SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-model-control-no-id

When may an amateur station transmit without on-air identification?

The exception is while transmitting signals to control model craft.

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  1. While controlling model craft ✔
  2. During brief station adjustments
  3. While transmitting an unmodulated carrier

Why: Signals used to control model craft may be transmitted without on-air station identification. Brief tests, low power, or an unmodulated signal do not create the exception.

Huh, didn't know that: Model-craft control is treated separately from ordinary two-way amateur communication.

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Why did the model plane follow the radio? It liked clear directions.
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References

Answer: While controlling model craft. Signals used to control model craft may be transmitted without on-air station identification. Brief tests, low power, or an unmodulated signal do not create the exception.

  1. eCFR, 47 CFR 97.215, Telecommand of model craft www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-C/section-97.215
    The station identification procedure is not required for transmissions directed only to the model craft
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. eCFR, 47 CFR 97.215, Telecommand of model craft www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-C/section-97.215
    a label indicating the station call sign and the station licensee's name and address is affixed to the station transmitter
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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