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FAQ: All FAQs
ConstructionWhen can I start construction? You can start construction upon licensed grant. You should refer to the appropriate rule section to determine construction period for a specific radio service. If a tower owner is unwilling or unable to register a structure, then how should I as a licensee go about filing an application that involves the site? Would the FCC grant a Special Temporary Authorization (STA) if there were to be a delay that is caused by the owner's failure to register in a timely manner? During the period from July 1996-July 1998, the FCC required that all pre-existing antenna structures-for which FAA notification of proposed construction is required-be registered with the FCC. The owner is responsible for registering the structure and providing a copy of the registration to all tenant licensees. (NOTE: To register the structure with the FCC, the owner must provide a FAA determination of "No Hazard.") The FCC also requires that the owner register newly built structures prior to construction. When locating on an existing structure, you should be able to provide registration information (if the owner is in compliance). In cases where the owner is unable or unwilling to provide registration information, you may request a waiver of the instant dismissal policy. If registration is required for a structure, then you as a licensee must provide a valid registration number or request waiver of the instant dismissal policy. Waiver requests and STA requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. It is unlikely, however, that the FCC would authorize operation from a structure that requires registration if you cannot provide a determination of "No Hazard" as issued by the FAA.
Where can I find the construction buildout requirements for PCS? You can find these requirements in 47 CFR Rule Section 24.203. Where can I find the construction buildout requirements for LMDS? You can find these requirements in 47 CFR Rule Section 101.1011. You can also find the requirement definitions in the LMDS Bidders Package (pp. 261-64). Construction DeadlinesWhere can I find my construction deadline? This information is printed on your FCC authorization and it can be located using License Search in the Universal Licensing System (ULS). How do I use License Search in ULS to find my required construction deadline? Construction deadlines are located in different places within ULS depending on whether the license was issued to a market, a location, or a frequency. Licenses awarded through the auction process are licensed to a market. The construction deadlines are located at the license level, in the License Information Screen, in fields labeled "1st Build Out Deadline", "2nd Build Out Deadline", etc. Licenses in the Cellular Radio Service are licensed to a location. The construction deadline is displayed at the location level. To access the location level -- from the License Information Screen, use the "License Options" drop down list and select location(s). From the left-hand column, select the location (coordinates) where you want to know the construction deadline. The deadline is located in the field labeled "Build Out Deadline". All other licenses, such as paging, public-safety, microwave, business/industrial pool, are licensed to a frequency. The construction deadline is displayed at the frequency level. To access the frequency level -- from the License Information Screen, use the "License Options" drop down list and select location(s). From the left-hand column, select the appropriate location (coordinates). At the bottom of this screen, use the Antennas Button. From the left-hand column, select the antenna number where the frequency in question is located. Use the Frequencies Button to display all frequencies. And again from the left-hand column, select the frequency that you want to know the construction deadline. The deadline is located in the field labeled "Build Out Deadline". Note: 47 C.F.R. §1.946 requires the notification of construction, FCC Form 601 and Schedule K, to be filed no later than 15 days after the applicable construction deadline. A request for an extension of time, FCC Form 601 and Schedule L, must be filed prior to the applicable construction deadline and does not automatically extend the applicable construction deadline. How do I determine whether a licensee has met its construction requirement? You need to know whether the license was issued to a market, location or frequency. Then, go to the appropriate level within the license record. See above question.
If a licensee didn't construct a station or its license and consequently didn't file a notification of construction, when does the license terminate?" If a licensee fails to construct a station or fails to meet a construction requirement for an entire license, the station or license terminates automatically as of the applicable construction deadline. The Bureau will, at a later date, update its licensing records as necessary. How often are the licensing records updated to reflect the terminated licenses? The Bureau is in the process of implementing a standard procedure to address this issue. When it is implemented, the Bureau will make public the details of this process. Additional information about construction requirements can be found in 47 C.F.R §1.946 and under the specific rules sections governing the individual radio services. Fees
Fee Filing GuideDoes the FCC charge me per form or per call sign in regard to Form 603? Your charge depends on the radio service in question. We determine most fees by form, but some services do charge a fee per call sign. Check the Fee Filing Guide. When completing Form 603 manually and trying to determine my fees, I have trouble getting payment codes, types, and amounts of fees. What are these codes, types, and amounts of fees? All the services listed below can no longer be filed manually. Instead, they must be filed electronically. Form 159Why does the help icon on the 159 filing screen take me back to the ULS homepage? ULS Technical Support has been unable to reproduce this situation. All of our tests indicate that the buttons on the Form 159 screen are pointing to the proper locations. What happens if I have problems loading or printing Form 159? If you experience problems loading or printing the form, then call Technical Support at (202) 414-1250. If I think that ULS has calculated the wrong fee for my Form 159, then will ULS Technical Support know what the fees are? If not, should there be another message? If you believe that ULS has incorrectly calculated the fee amount due on an application, then call Technical Support at (202) 414-1250 and describe the situation. They will be prepared to give you guidance or refer you to FCC staff who will provide guidance on remitting the appropriate fees. Why doesn't Form 159 print as a single page? Form 159 does not print as a single page because the programming language used to design the form does not provide the ability to control where the page ends. How can I find out whether I have paid the fee for my application? The FCC will give you a fee control number. You can find this number on the general information screen of ULS applications. Request for Waiver of FeesIn light of recent bankruptcy proceedings involving FCC licensees, the Bureau has received several inquires regarding the process involved to request a waiver of fees associated with ULS filings. This FAQ is meant to provide guidance for applicants that request a waiver of the fee rules associated with ULS filings.
If I want to request a waiver of the fee rules associated with a ULS filing, where do I submit my request? All requests that involve a waiver of the fee rules associated with a ULS filing MUST be submitted to the Office of Managing Director, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, S.W., Room 1A625, Washington, D.C. 20554. The requirements for submitting requests to the Office of Managing Director for fee waivers are found in 47 C.F.R §1.1117 Should I provide a copy of the request for a waiver of the fee rules as an attachment to my ULS filing? Yes. Although the Rules do not require this, it is extremely beneficial to attach a copy of the request for fee waiver with your ULS filing in order to facilitate processing. How should I answer the question on FCC Form 601 or FCC Form 603 "Does this filing request a Waiver of the Commission's rules" in instances when the only waiver I am requesting is for a waiver of the fee rules? Answer NO to the waiver question if the only waiver request for the underlying application is for a waiver of the fee rules. The Bureau is in the process of updating the instructions for these forms to reflect this. Is there a fee for a request for a waiver of the fee rules associated with a ULS filing? No. A request to waive 47 C.F.R. §1.1102 is not considered a feeable waiver. If I file a request for a waiver of the fee rules, do I still have to submit the fees for which I am seeking a waiver at the same time I file the application in ULS? The Commission's Rules, 47 C.F.R. §1.1117(e), require that the actual fees associated with a ULS filing must be paid at the time of your filing, even if a request for a waiver of the fee rules is submitted to the Office of Managing Director. Thus, you must submit actual fees you are requesting a waiver from. Some applicants also submit a request to waive this Rule - 47 C.F.R. §1.1117(e) - in addition to their underlying fee waiver request. If an applicant chooses this approach, the waiver request submitted to the Office of Managing Director must ask for a waiver of both 47 C.F.R. §1.1102 and 47 C.F.R §1.1117(e). A justification to waive both Rules should be included with the submission, but need not include the actual fees that are requested to be waived or deferred. Is there a fee for a request to waive/defer 47 C.F.R. §1.1117(e)? No. A request to waive/defer 47 C.F.R. §1.1117(e) is not a feeable waiver. If I do submit a request to waive/defer 47 C.F.R. §1.117(e) will my ULS filing be dismissed because of insufficient fees? No. But you should contact the Auctions/ULS Hotline