How to apply and take the Aeronautical Service (or Special) Radio Operator Exam
What is the Aeronautical Service (or Special) Radio Operator Exam?
Aeronautical Service (or Special) Radio Operator Exam
The Aeronautical Service (or Special) Radio Operator Exam is the certification process for becoming a 航空特殊無線技士 (Kōkū Tokushu Musen Gishi) or a 航空無線通信士 (Koku Musen Tsuushinshi) — Aeronautical Special Radio Operator. This is the license that allows you to operate a radio on an aircraft, and is valid for life.
There are two types of licenses:
Aeronautical Service Radio Operator License (航空無線通信士 or Koku Musen Tsuushinshi)
Required for pilots who fly commercially
Aeronautical Service Special Radio Operator License (航空特殊無線通信士 or Koku Tokushu Musen Tsuushinshi)
Required for pilots who fly for non-commercial purposes (student pilot, private flying, etc.)
The exam covers four main subjects:
English
Tests understanding of technical terminology used in aviation radio and English used in communications with air traffic controllers. Includes both listening and reading components.
Radio Engineering
Tests fundamental knowledge necessary for aviation radio communication, including radio equipment mechanisms, radio wave propagation, radar, and other basics.
Regulations (Radio Law)
Tests understanding of laws and regulations related to radio station operations, including Radio Law, Aviation Law, Telecommunications Business Law, and other relevant legislation.
Radiotelegraphy (Telecommunication Techniques)
A practical radio communication test using the phonetic alphabet (phonetic code). Consists of two tests: sending and receiving.
Receiving (Receiving test)
This YouTube video shows what you'll be doing during this part of the exam.
Sending (Sending test)
You'll read a coded English sentence using the phonetic alphabet in front of an examiner. This YouTube video demonstrates the process.
You can practice using the free 電気通信術練習 app on the Apple Store
This app may not be available in your region, so we may release our own version in the future for everyone to use.
How to apply for the Aeronautical Service (or Special) Radio Operator Exam
This exam is only available in Japanese.
1
Check the exam dates
Visit the Japan Radio Institute website to check exam dates. Look for either 航空特殊無線技士 (special radio operator) or 航空無線技士 (radio operator), depending on the license you need.
The red boxes show actual exam dates, with application periods listed beside them. You'll also find detailed exam PDFs on the far right of the table. Apply as early as possible!
2
Apply for the exam
Apply online here. Create an account (or log in if you already have one) and complete the application form.
3
Study for the exam and wait for confirmation from the Japan Radio Institute
You'll receive a confirmation letter from the Japan Radio Institute. Use these study strategies to prepare:
Review past exams
Start with previous exam papers available here. Search for your specific exam type. You can work on this simultaneously with step 2.
Purchase study materials based on your license type
We recommend these textbooks for aeronautical service radio operator exams:
やさしく学ぶ 航空特殊無線技士試験 (Yasashiku Manabu Koku Tokushu Musen Gishi Shiken)
For the Aeronautical Service Special Radio Operator Exam. Available on Amazon.
やさしく学ぶ 航空無線通信士試験(改訂2版) (Yasashiku Manabu Koku Musen Tsuushinshi Shiken)
For the Aeronautical Service Radio Operator Exam. Available on Amazon.
Memorize textbook questions and answers
Many exam questions are identical or very similar to those in the textbooks and past exams.
Practice radiotelegraphy skills
Don't overlook this practical component. While textbooks don't cover this extensively, watch the YouTube videos above to practice and familiarize yourself with the process.
4
Take the exam
Good luck! Arrive early and bring all required documents as instructed.
5
Apply for your physical license
After passing, you'll receive an email from the Japan Radio Institute confirming your results.
However, you must apply separately for the physical license using the link provided in the email.
The content in the red box explains how to download the application form for your physical license. Download, print, and complete the form according to procedures from the Ministry of General Affairs.
6
Receive your license
Once your physical license arrives by mail, congratulations! You can now officially and legally communicate with ATC!