.

If your future aviation plans include international travel, or you’re pursuing a professional aviation track, take the time to obtain your Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RR).

In the U.S., the FCC issues a RR for pilots, but it is only required for international flying—it is not required while flying in the U.S. using VHF radios. RR holders are authorized to operate most aircraft and aeronautical ground stations. They can also operate marine radiotelephone stations aboard pleasure craft (other than those carrying more than six passengers for hire on the Great Lakes or bays or tidewaters or in the open sea) when operator licensing is required.

While it is not likely you’ll be asked to present your RR when traveling abroad or entering the U.S., the requirement to possess the license remains. And if you’re an aspiring professional pilot, airlines and other professional pilot employment opportunities will likely require that applicants possess the Permit regardless of your flying responsibilities. You can apply electronically with the FCC by completing form #605 – https://www.fcc.gov/licensing-databases/forms#605.

The license is a one-time acquisition with no expiration. The permit fee is $35.

To obtain your Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit:

1. Visit https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
2. Click on “Register” in the middle box titled “Need a Username?”
3. Follow the instructions to complete the registration to obtain a FCC Registration Number (FRN) and password.
4. Then, go to https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp
5. Log in with your FRN and password
6. On the left side, click on “Apply for a New License” (top left)
7. Select “RR – Restricted Operator” from list
8. Follow instructions to complete.
9. Once paid, you will receive a link in your email to view the actual permit. It usually takes 24-48 business hours.

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Eric Radtke

It was his first airplane trip at age seven that made Eric decide to become a pilot. "While boarding the airplane, a flight attendant noticed my interest in the flight deck and urged me to go talk to the pilot. I give a lot of credit to that pilot for my career choice." He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and went on to an airline career. He learned to fly at Sporty’s as part of the University of Cincinnati’s Professional Pilot Program, an initiative he later directed. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and went on to an airline career. Eric now manages Sporty’s media network including FlightTrainingCentral.com. In addition, Eric serves as a Captain in a Cincinnati-based corporate flight department.

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