immediately at (888) CALLFCC (225-5322), choose option #2 or (717) 338-2888 and inform them that a waiver/deferral has been filed with the Office of Managing Director regarding payment of the required filing fees due at the time of filing. The applicant should provide the Hotline with the file number of the ULS filing. The Hotline will contact the appropriate FCC staff with the relevant information and the FCC will ensure that the application is not dismissed while a waiver/deferral request is pending with the Office of Managing Director. Note: If the request for a fee waiver is not granted, the Office of Managing Director will issue a letter to the applicant informing them of their decision. The letter will indicate how many days the applicant has to submit the required fees. If the fees are not submitted within the required timeframe your ULS application may be dismissed. Withdrawal/RefundHow long do I have to withdraw an application? Will the FCC return the fee for a withdrawn application? You may withdraw an application anytime prior to the FCC's granting the application (i.e., as long as the application is in a pending status). Once an application is in Status 2, however, it has undergone initial processing, so the application fee portion of the total remittance is not refundable. NOTE: Applicants in any of the private services who pay their regulatory fees and their application fee at the same time that they submit their application to the FCC may request a refund of the regulatory fee portion of their total remittance. Filing
AmendmentCan I provide clarification of the Major/Minor determination for amendments? Yes. Answer the question "Yes" if the amendment or modification by itself is a major action. If the amendment or modification is a minor action, then also answer "Yes"-but only if all previously filed minor amendments or modifications would produce the cumulative effect of a major action. How do I know if an amendment will produce a cumulative effect that would equal or exceed the criteria for a major filing? You can find the rules for major modifications outlined in Part 1.929. You should review these rules carefully to determine if your application-when you combine it with your previously filed modifications or amendments-equals or exceeds the listed criteria. AttachmentsWhat is the FCC looking for as an attachment with MAS applications? What has taken the place of the statement of use? Section 101.105(c)(3) requires proof that you have met protection criteria over the entire service area of existing systems. In addition, Section 101.1309 requires that each application for authorizations in bands designated for private internal use include a certification that states why the application satisfies the definition of private internal use. Do attachments need to include the Path Data Sheet? Path data sheets are no longer required by the FCC. Technical support has told me that attachments must be PDF. What types of graphic attachments can I file? ULS currently supports 2 types of attachments: I am having problems downloading zip files. What should I do? To speed transmission time and to provide search results as efficiently as possible, the download file is compressed. Currently, due to the FCC's operating system, ULS compresses the requested information into a TAR file, which is equivalent to the more familiar ZIP file. You can decompress TAR using most decompress programs, including PKZIP. We are investigating whether it is possible to provide these files in ZIP format rather than TAR format. Do I have to use a specific file extension to make files convertible to PDF? No. The PDF conversion process is not affected by the file extension. The conversion process uses the character control information in the file itself to determine what type of file that it is. Will ULS accept attachments in WordPerfect 7.0? Yes. The FCC has received some reports of problems but our testing indicates that WordPerfect 7.0 can be uploaded as attachments to ULS applications. If you experience problems, then contact Technical Support at (202) 414-1250. When I upload a file as an attachment to an application, ULS lists the file as "unavailable" for a few moments until it can be converted to PDF format. Does this situation mean that I must wait before I can file the application electronically by clicking on the "Submit" button? No. If the application is otherwise complete, you do not have to wait for the file to be converted prior to submitting the application. In the event a file does not properly convert after the application has been submitted, the FCC staff will contact the person identified on the application and request that another copy be emailed or faxed. How do I add an attachment to a returned application? You simply file an amendment and answer "Yes" to the question on Form 601, which asks if you are filing attachments with the application. Note that there is an Attachment Button at the bottom of any page of the online Form 601. Do I still need to file microfiche with ULS? No. The FCC no longer requires microfiche filing. CancelingI am no longer using my equipment. How can I cancel my license? You must formally notify the FCC that you want to cancel your license. You can do this cancellation in two ways: Manually Write a letter to the FCC and mail to
1270 Fairfield Road Gettysburg, PA 17325-7245 If I do a cancellation of a license, will I get a notification of completed cancellation? Yes. ULS will generate a cancellation letter. Database CorrectionsOne applicant filed between 600 and 700 corrections. What is the status of database corrections? What happens when previous corrections have not been properly added to the system? Although ULS has many microwave database corrections to key in, resources are currently being utilized to process new and modification applications. When the backlog has been reduced, processors will review correction requests to determine if the database should be corrected or if an intervening modification has superceded the correction request. Licensees either will receive a new license or be contacted for further information if needed. Filing Form 601ConstructionWhat information do I need to complete Form 601 for a notification? To file online, you should select Required Notification (NT) for purpose of filing. Auctioned frequencies have benchmarks listed for "construction notifications." To find these construction notifications, you should perform a license search by call sign.
DatesHow will ULS handle "Grant" dates and "Issue/Effective" dates? Basically, the Grant date will reflect the date that the New or Renewed application was granted and the Effective Issue date will reflect the date that a license was Modified/Changed. More specifically, for Minor FilingWhat does the FCC consider "minor filings"? The FCC considers minor filings as those that fall under any of the following categories: *Typically, the FCC considers Notification of Consummation or Construction a minor filing; however, there are exceptions. For example, if a company with an expired license is still providing service, then the filing necessitates possible enforcement action. PurposeOriginally, I completed Form 600 for New applications (NE), Modified applications (MD), etc. What form do I use now? All services that required you to complete Form 600 now require you to file Form 601. Only services converted to ULS that required you to complete Form 600 require you to file Form 601. How much of the Form 601 do I need to complete for a Renewal Only (RO), Duplicate License (DU), Administrative Update (AU), Cancel (CA), and Withdrawal (WD)? You need to complete the main form of the Form 601 and Schedule A if there are multiple call signs affected.
Is it necessary to fill out all the information if I am filing a paper form for a renewal? If you are filing a Renewal Only (RO), you need to complete the entire main form of the Form 601 or Form 605, depending on which radio service you are renewing. Can I change a control point using the Administrative Update (AU)? Yes. You can change control points using the Administrative Update (AU) but only for a single call sign. What application purposes "automatically generate a printed license/authorization" when the application is granted, consented, consummated, or do all purposes generate a printed license/authorization? ULS automatically generates printed licenses/authorizations only for purposes: Quiet ZonesArecibo, Puerto Rico, and Green Bank, WV. Real Party InterestOn Form 601, what does "real party interest" mean? A "real party interest" is a person who "has an ownership interest, or will be in a position to actually or potentially control the operation of the station." Renewal: renew only, renew modificationA renewal can only be completed 90 days prior to the expiration date of that license. To complete a renewal of your license the FCC Form 601 (Main Form and/or associated schedules) is required. The purpose of the filing will either be Renewal Only "RO" or Renewal/Modification "RM". If you need to make a mailing address change it is advised to file an Administrative Update application prior to filing the renew application. Then submit a Renewal Only application to generate a new license period for your license. Renewal Only will be selected to renew an existing license that has not expired and where no changes in the license are being requested. Completing a Renewal Only you would only need to complete the 601 main form. Renewal/Modification would be used to renew an existing authorization, Special Temporary Authorization (STA), or developmental authorization and request a change in the conditions of that authorization. Completing a Renewal/Modification you would use 601 main form and schedules D & H for modifying technical data. For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via web site: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file an application electronically via ULS you will need to use a Netscape Communicator Browser (4.61, 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application.Electronic filers would utilize web site: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls.
