T1E01: When to an amateur station transmit without a control operator

Q: When may an amateur station transmit without a control operator?

The correct answer is D: Never. The correct answer is D: Never. According to FCC Part 97.7, an amateur station must always have a control operator when transmitting. There are no exceptions to this requirement - every transmission must be under the direct supervision of a licensed control operator. Even when using automatic control (like a repeater), there must be a control operator responsible for the station, even if they're not physically present. The control operator is responsible for ensuring the station operates in compliance with FCC rules. This requirement ensures accountability and proper operation of all amateur stations. Automatic control doesn't mean 'no control operator' - it means the operator doesn't need to be physically present, but they're still responsible.

Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2022-2026 Question Pool | Topic: T1E

T1E01T1E

When may an amateur station transmit without a control operator?

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Deep Dive: T1E01

The correct answer is D: Never. According to FCC Part 97.7, an amateur station must always have a control operator when transmitting. There are no exceptions to this requirement - every transmission must be under the direct supervision of a licensed control operator. Even when using automatic control (like a repeater), there must be a control operator responsible for the station, even if they're not physically present. The control operator is responsible for ensuring the station operates in compliance with FCC rules. This requirement ensures accountability and proper operation of all amateur stations. Automatic control doesn't mean 'no control operator' - it means the operator doesn't need to be physically present, but they're still responsible.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Automatic control (like repeaters) still requires a control operator. The operator doesn't need to be present, but one must be designated and responsible. Option B: Incorrect. When another licensed amateur uses your station, they become the control operator. There must always be a control operator. Option C: Incorrect. Auxiliary stations still require a control operator. No station type is exempt from this requirement.

Exam Tip

Control operator = Always required. Remember: There are no exceptions - every transmission must have a control operator. Even automatic control requires a designated control operator.

Memory Aid

**C**ontrol **O**perator = **C**onstant **O**bligation (think 'CO = CO' = Constant Obligation)

Real-World Example

Your local repeater operates automatically, retransmitting signals without human intervention. However, there's still a control operator (the repeater trustee) who is responsible for the repeater's operation and ensures it complies with FCC rules. Even though the repeater operates automatically, the control operator must be designated and is accountable for the station's operation.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool

Subelement: T1E

Reference: FCC Part 97.7

Key Concepts

FCC Part 97.7 Control operator requirement Automatic control Station operation

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T1E topic.