How to become a HAM.

[Lars]

First off, there are three classes of license for Amateur Radio (aka Ham Radio)

First: Technician License --> Element 2 Study Materials
Element 2 test: is 35 questions multiple choice.

Second: General License --> Element 3 Study Materials
Element 3 test: is 35 questions multiple choice.

Third: Extra License --> Element 4 Study Materials
Element 4 test: is 50 questions multiple choice.

You can take Practice tests for all three license classes here: QRZ Ham Radio
Each requires a score of greater than 70% to pass. Tests cost $14 to take. If you pass Element 2, you can take Element 3 in the same sitting for free.

Once you pass a test your license is good for 10 years, at which point you renew your license for free. You do not need to take any further tests.

Each Class license increases your privileges on the air. Primarily the Technician Class license is for VHF/UHF communications, which work well for regional contacts. There are exceptions to this, but generally speaking this is the case. The General class license opens up 90% of the HF bands for you. These work for around the world communications. Even with low power and modest antennas. The Extra class license gives you the last small piece of the Pie.

There are books from Gordon West to help you prepare for the tests.
Technician Class General Class Extra Class
I have a couple of these books I might be willing to loan out for someone interested in learning.

The Indianapolis Radio club runs classes from time to time to help people get licensed. As do several other county and local radio clubs.