2) Enter your TIN (taxpayer identification number) and Password. If you do not have your password or have forgotten it please call Technical Support 202-414-1250 for assistance. 3) Click on Select New Filing. FOR RENEWAL ONLY: FOR RENEWAL/MODIFICATION: If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (601) call the ULS/Auctions Hotline at 1-888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. Special Temporary Authority (STA)How do I file for a Special Temporary Authority (STA)? You can file for an STA interactively or manually. To file interactively, you must You can provide technical information in the format of the online application, or you can bypass these parts of the application by clicking on "Continue" when an error screen appears, and then provide the technical information in the attachments. To file manually, you must submit Form 601 (main form) with the appropriate schedule(s) for your radio service, plus any attachments that are required. The purpose of the filing would be New (NE). Refer to rule 1.931 for general information on STAs or to the rule sections for the appropriate services for STA "checklists." I applied for a Special Temporary Authority (STA). Can I file an application while the STA is pending? Yes. You may file your application even if an STA is pending. I need to renew my Special Temporary Authority (STA). What form(s) do I use? Use Form 601 to renew your STA-with purpose of New (NE)-so you can submit the attachment. I filed a microwave Special Temporary Authority (STA) manually, but I cannot find it on the ULS application search. How can I see the application and the status? Most manually filed Special Temporary Authority (STA) applications are not keyed into ULS. The FCC has an internal STA database where manually filed applications are kept. You can call the Licensing Support Hotline (888-225-5322, select option 2 after the recording) and request a status check of your manually filed STA. StatusI have a pending Modification application, Status 2, and I need to do another modification. Can I file multiple modifications (mods)? In certain situations, you can file multiple modification applications, as long as these applications are not conflicting with one another. The best way to correct a pending modification application is to file an Amendment application (AM). Pending Level 2 means that your application has been accepted into ULS and has gone through the nightly batch process without any fatal errors. It is waiting for review by processors and/or payment confirmation. What is an "incomplete" application? An incomplete application is an application that you started online but never submitted to ULS. You can complete or change an incomplete application within thirty (30) days of its creation, but after thirty (30) days, ULS purges the application from the database. Note that Pack applications remain for sixty (60) days. What is an "inactive" application? An inactive application is a previous version of an application that has been superseded by another amended application. ULS databases maintain this inactive version of an application. You can view this application, though, with an Application Search. Technical DataForm 601 does not collect technical data, such as output data and line loss, even though many of the coordinators used this information to facilitate building databases. Is the FCC considering reinstating the requirements for this technical data? If not, how does the coordinator obtain the necessary data? Currently, the FCC is not actively pursuing reinstatement of the collection of this technical data. With the implementation of ULS and the use of the new Form 601, the FCC is trying to reduce burdens on the licensees and to collect only the information that it needs to license microwave applicants. The FCC does collect EIRP, however, which takes output power and line loss into account. Could the FCC add a question on the receiver being left or right feed? Could the FCC instruct applicants to include this information with the model number? The FCC is not actively pursuing any additional data collection requirements on microwave applicants. However, if applicants want to indicate whether their receiver has a left or right feed in the same field with the model number, then they can do so. This indication, though, is not a requirement. Why am I entering latitude and longitude information to the tenth if the FCC rounds to the second and the ASR display does not show tenths? ULS and ASR are consistent in the way that you enter latitude and longitude and in the way that the system displays them. In both, data entry and display is to a tenth of a degree. Why do I need to put latitude/longitude information on the second location site if I have a tower registration number? Why can't I just put the Antenna Structure Registration number and have the system pull the information? ULS is programmed to pull Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) information for transmit locations only. Since the FCC required only coordinates and AMSL for receive locations, programming was not included to pull ASR information for receivers. I have one (1) transmitter, split power, and transmit to two (2) receive sites. Is this one (1) application with two (2) paths or two (2) applications? As long as transmissions are coming from the same location, this would be one (1) application with two (2) paths. The system will not accept my emission designator. I get an error that it does not match the frequency information that I provided. I have used this designator for a long period, but the system will not accept it now. What am I doing wrong, or is it ULS? Remember that the first four (4) characters of the designator indicate the bandwidth. Refer to CFR Rule Section 2.201. If I am correcting the coordinates on a point-to-point microwave modification, do I need to complete the path data? On a modification application, you need to correct only the data that you are changing. If you are correcting only coordinates and you are not changing anything for the path data, then you do not need to complete the path supplement. When completing an application, why doesn't the "without appurtenances and structure type" information pre-fill when it is in the ASR database? These fields should be pre-filled with data from ASR when the applicant enters the registration number. If this situation is not occurring, then these fields might be NULL in the ASR database. If I filed in megabits, then do I need to amend my application? The FCC changed the data collection for digital modulation rate from mbps to kbps to accommodate some of the Narrowband systems, such as MAS. Instead of receiving small numbers for these systems via truncation and rounding, we changed the units. For the Wideband systems, this process means that the numbers will be large, but they will be accurate (i.e., no truncation or rounding is necessary). You should file an amendment to correct any application that you have previously filed with incorrect data for the digital modulation rate. WaiverHow do I file a waiver on Form 601? You must complete the main Form 601 and answer "Yes" to question 8A. Then Upload File Attachments. Work in ProgressWhy doesn't the date on the intermediate filing (work in progress) screen change when I make a change to an incomplete application? The software updates the "date entered" only when a change is made to application-level information (e.g., name, address, certifications) or when the application is submitted. The FCC's software development contractor is researching this issue. Filing Form 602 (Ownership Attachments)What is the purpose of Form 602? Form 602 for auctionable wireless services and common carrier services allows you to submit ownership information in conjunction with license applications, renewals, license assignments, and transfers of control. The disclosure requirements are set forth in Sections 1.919 and 1.2112(a) of the FCC's rules. See 47 CFR §§ 1.919, 1.2112(a). Who is subject to Form 602 filing requirements? All applicants and licensees in services that are subject to licensing by auction and common carrier services under Section 309(j) of the Communications Act and Section 1.2102 of the FCC's rules are subject to Form 602 filing requirements. Auctionable services include all wireless services other than those specifically exempted from competitive bidding procedures pursuant to Section 1.2102(b) and 1.2102(c) of the FCC's rules. Applicants and licensees in the following exempt services are not subject to Section 1.2112 or Form 602 filing requirements: Must I as a licensee in auctionable services file Form 602, even if I did not obtain my license by auction? Yes. As an applicant or licensee in auctionable services, you are subject to Form 602 filing requirements even if your particular application does not trigger an auction (e.g., because no mutually exclusive application is filed) or the license was granted by some means other than auction (e.g., lottery, first-come, first-served procedures). For example, cellular and other common carrier licensees who obtained their licenses by lottery before the FCC obtained auction authority are subject to Form 602 filing requirements when they apply for assignment, transfer, or renewal of the license. When must I file or update Form 602? The requirement to file or to update Form 602 is triggered by your filing of Will I need to file Form 602 if the original Form 430 information is correct and already filed? Yes. Rule Section 47 CFR 1.919 requires you as a Part 22, 24, 26, and 27 license holder to file Form 602 (i.e., the ULS Ownership Form) simultaneously upon renewal, if you do not have one already on file. NOTE: You must also file Form 602 if you If I am filing a Short Form 175 (Application to Participate in an FCC Auction), am I required to file Form 602? No. Auction applicants should not file Form 602 at the short-form stage, although they may be subject to separate ownership disclosure requirements in conjunction with filing Form 175. In the auction context, only the auction winner is required to file Form 602, and the requirement applies at the time the winner files its long-form application. Can I use Form 602 to establish eligibility for Designated Entity treatment? No. You must establish Designated Entity (DE) status (e.g., small business eligibility for bidding credits) at the Short Form 175 (Application to Participate in an FCC Auction) stage by providing detailed information regarding your ownership, control, and revenues as required by Section 1.2110. Form 602 does not collect this information and cannot be used to establish DE eligibility. At the long-form stage, both DE and non-DE applicants must file or update Form 602, but DE applicants must also provide additional information as required by Section 1.2112(b) of the rules that is not required of non-DE applicants and that is not collected on Form 602. The rules require Form 602 to be filed in conjunction with an assignment application. Does this requirement apply to the assignor or to the assignee? Assignees must file or update Form 602 if they do not have a current Form 602 on file. Assignors may also file or update Form 602, but they are not required to do so. An "assignee" is the person or entity that is applying to become or control the licensee or the authorizations listed in an application. What is an "assignor"? When filing a Form 602 in conjunction with a transfer of control application, should I provide information regarding my pre-transfer or my proposed post-transfer ownership structure? When you file Form 602 in conjunction with a transfer of control application, you should provide information on the form based on the anticipated post-transfer ownership structure that will exist after FCC approval (if necessary) has been obtained and the transaction has been completed. Can I file Form 602 electronically? Not at the present time. The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) is in the process of developing electronic filing capability for the Form 602. When electronic filing is available, details will be announced by Public Notice. Where do I file Form 602 manually? Applicants and licensees filing Form 602 manually should send it to:
1270 Fairfield Road Gettysburg, PA 17325-7245 Can I get a stamp-and-return copy of Form 602? Yes. To obtain a stamp-and-return copy, you must provide an original and one copy of Form 602 with a self-addressed stamped return envelope. The FCC will date stamp and return the copy in the envelope provided. Is a fee required to file or to update Form 602? No. Do I need to file Form 602 (Ownership Attachment) before I participate in an auction? No. You will need to file Form 602 only if you are an auction winner. Since the ULS software is purpose-drive, Form 602 will become available once you select the license type. You will file Form 602 when you file Form 601 and submit your first down payment. Form 602 can be manually filed only; they are not available for online filing. NOTE: FCC Form 175 with a separate Ownership Attachment is filled out prior to Auction. I am confused by Form 602 (4b). Is this only a description of business or the percent of interest held? Form 602 (4b) requires only a description of the business (e.g., broadcast station, cellular, or wireless telecom). I have a Form 430 on file. Do I have to file updated ownership information? You must file updated ownership information unless If these conditions are met, then no updated filing is required. If I need to update a previously filed Form 430, can I file an updated Form 430 instead of Form 602? Applicants and licensees may use Form 430 instead of Form 602 to provide updated ownership information until NOTE: Form 430 does not collect all ownership information required to be reported pursuant to Sections 1.919 and 1.2112(a) of the rules. Therefore, when using Form 430, you should use attachments to provide the additional information. Can I file Form 602 as an attachment to Form 603 or 601 instead of filing it separately in Gettysburg? No. While a copy of Form 602 may be used as an attachment to provide supplementary information to Form 601 or 603, this is not a substitute for the requirement that the original Form 602 be filed separately in accordance with the above procedures. In addition to filing Form 602 in Gettysburg, can I attach a copy of Form 602 as an attachment to Form 601 or 603? Yes. You may submit ownership information as an attachment to Form 601 or Form 603 by attaching a copy of your current FCC Form 602 as an exhibit. This may be done electronically by converting the form to an electronic text file that is uploaded with the application.
