License not in database

[Blackcat630]

A local friend wanted a 1x2 with a double letter.. we both saw it coming up for availability. He asked if I was going for it, I declined he went for it and got it. Think it had around 150 applicants. It really wasn't the letters I wanted and I figured I didn't have a chance anyways. You never know.. sometimes it takes many tries and years to get the one you want or one you can live with..

 

[unit_399]

A few years ago, I contacted the FCC to get an actual certificate for my 1st class phone. All I had was a small wallet sized card. I checked the database, and it wasn't listed there. The woman on the FCC call line told me that it was valid and added it to the database. I
I received the certificate about 2 weeks later.

- 399

 

[Mudfoot]

I might be getting a 1x2. I sent FCC an obituary of a dude that died in 2010. He shows SK on QRZ, but FCC shows his license is still active, but expires soon.

Supposedly, I just keep checking until his license shows canceled, then I promptly apply for a vanity with his old call.

I just don't know how fast the paid vanity providers see that and grab it from me. I guess I'll have to check everyday. I knew the dude.

 

[W5GX]

When I type his old call in, It doesn't show anything for it. Does that mean it was cancelled at some point? It's K8ZBQ

It shows up now.

https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/UlsSearch/license.jsp?licKey=4227903

One exception, you don't have to be the same operating class as the deceased, but if he has a 1 x 2 call, a Tech can't obtain it.

Correct, but not complete. Getting a relative's old call sign is exactly like getting a vanity - the applicant's class must be equal or better than the call sign. So, additionally, a Tech may not request a 2x1 or an "A" 2x2. The bonus is you get to jump before the 2 year period.

Almost next to impossible. There's probably Hams checking those sites daily just waiting for those to come up then it's a bit of a lottery with many requests for them.

I had applied for two 1x2 and three 2x1 calls. Since it's a lottery, the odds are dependent upon the number of applicants.

Took overall about a month. I may be the outlier, though.

I might be getting a 1x2. I sent FCC an obituary of a dude that died in 2010. He shows SK on QRZ, but FCC shows his license is still active, but expires soon.

Supposedly, I just keep checking until his license shows canceled, then I promptly apply for a vanity with his old call.

I just don't know how fast the paid vanity providers see that and grab it from me. I guess I'll have to check everyday. I knew the dude.

I wouldn't bother with those call sign services - you pay even if you don't get the call.

Check out AE7Q.com for details - it worked great, and pretty good step-by-step for applying to the FCC.

 

[kopcicle]

Check out AE7Q

^^^
And if "you knew the dude" there may be room for the family angle.
I know of at least one case where spouse, siblings and children of the deceased wrote the FCC on the behalf of a non blood relative applicant. It worked.