How to Apply for a Vanity Amateur Radio Callsign (in the US)

If you are an amateur radio operator in the United States and would like to obtain a "vanity" callsign, which is a unique callsign that you choose, you can follow these steps:

1. Check the FCC's Universal Licensing System (ULS) website to see if the callsign you want is available. You can search for available callsigns using the FCC's Advanced License Search page. If the callsign you want is already in use, you will need to choose a different one.

2. Once you have found an available callsign, you will need to log in to the FCC's ULS website using your FCC Registration Number (FRN) and password. If you do not have an FRN, you can register for one on the FCC's Registration System (CORES) website.

3. Once you are logged in to the ULS website, click on the "Apply for a Vanity Call Sign" link in the left-hand menu. Follow the on-screen instructions to fill out the application form, including the callsign you want, your name and mailing address, and your current callsign.

4. You will also need to pay a $21.40 application fee online using a credit or debit card.

5. After you submit your application and fee, the FCC will process it and issue you a new callsign if it is available. The entire process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the volume of applications the FCC is processing.

6. Once your new callsign is issued, it will be updated on the ULS website and you can begin using it on the air. Make sure to update your station logs and any other relevant documents with your new callsign.

Note: Vanity callsigns are subject to certain restrictions and rules, such as having to wait two years before applying for a new vanity callsign, and not being allowed to apply for callsigns that have been previously held by others. Make sure to review the FCC's rules and regulations on vanity callsigns before applying.