Will the public be able to see Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) information entered on Form 602? No. TIN information entered on the form will be kept confidential, and copies of Form 602 made available to the public will have the TIN fields blocked out to prevent inadvertent disclosure.
Can I file a single Form 602 for multiple licenses? Yes. You are required to submit only a single FCC Form 602 for all applications submitted or licenses held. Once you file Form 602 initially, it is not required to refile the form with subsequent applications, regardless of service, so long as the ownership information on the previously filed Form 602 has not changed. A corporate entity holds licenses through multiple corporate subsidiaries. Must I file a separate Form 602 for each subsidiary? In general, you must file a separate Form 602 for each entity that holds licenses and is identified by a separate TIN in ULS. Therefore, if a corporate entity holds licenses through multiple subsidiaries and each subsidiary is registered under a separate TIN, then you should file a separate form for each. (As discussed below, information contained on one subsidiary's form may be incorporated by reference in the other forms.) However, if a parent entity holds licenses through multiple wholly owned subsidiaries, it may file a single Form 602 on behalf of the parent and list the subsidiary licensees, even if each subsidiary is registered in ULS under a separate TIN.
Form 602 main form (Item 4) requires the licensee/applicant to list "Related FCC Regulated Businesses" of the applicant/licensee. What information should be listed here, and what should be listed on Schedule A, which requests similar information? The purpose of this section on the main form is to identify other FCC-regulated businesses in which the applicant/licensee itself has a ten percent (10%) or greater ownership interest. Schedule A collects the same information concerning "disclosable interest holders" (i.e., persons and entities above the applicant/licensee in the ownership chain).
What is an "FCC regulated business" that I must identify on Form 602? Does it include entities other than FCC licensees? The term "FCC regulated business" includes-but is not limited to-FCC licensees. It also includes entities that are not licensed by the FCC under Title III of the Communications Act but that provide communications services that are subject to FCC regulation under other provisions of the Act (e.g., wireline common carriers and cable television companies). What is a "disclosable interest holder" for purposes of Form 602, Schedule A? A disclosable interest holder is any person or entity that has an interest in a licensee that is required to be disclosed under Section 1.2112(a) of the FCC's rules, 47 CFR § 1.2112(a). A disclosable interest is any of the following: How are indirect interests calculated for purposes of determining whether the ten percent (10%) ownership threshold is met? Indirect interests are determined by successive multiplication of the ownership percentages in each link of the ownership chain, except that if the ownership percentage for any link in the chain exceeds fifty percent (50%) or represents actual control (e.g., general partners and limited liability corporation members are presumed to have actual control), it shall be calculated as a one hundred percent (100%) interest. If the product of the multiplication process is 10 percent or greater, the interest is disclosable.
Example 2: Same as Example 1, except that Company B is a partnership, and John and Jane are general partners. In this example, both John and Jane are deemed to have one hundred percent (100%) control of Company B. Therefore, both are disclosable interest holders in Licensee L. However, if John and Jane were limited partners in Company B (with ten percent [10%] and fifty percent [50%] equity interest in the partnership, respectively), their actual percentage interests would be used to calculate their interest in Licensee L and the result would be the same as in Example 1. Are corporate officers and directors who hold no direct or indirect ownership interest in the licensee considered "disclosable interest holders" that must be listed on Form 602? Not necessarily. Corporate officers and directors are not considered disclosable interest holders per se. The only circumstances under which an officer or director must be identified on Form 602 are This rule applies to disclosure of officers and directors of the licensee, if the licensee is a corporation. If an entity holds a license or a disclosable interest in a license through a vertical chain of subsidiaries, must each intermediate subsidiary in the chain be listed as a disclosable interest holder on Form 602? Intermediate subsidiaries need not be listed under these circumstances so long as the parent entity is listed on Form 602, Schedule A, as a disclosable interest holder and all required information concerning the parent is fully disclosed.
If the ownership structure of my license is particularly complex, can I attach a chart to the Form 602 in lieu of filling out information on the form? Yes. Items 5-10 on Schedule A request information from each disclosable interest holder in regard to the type of interest held in the applicant/licensee and the position of the interest holder in the ownership chain. In lieu of filling out these items, you may provide this information in a chart as an attachment to the form if this would simplify or clarify the presentation of the required information.
If I am filing Form 602s on behalf of related entities, can I incorporate information by reference from one Form 602 to another? Yes. For example, when filing multiple Form 602s on behalf of licensees that partially share a common ownership structure, you may designate one form as the "lead" form on which the common information is provided and cross-reference the lead form on other forms.
When a person or entity is identified as a disclosable interest holder in an applicant/licensee, what level of detail is required on Form 602, Schedule A, concerning "other FCC-regulated businesses" in which that person or entity has an interest? Item 11 on Schedule A requires the filer to identify "other FCC-regulated businesses" (besides the licensee) in which a disclosable interest holder has a ten percent (10%) or greater interest. For each identified business, the following information should be provided: Filing Form 603 (FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau Application for Assignments of Authorization and Transfers of Control)In an assignment or transfer of control, which party initiates the consummation filing? The consummation would be filed by the assignee/transfee (i.e., the person doing the buying). When doing a Transfer of Control or an Assignment, who initiates the process? An assignment/transfer would be initiated by the assignor/transfor (i.e., the person doing the selling). A client has an assignment of stock in a company that owns an FCC license (television station). Does this company need to inform the FCC of this information when doing an assignment? If a company owns 10% or greater in an FCC licensee, it would need to report this information on a Form 602 (Ownership Disclosure Information for the WTB Services), if the company does not already have a Form 602 on file with the FCC. Form 602 does need to be on file before an assignment can be filed. When a cellular license is transferred from a private company to a governmental entity, how should this information appear on an application? Question #44 on the paper Form 603 collects assignee/transfee type information. This question is found in the upper right-hand corner of the Assignee/Tranferee tab of the interactive Form 603. This could also be described in an attachment to the application. I am trying to do an assignment. I am the assignee trying to approve my part of the assignment, but the system is not allowing me to add Schedule A information or to submit for approval. Why? Check to make sure that the assignor has "approved" its part of the application. This should allow the assignee to log in (using the assignee's TIN) to the application and complete the appropriate sections. Why does Form 603 display certain fields in gray after I enter my Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)? The gray fields are filled automatically with information that is associated with your TIN information or other information that you have already provided on your application; therefore, you are not required to complete this information again. Does the FCC charge me per form or per call sign in regard to Form 603? Your charge depends on the radio service in question. We determine most fees by form, but some services do charge a fee per call sign. Check the Fee Filing Guide. When completing Form 603 manually and trying to determine my fees, I have trouble getting payment codes, types, and amounts of fees. What are these codes, types, and amounts of fees? All the services listed below can no longer be filed manually. Instead, they must be filed electronically. If I need to notify the FCC of pro forma assignment, what should I fill out on Form 603? You must complete the entire Form 603. How long do I have to "consummate" a consented AA (Assignment of Authorization) or TC (Transfer of Control) application? You have 180 days to consummate a consented AA or TC application. Can I file for an extension to consummate a consented AA (Assignment of Authorization) or TC (Transfer of Control) application? Yes. You must use Schedule E of Form 603. How long does it take for the FCC to consent to an assignment? If the FCC releases an assignment via Public Notice (PN), it remains on public notice for thirty (30) days, and there is a wait period of forty-five (45) days. Our goal is to process the assignment ninety (90) days. Typically, though, we process the assignment in fifty-five (55) days. When doing a partitioning transaction on Form 603, Schedule B, I find that certain types of partitioned areas are difficult to describe using the required coordinate information. For example, what happens if the assignor is keeping the central core of its market while partitioning the outlying portions to the assignee? Because the partitioning schedule calls for the coordinates of the area being partitioned to the assignee, this type of "donut-hole" partition (i.e., where the assignor keeps the center of the market area) has reportedly caused difficulties for applicants. To describe such a transaction, the applicant must break the area to be assigned down into one or more polygons, whose composite area is identical to the area being assigned. The "undefined area" specifications allow an applicant to submit coordinates (as few as 3, but as many as 120) to describe each polygon. In the future, we will investigate various interfaces that will make such transactions easier to describe. When I fill out Form 603 for an assignment and use Print Preview, the form does not print out call sign information. Why? Be sure that you have both selected the call signs and clicked on the "Assign" button, which causes the identified call signs to appear in the "To Be Assigned" field of the form. Until you use the "Assign" button, the call sign data will not appear on a Print Preview of the form. Filing Form 605 (Quick-Form Application for Authorization in the Ship, Aircraft, Amateur, Restricted and Commercial Operator, and General Mobile Radio Services [GMRS])AircraftWhere can I find information in regard to Aircraft radio services? You should go to http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/aviation/ to learn more information about Aircraft radio services. What form do I need to file with the FCC to obtain an Aircraft license? You need to file Form 605, Schedule C. You can file either manually or electronically. How much is the Aircraft license fee? The fee is $120.00 for a ten-year license. I have rented an aircraft, and I do fly internationally. What license do I need to obtain from the FCC? You will need to obtain a 753 permit. You also need to confirm that the owner of the aircraft does have a license for the aircraft. I want to renew my Aircraft license. What form do I use? You must file Form 605 either manually or electronically. AmateurWhere can I find information in regard to Amateur radio services? You should go to http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/amateur/aminfo.html to learn more information about Amateur radio services. Can I file my new Amateur application online? Yes. You can file a new Amateur online via a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC). Only a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator can file a new Amateur application. What form do I need to file with the FCC to obtain an Amateur Vanity license? You must file Form 605, Schedule D, along with a Form 159 (fee remittance). What form do I need to file with the FCC to obtain an Amateur Club license? You must file Form 610B. How do I file an Administrative Update (AU) for an Amateur license? You must file Form 605 and choose "AU" for your Purpose. You would file in this way for an address change. Do I have to send a copy of my Amateur license along with my Form 605 application? No. You are no longer required to send copies of old licenses with ULS applications. Can I file a Renewal/Modification (RM) to apply for a Vanity call sign? You do not want to file a Renewal/Modification (RM) to apply for a Vanity call sign. If your application is dismissed because the Vanity call that you are requesting is not available or has been issued to someone else, this application will not renew your current call sign. When applying for a Vanity call sign, you need to select Modification (MD) as your purpose. If your Vanity application is granted, then a ten-year license is issued and a renewal of your old call sign is no longer required.
