GROL Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The GROL (General Radiotelephone Operator License) is a vital credential for professionals managing radio and satellite communications in aviation, maritime, and international fixed public radio services. Administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the FCC GROL demonstrates your competence in adjusting, maintaining, and repairing complex radio equipment.
To earn your GROL radio license, you must pass two written examinations: Element 1 (Marine Radio Law) and Element 3 (General Radiotelephone). Our free resources, including practice questions and a detailed GROL license study guide, are designed to help you ace the test and advance your technical career.
Unlike many other professional certifications, the FCC GROL license is issued for your lifetime. Once you pass your FCC GROL exams (Elements 1 and 3), you never need to renew it, making it a valuable one-time investment for your long-term career in avionics and maritime communications.
Free GROL Practice Test Questions
Prepare for your certification with our comprehensive GROL license test simulator. These practice modules cover essential topics for both Element 1 and Element 3 to ensure you pass.
GROL Exam Flashcards
Quick review for key radio and electronics concepts
GROL License Study Guide
Use this interactive GROL study guide to understand the essentials of the exam. Navigate through the tabs to find answers about the format, registration, scoring, and preparation tips.
| What is the GROL license? | The GROL license (General Radiotelephone Operator License) is an FCC credential required to maintain and repair certain aviation and marine radio equipment. |
| Who needs a GROL certification? | Avionics technicians, marine radio operators, and professionals working with international fixed public radio services need a GROL certification. |
| Do I need a degree for the GROL? | No, you do not need a college degree to obtain an FCC GROL license. You only need to pass the required written exams. |
| Is the GROL license valid for life? | Yes, once issued, the FCC GROL is valid for the holder's lifetime and does not require renewal. |
| What elements are on the GROL exam? | The GROL exam consists of Element 1 (Marine Radio Law) and Element 3 (General Radiotelephone). |
| How many questions are on the GROL test? | Element 1 has 24 questions, and Element 3 has 76 questions, totaling 100 questions for the full GROL test. |
| What is the passing score for GROL? | You must answer 18/24 (75%) correctly on Element 1 and 57/76 (75%) correctly on Element 3 to pass the FCC GROL exam. |
| Is the GROL test multiple choice? | Yes, the GROL license test uses a multiple-choice format for all questions. |
| How do I register for the GROL exam? | You must register with a Commercial Operator License Examination (COLE) Manager to take the GROL exam. |
| Where can I find GROL testing locations? | GROL testing locations are available nationwide through organizations like ETA International, NMEA, and other FCC-approved exam managers. |
| What is the GROL exam cost? | The GROL license cost varies by testing center but typically ranges from $35 to $60 per element. |
| Do I need an FRN for the GROL? | Yes, you must obtain an FCC Registration Number (FRN) from the FCC website before taking your FCC GROL test. |
| When do I get my GROL results? | Most testing centers provide immediate results after you complete the GROL license test. |
| How do I get my official GROL license? | After passing, your COLE manager files the paperwork. You will receive your FCC GROL license via email or mail from the FCC. |
| Can I retake the GROL exam if I fail? | Yes, you can retake the GROL test as many times as needed, though you will likely have to pay the exam fee again. |
| How do I check my GROL status? | You can check your FCC GROL license status using the FCC's Universal Licensing System (ULS) online. |
| What is the average GROL salary? | Professionals with a GROL license earn an average salary of $65,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on their role. |
| Do avionics techs need a GROL? | Yes, many employers require an FCC GROL for avionics technicians to legally work on aircraft radio and radar systems. |
| Does a GROL increase pay? | Yes, holding a GROL certification often leads to higher pay and better job opportunities in the aviation and maritime sectors. |
| What jobs require a GROL license? | Jobs include avionics technician, marine electronics technician, and field service engineer, all often requiring a GROL radio license. |
What is the GROL Test Format?
The GROL test is divided into distinct "Elements" covering different areas of knowledge. To obtain the General Radiotelephone Operator License, you must pass Element 1 and Element 3.
Marine Radio Law covers the basic laws and operating procedures for maritime communications.
- Topics: Communications Act of 1934, FCC Rules, Operating Procedures
- Questions: 24 Questions (18 to pass)
General Radiotelephone covers electronic fundamentals and techniques required to adjust and repair radio transmitters.
- Topics: Electronic Principles, Circuit Components, Transmitters, Receivers
- Questions: 76 Questions (57 to pass)
Ship Radar Endorsement allows you to install and maintain ship radar equipment.
