I can't put up a big HF antenna, so is there any point in upgrading to General? Absolutely.  First, the knowledge gained in the general class will enhance your VHF/UHF privileges with a mobile or handheld.  Second, there are many stealth antenna designs that you might be able to work with.  Third, some Amateur Radio clubs (such as the West Palm Beach Amateur Radio Club), will shortly have a club station that can be used by members and even accessed over the Internet! I only got my license for emergency communications.  Is there any point in upgrading to General? Absolutely.  The General class will cover many topics and provide hands-on that will enhance your ablility to use amateur radio for emergency communications.  It will also provide an opportunity to review and lock-in concepts that may have been forgotten since the Technican exam was done. Why is the class spread over 7 sessions (6 class sessions and the exam session).  I have heard of weekend classes that do the same thing. Weekend exam cram sessions will usually allow someone to pass the exam.  However, the point of this class is to learn the underlying concepts to enjoy the hobby and/or become a better emergency communicator.  Learning is more effective when done in smaller bites over a longer period of time.  Also, by having a number of sessions, there is more time for students to get hands-on experience in class. I forgot (or really never learned) some of the Technician stuff, can I still take the Upgrade class? Absolutely.  The class will cover all the necessary information that might have been forgotten (or never really learned).  In fact, this is a good reason to take the class itself - get more familiar with what you should already know.  I already have the book, why should I take the class too? Most people find a class an effective way to enhance the learning experience beyond just reading a book.  The class will include hands-on sessions to get on the air, tune a HF radio, take SWR measurements, install connectors, and other activities that go beyond what a book alone can do. What if I have to miss a class? You will know ahead of time what each class will cover.  Read the section of the book for the class missed and the instructors will work with you and answer any questions you might have about the material. How can the class be free? The West Palm Beach Fire/Rescue Department makes the training room available at no cost for worthly community meetings.  The instructors volunteer their time since part of their enjoyment of the hobby is helping others along. How can the exam be free? The exam will be administered by Volunteer Examiners that are part of the Laurel VEC.  Unlike some other VECs (such as the ARRL), Laurel is completely free, even if you have to retake an exam.