My call sign will not come up in my pick list for a renewal. I have checked to assure that the call sign is associated with my Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and I do not have anything pending for this application. Why can't I get this call sign to appear on my pick list? You need to check to see if you are within your renewal window, which is ninety (90) days prior to the expiration date of your license. Also, if the license is expired, then it would not appear on your pick list. How does an Amateur Licensee file a change of address? To complete a change of address you will need FCC Form 605 (Main Form). The purpose of the filing would be Administrative Update "AU ". For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file electronically using the ULS you will need to utilize a Netscape Communicator Browser (i.e., 4.61; 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls. If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 1-888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. How does an Amateur file for a duplicate license? To file for a duplicate license you need FCC Form 605 (Main Form). The purpose of the filing will be Duplicate License "DU". For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls. If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 888-225-5322, select option #2 after recording. When can I renew my Amateur license? You can renew your Amateur license (or any other FCC license) ninety (90) days prior to the expiration date of that license. How does an Amateur file for renewal? A renewal can be filed 90 days prior to the expiration date of a call sign. To complete a renewal of your license the FCC Form 605 (Main Form and/or associated schedules) is required. The purpose of the filing will either be Renewal Only "RO" or Renewal/Modification "RM". Renewal Only will be selected to renew an existing license that has not expired and where no changes in the license are being requested. Renewal/Modification will be selected to renew an existing license and request changes to that license (i.e., address, telephone, email, etc.) For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file electronically via the ULS you will need to use a Netscape Communicator Browser (4.61; 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls.
2) Enter your TIN (taxpayer identification number) and Password. If you do not have your password or have forgotten it please call Technical Support 202-414-1250 for assistance. 3) Click on Select New Filing. FOR RENEWAL ONLY: FOR RENEWAL/MODIFICATION: If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. How do I upgrade my Amateur class license? After taking the required exam with a volunteer examiner, your application will be forwarded to a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) for submission to the FCC. Only a VEC can submit upgrade applications to the FCC for processing. I was overcharged on my credit card for an Amateur Vanity application. How do I get a refund? To apply for a refund, you will need to write a letter to the FCC containing the following information: You must then mail this letter to:
1270 Fairfield Road Gettysburg, PA 17325 Where do I send my Form 605 application after I complete it? If there is a fee involved, you must send your application to the lock box address at Mellon Bank. Otherwise, you must mail it to 1270 Fairfield Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325-7245. A lock box is an assigned mailing area for specific services at Mellon Bank. General MobileWhere can I find General Mobile radio services? You should go to http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/prs/genmbl.html to learn more about General Mobile radio services. Restricted and Commercial OperatorWhere can I find information in regard to Restricted and Commercial Operator radio services? You should go to http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/commoperators/ to learn more about Restricted and Commercial Operator radio services. ShipWhere can I find information in regard to Ship radio services? You should go to http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/marine to learn more information about Ship radio services. Filing Form 606 (TIN Registration Form)My Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) registration went through, but why is the screen that is supposed to display my information blank? You need to use the Netscape browser for your filings in ULS to work properly. (Seeing a blank screen is usually an indicator that you may be using a browser other than Netscape.) To get your confirmation information or to see if your registration was received, you should dial our Licensing Support Hotline (888-225-5322, select option 2 after the recording), and a representative will be able to give you this information over the phone. How do I add call signs that I forgot to include in my original Form 606? Click on the "TIN/Call Sign Registration" button from the ULS application filing screen by selecting "Update Call Sign/ASR Information." I cannot type all of my Employer Identification Number (EIN) in the assigned box. What is the problem? You might be attempting to enter the number with all of the dashes in place. You must enter your EIN with no spaces or dashes. In Form 606, the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is registered under a name other than the licensee. How can I change the license so that the names match? You must file an application with the purpose of Administrative Update (AU). Do I need to register a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) before I send in my renewal application? Yes. You must register your TIN before you file your renewal application. I am trying to renew a paging license, and I have registered my Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). ULS, however, does not recognize my password. What should I do? Contact Technical Support. How long does it take for the FCC to process Form 606? If you file the form electronically, you can submit an application immediately after you enter your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). If you file the TIN Registration form manually, it may take approximately two (2) weeks for the Form 606 applications to be entered into the system. FormsWhere can I get the forms that I need to submit my applications? You can download forms from the forms page at www.fcc.gov/formpage.html, or by calling our toll free forms number (800-418-3676). Getting StartedHow do I file an application in ULS? To file an application electronically via ULS you will need to use a Netscape Communicator Browser 4.61, 4.75 version with windows application. Electronic filers would utilize web site: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls. If you are ready to start using the system you can click on the yellow buttons upper right at any time to register, file or search (applications/licenses). If you would like more information about Getting Started go to our Getting Started HELP documentation http://wtbwww05.fcc.gov/infoCenter/gettingStarted_1.html. Mandatory Electronic Filing/Waiver RequestsHow do I file a waiver on Form 601? You must complete the main Form 601 and answer "Yes" to question 8A. Then Upload File Attachments. I am required to file applications electronically via ULS and am experiencing technical difficulties. What should I do? The FCC realizes that there may be instances when a licensee experiences hardware problems, software problems, or problems with ULS. In these instances, you have three options: Are there any types of applications that cannot be filed electronically via ULS? Yes. The following types of applications cannot be filed electronically: In these cases, you should file your application manually and request a waiver of 47 C.F.R. § 1.904; we will grant the waiver in these cases because electronic filing is not possible. Alternatively, for two-step ownership changes, you may phone ULS Technical Support at (202) 414-1250. Technical Support will put you in touch with staff who can describe options for filing electronically, depending on your particular scenario. How do I file a two-step ownership change via ULS? Recently, applicants have requested the ability to file both steps of two-step ownership changes simultaneously and have the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) consider them together, with unified consent and consummation dates. For example, an applicant may want to file an assignment from A to B and B to C. Only the first step (i.e., the A to B part) may be filed electronically via ULS at this time. We recommend that you call ULS Technical Support and have them put you in touch with WTB staff members who have expertise in this area to resolve your particular situation. Two solutions that have been used in past months are In either case, WTB staff members need to do work behind the scenes to enable simultaneous consideration of these applications. How do I file an application that requires a waiver of the rules (e.g., I want to request more power than the rules allow, but ULS gives me an error)? When submitting an application, you may answer "Yes" to the waiver question and select "Attachments" and choose Attachment Type = "Waiver" to upload a waiver request. For example, the rules limit your transmitter power to 100 watts, but you would like to request a waiver to use 200 watts. In this situation, ULS will give you an error message unless you Even if you answer the waiver question "Yes," ULS will still generate an error message if the specified parameter is outside of what is provided in the rules. However, in these instances you may select the "Continue" button on the error message screen to save your data and to continue with the application. How do I file a Paging Application where I propose to use an FM broadcast subcarrier? Infrequently, the FCC receives requests for paging licensees to use FM broadcast subcarriers with the consent of the broadcaster. Because of the power levels involved, this type of application cannot be filed electronically in the usual manner. We recommend that you answer "Yes" to the waiver in question and upload an attachment that includes the actual power levels, etc., that cannot be filed electronically via ULS. The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau staff will work with the database to put in the appropriate values. We also recommend that you contact ULS Technical Support prior to filing so that you can discuss any particulars of your application well in advance with WTB staff. How do I file an application that requires a waiver of the rules (e.g., if I want to request more power than the rules allow, the ULS gives me an error)? You need to file the application within the required limits for the particular filing. In your waiver request, you should put the information that you are requesting. Will ULS allow me to submit an