- Topics: Radar Theory, Magnetrons, Waveguides, Installation
- Questions: 50 Questions (38 to pass)
Detailed knowledge of electronic components and circuits is crucial for Element 3.
- Topics: Semiconductors, Power Supplies, Amplifiers, Logic Circuits
- Questions: Embedded in Element 3
Understanding aviation radio requirements is key for those seeking jobs in avionics.
- Topics: Aviation Frequencies, Emergency Comms, Equipment Standards
- Questions: Covered in Elements 1 & 3
Safety protocols for radio operators and technicians are tested extensively.
- Topics: Electrical Shock Hazards, Radiation Safety, Distress Signals
- Questions: Integrated across all elements
Focus heavily on Element 3 as it constitutes the bulk of the GROL exam (76 questions) and covers complex electronic theory. Use our fcc grol study guide resources to master circuit diagrams and formulas.
GROL Score Calculator
Calculate your potential score for the combined GROL exam (Elements 1 & 3).
GROL Salary and Job Outlook
Holding an FCC GROL license significantly boosts earning potential in aviation and maritime industries.
| Role | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Radio Operator | $58,000 | $4,800 | Entry Level |
| Avionics Technician | $72,000 | $6,000 | 2-5 Years |
| Electronics Tech | $68,000 | $5,600 | 1-4 Years |
| Broadcast Engineer | $82,000 | $6,800 | 5-10 Years |
| Maritime Officer | $95,000 | $7,900 | 10+ Years |
Earning your GROL certification opens doors to specialized high-paying roles in federal government, aerospace, and commercial shipping that are unavailable to unlicensed technicians.
How to Get Your GROL License
Follow this step-by-step roadmap to obtain your FCC GROL license efficiently. The process involves study, registration, and passing the required elements.
- Obtain FRN - Register for an FCC Registration Number (FRN) on the FCC website.
- Study for Exams - Use a GROL license study guide to prepare for Element 1 and Element 3.
- Find Test Center - Locate a Commercial Operator License Examination (COLE) manager near you.
- Schedule Exam - Book your appointment for the GROL test and pay the exam fee.
- Take the Test - Bring your ID and calculator. Pass both elements with 75% or higher.
- File Application - Your COLE manager typically files FCC Form 605 on your behalf.
- Receive License - Your official GROL radio license will be issued electronically by the FCC.
GROL License Cost
The cost to obtain a GROL license is relatively low compared to other professional certifications. Fees are paid to the testing center, not the FCC directly.
Since the FCC GROL license does not expire and requires no renewal fees, your initial investment of ~$100 provides lifetime career benefits.
Career Opportunities with a GROL
Explore the diverse job roles available to GROL certification holders.
GROL Testing Contacts
Contact these official organizations to schedule your GROL exam.
Search for "GROL testing locations near me" on the ETA International or W5YI websites to find an authorized proctor in your area.
GROL Test Day Checklist
Ready to Pass Your GROL Exam?
Join thousands of technicians who passed with our GROL license study guide resources. Start practicing today!
START GROL PRACTICE TESTGROL License Renewal
One of the best features of the GROL certification is its lifetime validity. Unlike many other credentials, you do not need to renew it.
Once you receive your FCC GROL license, it never expires. You do not need to complete continuing education units or pay renewal fees.
GROL Exam Questions and Answers
The FCC GROL license (General Radiotelephone Operator License) allows you to adjust, maintain, and repair FCC-licensed radio transmitters in aviation, maritime, and international fixed public radio services.
The GROL test is moderately difficult, especially Element 3, which covers electronics theory. However, with a good GROL license study guide, pass rates are high.
You can find GROL testing locations through FCC-approved COLE managers like ETA International or W5YI-VEC. They have proctors available nationwide.
Some COLE managers offer remote proctoring, allowing you to take the GROL test online. Check with specific exam providers for availability.
The GROL license cost consists mainly of exam fees, which range from $35 to $60 per element depending on the testing center.
No, the GROL license is issued for the holder's lifetime and does not expire or require renewal.
Jobs requiring a GROL license include avionics technicians, marine radio operators, and field engineers maintaining radio towers.
The GROL exam has 100 questions total: 24 for Element 1 and 76 for Element 3.
No, you do not need a degree. You only need to pass the written exams to earn your FCC GROL certification.
While the GROL license is a US certification, it satisfies international treaty requirements for radio operators on US-flagged vessels traveling internationally.