How to Get Your FCC Registration Number (FRN)

What is an FRN?

An FCC Registration Number (FRN) is a unique 10-digit number assigned by the Federal Communications Commission to identify businesses and individuals doing business with the FCC.

Whether you are taking the exam for a Marine Radio Operator Permit (MROP), General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL), or any other commercial radio license, you must have an FRN before you take your exam.

Your FRN acts as your official account identifier. It replaces the need to submit your Social Security Number on exam paperwork, helping protect your personal privacy.

Why Do You Need It Before Exam Day?

Authorized Commercial Operator License Examination Managers (COLEMs) are required by the FCC to link your exam results directly to your FRN.

If you show up to a test session, whether in-person or online, without an FRN: - The proctor cannot officially register your test session. - Your Proof of Passing Certificate (PPC) cannot be issued. - The FCC cannot process or issue your commercial license.

Getting your FRN is completely free and takes less than 10 minutes online.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your FRN

The FCC manages registration through the CORES (Commission Registration System) portal. Follow these simple steps to set up your account and receive your FRN immediately:

1. Create an FCC CORES Account

1. 1.
   Visit the official FCC CORES Portal.
2. 2.
   Click "Register" under the Username Account Management section.
3. 3.
   Fill in your basic details (Name, Email, Security Questions).
4. 4.
   You will receive an automated activation email. Click the link in the email to activate your account within 24 hours.

2. Log In and Register Your FRN

1. 1.
   Go back to the FCC CORES Login Page and sign in with your newly created username and password.
2. 2.
   Select "Register New FRN" from the main menu options.
3. 3.
   Choose "An Individual" as your entity type.
4. 4.
   Select whether your primary contact address is within the United States.

3. Complete the Form

1. 1.
   Provide your legal name, physical contact address, and Social Security Number (SSN).
2. 2.
   Review your information carefully, ensure your legal name matches your government-issued ID exactly.
3. 3.
   Submit the form.

4. Save Your FRN Immediately

Once submitted, your 10-digit FRN will be displayed on the screen immediately. You will also receive a confirmation email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting an FRN cost anything? No. Registering for an FRN through the official FCC CORES website is 100% free.

What if I already have an FRN for an Amateur (Ham) Radio License? You do not need a new one! The FCC uses a single FRN per individual across all radio services. If you already have an FRN from a previous FCC license, simply use that exact same number when registering with your COLEM.

What if I forgot my existing FRN? You can look up your name or existing license using the public FCC ULS License Search tool.

Next Steps

Now that you have your FRN, you are fully prepared to register for a test session with a COLEM.

If you are currently studying for your commercial operator exam, check out Hangar Academy's MROP course for complete question pools, structured subelement breakdowns, and timed mock exams.