application with errors, causing the system to dismiss it? No. ULS will not allow you to file an application with errors that would cause application dismissal. However, some areas programmed to accept a range may allow you to enter data not allowable for your applications service, and it could be returned for correction. ManualThe FCC told me that a T&A that I filed manually in September would not be entered until after the first of the year. What is the time frame for data entry of applications that I file manually? All applications that have been filed manually have been entered into ULS. The FCC recommends electronic filing of amendments. If an application that I submitted manually has not been entered into the system yet, how do I file an online amendment or modification to this application? In situations where you submitted a application manually, you must wait until it has been data entered into the ULS system to file an amendment electronically. Do I have to fill out manual applications completely? We advise anyone filing manually to fill out the application in its entirety to ensure that no information is missing when data entry staff is ready to key into system. This is especially important for services recently converted to ULS, where certain information that was not available in the Legacy databases is now required for ULS filings. Old FormsIs there going to be a replacement for the Form 415T? No. Form 415T will be eliminated. I experienced difficulty filing an amendment to Form 415. What should I do? You should use the ULA application query utility to view the application in question. If necessary, you should file an amendment. How long is the FCC retaining the 415T? We will retain the 415T at least until March 1, 2000. After this date, we either will extend the period or eliminate the requirement to use the 415T. PackWhat is a "pack," and how do I register it? A pack is a set of applications that request a system or subsystem of microwave links be granted together. These links are related to the extent that they cannot or must not operate independently; therefore, they must all have the same grant date and construction deadline. You can register the pack online prior to the initial filing of the pack. When I file a pack, do I need to put the pack number on Form 159? No. When I file packs, each application is given a file number. Even if the applications are incomplete, I cannot change anything in the application. How do I amend an application that is part of a pack? An incomplete application will not receive a file number. If you need to make corrections to an incomplete application, you will need to log in and click on the link for incomplete application. Your application should load at this point, and you can make corrections. If your application were part of a pack, you would click on "Add to Pack" upon completion of the application. Once you add all applications to the pack, you would need to go to the Log In screen, log in, and click on "Register/Submit Pack" to submit the entire pack of applications for processing. To amend an application that was part of a pack, you would log in and click on "Select New Filing." Then you would choose "Amendment" from the drop-down box and then click "Continue." The application that you need to amend will now load, and you will be able to make any corrections or additions at this time. Upon completion of your corrections, you will click on the "Add to Pack" button to add your application back into the pack. You then must go back out to the log in screen, log in, and click on the "Register/Submit Pack" button to submit the pack again.
I am filing applications as part of a pack, but each of these applications has different receipt dates. Will all of these applications still grant on the same day? Yes. That is the purpose of filing applications as part of a pack. I submitted a pack of eleven (11) applications, but one (1) of these applications is showing an incomplete status. How can this situation happen? You or someone else may have gone into the application for review after it was originally submitted. This review causes ULS to place the application into an incomplete status. You must click on the Add to Pack button, go to Log In, and click Submit Pack button to have the application resubmit to pack.
If I submit applications in a pack that require the same attachment, do I need to include the attachment in multiple applications? ULS does not associate an attachment with all applications of a pack, but only with the application that the attachment is specifically attached to. Can ULS add a confirmation message after an applicant adds an application to a pack? We currently issue a message when an application is successfully added to a pack: "Application has been added to Pack #." How do I remove an application from a pack? You simply amend to answer "No" to the pack question on the Schedule I and remove the pack registration number. Renewal/ExpirationA renewal can only be completed 90 days prior to the expiration date of that license. To complete a renewal of your license the FCC Form 601 (Main Form and/or associated schedules) is required. The purpose of the filing will either be Renewal Only "RO" or Renewal/Modification "RM". If you need to make a mailing address change it is advised to file an Administrative Update application prior to filing the renew application. Then submit a Renewal Only application to generate a new license period for your license. Renewal Only will be selected to renew an existing license that has not expired and where no changes in the license are being requested. Completing a Renewal Only you would only need to complete the 601 main form. Renewal/Modification would be used to renew an existing authorization, Special Temporary Authorization (STA), or developmental authorization and request a change in the conditions of that authorization. Completing a Renewal/Modification you would use 601 main form and schedules D & H for modifying technical data. For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via web site: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file an application electronically via ULS you will need to use a Netscape Communicator Browser (4.61, 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application.Electronic filers would utilize web site: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls.
2) Enter your TIN (taxpayer identification number) and Password. If you do not have your password or have forgotten it please call Technical Support 202-414-1250 for assistance. 3) Click on Select New Filing. FOR RENEWAL ONLY: FOR RENEWAL/MODIFICATION: If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (601) call the ULS/Auctions Hotline at 1-888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. How does an Amateur file for renewal? A renewal can be filed 90 days prior to the expiration date of a call sign. To complete a renewal of your license the FCC Form 605 (Main Form and/or associated schedules) is required. The purpose of the filing will either be Renewal Only "RO" or Renewal/Modification "RM". Renewal Only will be selected to renew an existing license that has not expired and where no changes in the license are being requested. Renewal/Modification will be selected to renew an existing license and request changes to that license (i.e., address, telephone, email, etc.) For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file electronically via the ULS you will need to use a Netscape Communicator Browser (4.61; 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls.
2) Enter your TIN (taxpayer identification number) and Password. If you do not have your password or have forgotten it please call Technical Support 202-414-1250 for assistance. 3) Click on Select New Filing. FOR RENEWAL ONLY: FOR RENEWAL/MODIFICATION: If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. What forms do I use to renew my paging license? Complete Form 601 (ULS Filing) and Form 602 (Ownership Attachment to Form 601) (47 CFR 1.919). Can I electronically access a manually filed application to make changes through ULS? Yes. You can electronically access manually filed applications via ULS for changes-but only after ULS processors have input the application data into the ULS system. By electronically filing an amendment to the original, manually filed application, you can make changes to the application, but, again, only after it appears in ULS and has a pending status.
I filed a timely cellular renewal. The call signs expired while the application was pending. The call signs disappeared from my pick list. What should I do? We placed new logic into production on November 2, 1999, to correct this situation. You will now have the option to select all active call signs for modification, even if it is after the expiration date. SignaturesCould the FCC add a separate signature line for consultants, similar to that on tax forms? The ULS Task Force is evaluating this recommendation. Filing By Radio Service
AmateurAdministrative update: Change of AddressHow does an Amateur Licensee file a change of address? To complete a change of address you will need FCC Form 605 (Main Form). The purpose of the filing would be Administrative Update "AU ". For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file electronically using the ULS you will need to utilize a Netscape Communicator Browser (i.e., 4.61; 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls. If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 1-888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. Duplicate LicenseHow does an Amateur file for a duplicate license? To file for a duplicate license you need FCC Form 605 (Main Form). The purpose of the filing will be Duplicate License "DU". For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls. If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 888-225-5322, select option #2 after recording. Renewal: Renew Only and Renew ModificationHow does an Amateur file for renewal? A renewal can be filed 90 days prior to the expiration date of a call sign. To complete a renewal of your license the FCC Form 605 (Main Form and/or associated schedules) is required. The purpose of the filing will either be Renewal Only "RO" or Renewal/Modification "RM". Renewal Only will be selected to renew an existing license that has not expired and where no changes in the license are being requested. Renewal/Modification will be selected to renew an existing license and request changes to that license (i.e., address, telephone, email, etc.) For a manual filing the appropriate form can be obtained via website: www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. To file electronically via the ULS you will need to use a Netscape Communicator Browser (4.61; 4.75, 4.76, 4.5 version) with windows application. Electronic filers would utilize website: www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls.
2) Enter your TIN (taxpayer identification number) and Password. If you do not have your password or have forgotten it please call Technical Support 202-414-1250 for assistance. 3) Click on Select New Filing. FOR RENEWAL ONLY: FOR RENEWAL/MODIFICATION: If assistance is needed in completing the manual or electronic form (605) call our ULS/Auctions Hotline at 888-225-5322, select option #2 after the recording. Antenna Structure RegistrationWhy do I need to put latitude/longitude information on the second location site if I have a tower registration number? Why can't I just put the Antenna Structure Registration number and have the system pull the information? ULS is programmed to pull Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) information for transmit locations only. Since the FCC required only coordinates and AMSL for receive locations, programming was not included to pull ASR information for receivers. ASR NumberHow do I change the ASR number if it is grayed out on the screen? When filing electronically, ULS will gray out fields that you cannot answer based on the type of filing or previous data entries. When a transmitter location is chosen for modification, ULS will allow data entry in the ASR number field if an ASR number is already present for that location. If there is no ASR number for that location, the field will be grayed out until you specify that the site has a registered antenna structure. What happens if the registration number I supply is invalid, or I make a typo? ULS will tell you if the number provided is invalid, and, consequently, it will not pre-fill any data. If you make a typo and accidentally enter a valid number, then ULS will pre-fill data for the number that you entered. At that point, you should realize that it is the wrong structure and then can change the registration number. If instead of providing a registration number I answer "N/A" (i.e., registration is not required), then what does ULS do? Generally, registration is not required for antenna structures less than 60.96 meters (200 feet) above the ground that are far from public-use airports. The registration criteria are described in detail on the FCC's website at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/antenna. If registration is not required for the Location in question, then you should select "N/A," provide the other Location data requested by the form (e.g., coordinates, elevation, height above ground) and hit "Save." ULS will then make sure that the structure is not more than 60.96 meters (200 feet) above ground and-using the TOWAIR software-make sure that the structure does not exceed the slope (defined in Part 17 of our Rules) extending from nearby public-use airports. If the data passes both of these tests, then the Location data will be saved and is then ready for submission to the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau. If the Location data fails either of the tests described above, then ULS will provide a descriptive error message when you try to submit the application. If you get an error message, then your only option is to hit the "Return" button. The application may not be submitted until you either change the data or provide additional information regarding your "N/A" response. Specifically, 47 C.F.R. § 17.14 provides three exceptions to the registration requirements such that-even though a structure may fail one of the tests above-registration is not required. These exceptions are "shielding," the "twenty-foot rule," and "fixed by function" at an airport. Note that ULS will generally be able to verify the "twenty-foot rule" scenarios online based on the structure type and height information provided, and therefore will usually not return an error message. As long as you do not get an error message, there is no need for you to go through the procedure below, which describes how to file an application that claims one of these exceptions. For example, suppose that you want to claim shielding of a structure that is well over 60.96 meters (200 feet) above ground because it is close to several buildings that are much taller than the antenna structure itself. Submit the Location data and click on the "Attachments" button at the bottom of the screen to upload a showing (i.e., a brief) that supports your claim of exception. Choose Attachment Type = "T-47 C.F.R. 17.14." Then upload the showing. Note that the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's staff will review each showing of this type, and, if the application is defective, the staff will dismiss the application. Clearance CheckWhat is the purpose of the new automated antenna structure clearance check? The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) is responsible for ensuring that antenna structures do not become a hazard to air navigation. It carries out this responsibility by Therefore, if the FCC requires registration, WTB will not allow an application to be filed without a valid registration number, unless, of course, it is accompanied by a request for a waiver. All towers that do not meet the glide slope and are over 60.96 meters (200 feet) require an FCC Form 854. Is there a software program or person whom I can contact to verify tower registrations and/or whether these towers require FAA filing for glide slope? You have several tools at your disposal to consider whether an application will be "cleared" with respect to antenna registration. Is there a software program or person whom coordinators can contact to verify tower registrations and/or whether they require FAA filing for glide slope? Both applicants and coordinators have several tools to use to discern whether an application will be "cleared" with respect to antenna registration. Either applicants or coordinators may ConstructionOnce I file a Form 854 to register a proposed tower, how long do I have to construct it? According to FCC rules, there is no time period in which to construct a tower after registration; however, you need to construct before the FAA study expires. Once a tower is constructed, you must notify FCC of construction within 24 hours. CoordinatesULS asks me to round up coordinates when I file with ASR. When I tried to search the ASR, I could not find registration number with the rounded coordinates. Instead, I found it under the FAA coordinates. Why does this problem occur? To evaluate this situation, we need the specific file numbers for the registration in question. In general, the antenna structure registrations are issued at the coordinates specified by the user. When searching for a specific structure, we recommend that you use a point radius search around a set of coordinates or search by the FAA study number, rather than looking for exact coordinates. Coordinates were rounded to the nearest tenth on an application. I received an error message that stated that the coordinates varied by more than one second and therefore would not allow me to enter the application. I entered the coordinates that were in the ASR database, and the coordinates did not vary by more than one second, contrary to what ULS indicated. Later, I was able to amend the application to change the coordinates. What caused this situation? Please provide us with the file numbers to allow the ULS Task Force to further research this problem. ErrorWhy does ULS give me an "Issue Date" or "Latitude/Longitude" error on my Form 854 application? When processing Form 854, the database will compare the coordinates, study number, heights, and date that the study was issued to the information in the FAA database. If the coordinates are in error by more than 0.3 seconds or if the issue date is not matching, then the program will give an error message that states the latitude/longitude and/or issue date do(es) not match. FAA DatabaseI understand that for certain antenna structures I must provide an FCC Antenna Registration Number when I file a license application. However, I do not know whether an FAA study has been completed for the structure where I intend to locate the antenna. Is there a database that contains this information? FAA records are posted under "Downloads" on the ASR homepage. Or you can contact the Licensing Support hotline (888-225-5322, option 2) and a representative can verify this information for you.
TOWAIR determines whether structures less than 60.96 meters (200 feet) above ground require registration. What information do I need when I run TOWAIR? Does height information have to be in meters or feet? To use TOWAIR, you must supply the coordinates of the site, the site elevation, and the overall height of the structure. The software allows you to enter data in feet or in meters. The FCC maintains database files (in "zip" format) on its Internet website for its licensing databases, as well as the Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) database. How frequently are the zip files updated? How often does the FCC update the list of airports, which is required to run TOWAIR? License and registration zip files are updated weekly. The FAA updates the airport data, which is used by TOWAIR, approximately every fifty-six (56) days. Where do I obtain the most accurate tower registration information if we cannot obtain this information from the owner? According to 47 CFR § 17.4(f), owners are required to provide a copy of the antenna registration (FCC Form 854-R) to you and every other tenant licensee immediately upon registration. Information regarding antenna structures registered with the FCC is available in "zip" files that you can download from the Internet at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb under the heading "WTB Database Files." Also, the FCC's Licensing Support (888-CALL-FCC, select option 2 after recording) is a resource to verify whether a structure is registered. FilingWhy can't I file modifications to a tower until it is constructed? In cases where you want to modify a registration prior to the construction of a tower, you need to cancel the current registration and file a new one, which reflects the modified data. The FCC put this restriction in place to promote air safety by ensuring that a notice of construction can be filed only against the approved registration record. The ULS Task Force will re-evaluate this restriction. If the ASR number in the ASR database does not come up on the application when filing a modification, what should I do? You should add the ASR number to your license record at the time of modification if the antenna structure being used is registered. What if I disagree with the Location data pre-filled by ULS? As a threshold matter, the data pre-filled by ULS is supplied in real-time from our Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) database. The owner of the structure provided this data via FCC Form 854, and the owner is required to provide you (as a tenant licensee) a copy of the registration. You can verify registration information on the Internet at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/antenna. Furthermore, the structure in question was registered with the FCC in concurrence with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) determination of no hazard issued to the structure. As a result, the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau will not generally approve construction of facilities that exceed the parameters approved by the FAA. What if I surveyed the site myself and believe that the data supplied by the owner is incorrect, yet I must file my application today (i.e., I have no time to work with the owner to resolve the situation)? We recommend that you resolve this issue directly with the owner well in advance so that the registration database (and consequently the pre-filled data) represents the true Location data. The owner may modify information and correct the problem quickly online using our new Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) system to file an application electronically. However, we realize that in some circumstances, a new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) determination may be required (e.g., the site coordinates are off by more than one second). In this situation, then, the FCC has provided a means to submit the application, even though ULS realizes that we cannot clear the tower online. To file an application even though the Location data is inconsistent with the FCC's registration database, answer "Yes" to the waiver question on the first tab of Form 601 and submit an attachment that requests a waiver of the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's Unified Dismissal Policy. Be sure to justify your request. Then, when you go back to the Location tab, supply the registration number and edit the pre-filled data. (ULS will give you the same error message but now will give you the option to "Continue" and save the Location data.) Requesting a waiver will allow you to file the application and obtain a receipt date. Please note, however, that unless the waiver request is granted, your application will be dismissed. SearchI received a letter stating that my antenna information on the application does not match the FAA determination. How do I correct this problem? You first need to determine whether the application information is correct or if the antenna registration is correct. If the application information is correct, then you first need to modify the ASR information and then to submit an amendment application with an attachment stating that ASR has been corrected. If application information is incorrect, then you only need to submit an amendment application correcting the data. The Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) system has granted my application, but I have no registration number. What should I do? Perform an ASR Search by address or some other field. You must look at the second tab (Results: Registrations) on the Search page to see the registered information. The first tab (Results: Applications) shows only the applications filed. ShieldingTowers that are shielded did not require registration. I responded to a letter that was sent out from ITD during the Summer of 2000, which indicated that the tower was shielded, but my application was returned for not having a registration number. Is there any way to indicate in ULS that the tower is shielded and to prevent this type of return? The ITD letter that we sent to you was part of a follow-up effort to identify towers that appeared to require registration with the FCC by July 1, 1998, based upon our licensing records. This letter was an enforcement initiative independent of conversion of the antenna registration database to ULS. For antenna structures that are shielded and that do not require registration as specified in 47 C.F.R § 17.14, you need to submit a Section 17.14 attachment with each license application filed that proposes to use the shielded antenna structure. The attachment must describe the specific situation and detail the reason that the antenna structure does not need registration. The only way to indicate that a tower is shielded is to place it in the record (i.e., to register it). Because shielded towers are exempt from the registration requirement, the FCC will not have a record of it in the ASR files unless the owner elects to register the shielded tower. SignatureHow do I handle a dismissal for lack of a signature on an interactive application? You are not able to submit an application interactively without a signature. If you receive a dismissal of an interactive filed application for no signature, then contact Technical Support at 202-414-1250. NOTE: The FCC notes a situation where an applicant filed an ASR application electronically, but she also attached a paper copy to her license application for the site. The Gettysburg staff attempted to process the paper application but dismissed it due to lack of a valid signature. Thus, two applications existed for the same site-a granted application filed electronically and a dismissed application filed manually (i.e., by paper). Because the applicant did not realize that her paper attachment had been processed, she believed that her electronic registration had been dismissed for lack of a signature. To avoid this situation, applicants should reference only the ASR number on licensing applications and not attach a paper copy of Form 854. TIN RegistrationWhen I submit a new ASR registration and I get the registration number back, ULS does not automatically update the TIN registration. Is there a way that this update can be done? If you are filing the application in ULS, then there is no reason to update TIN registration. TIN registration is used to associate pre-existing call signs or ASR numbers with a TIN during conversion to ULS. When do I update the TIN call sign ASR registration? You need to associate your TIN with a call sign or ASR number that is not currently associated with a TIN. If the call sign or ASR number was issued through ULS, then it will be associated with the TIN. There is no need to update the record. Tech SupportIs ASR filing going to be available via the Internet as well? Is it on the same schedule as the other filings? Why does ASR run so slowly, and what improvements can we expect to see? Internet filing has been available since April 29, 2000. Because applicants have noted that the ASR system is particularly slow, the improvements to this system will primarily be technical in nature and will focus on decreasing the time it takes to file ASR applications. Tower OwnerA company has filed a Form 854 claiming ownership of a tower, but it is not the owner. How can this situation be corrected? When an ownership change for a tower is granted, the previous owner will receive a notification from the FCC. This notification will instruct the previous owner to send correspondence if he/she believes that the ownership change to be in error. I want to do an ownership change in the Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) system. Who should log in, the previous owner or the new owner? The new owner should log in to start the process of the ownership change. If a tower owner is unwilling or unable to register a structure, then how should I as a licensee go about filing an application that involves the site? Would the FCC grant a Special Temporary Authorization (STA) if there were to be a delay that is caused by the owner's failure to register in a timely manner? During the period from July 1996-July 1998, the FCC required that all pre-existing antenna structures-for which FAA notification of proposed construction is required-be registered with the FCC. The owner is responsible for registering the structure and providing a copy of the registration to all tenant licensees. (NOTE: To register the structure with the FCC, the owner must provide a FAA determination of "No Hazard.") The FCC also requires that the owner register newly built structures prior to construction. When locating on an existing structure, you should be able to provide registration information (if the owner is in compliance). In cases where the owner is unable or unwilling to provide registration information, you may request a waiver of the instant dismissal policy. If registration is required for a structure, then you as a licensee must provide a valid registration number or request waiver of the instant dismissal policy. Waiver requests and STA requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. It is unlikely, however, that the FCC would authorize operation from a structure that requires registration if you cannot provide a determination of "No Hazard" as issued by the FAA.
Broadcast AuxillaryI submitted a number of broadcast auxiliary applications prior to August 2000, and the FCC is returning these applications to me for errors such as "missing contact information." Is there anything that I can do to prevent these types of returns? If you are experiencing this problem, call 1-888-CALL-FCC and press option 2. The Consumer Assistance Staff will provide you with further information. CellularWill ULS accept a cellular application if it has an invalid market number? No. ULS is programmed to recognize each of the standard market areas, including the cellular markets, by number. If you enter an invalid market number, then ULS will not allow you to proceed. You should note that ULS does not recognize the prefixes "MSA" and "RSA"; rather, it recognizes Cellular Market Areas (CMAs) where MSA001 = CMA001 and RSA300 = CMA300, etc. This layout eliminates having two different prefixes for cellular market areas. In ULS, how do I as a cellular applicant specify sectored antennas in my application? In the past, the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) has provided guidance to applicants concerning the filing of sectored antennas within cellular systems. To reiterate, the WTB allows you to specify a site with sectored antennas by Mass MediaAre there plans to put MMDS information into ULS? Is Mass Media going to make its system Internet accessible for getting information on its auctions? MMDS is a service administered by the Mass Media Bureau and will be part of its licensing database. We do not know what plans the Mass Media has for making licensing information available. What are the required fields for MAS filing? If you are filing interactively, then the fields that you need to complete are white; everything else is grayed out. You should refer to the instructions for Schedule I of the Form 601 for further details on MAS filings. MicrowaveAs a microwave licensee, when do I have to file a notification of construction? How do I know that I need to file the notification? Notification of construction is required for grants of new or modified licenses made or on after August 30, 1999, that implement a new frequency on any given path (i.e., new operations or modification to existing operation to add a frequency to path). See Schedule K instruction of Form 601. You should notify the FCC after completion of construction but within 15 days of the expiration of the construction period (see 47 C.F.R. § 1.946(d)). ULS will send you a notification reminder letter 90 days prior to expiration of the construction period. I am confused by identifying path numbers for paths that have been converted from the legacy system. How are paths numbered in ULS? When selecting a path to add a frequency, how do I know that I have selected the correct path? Converted Microwave licenses should have the same path numbers in ULS that they had in the legacy system (ILS). However, some differences could result due to the conversion of the old microwave database to ULS. In ULS, a microwave license has one transmitter site. This site can have one or more paths, and each path can have one or more frequencies. In general, azimuth and polarization define the path. To verify path numbers, a licensee should look up her call sign(s) using the license query tools available on the ULS web page. NOTE: In ULS, path numbers are not re-sequenced when a path is deleted. For example, if a licensee has a system with 5 paths (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) and deletes path 3, then the result is a license with 4 paths, having path numbers 1, 2, 4, 5. If the licensee adds a new path, then the resulting system will have 5 paths, having path numbers 1, 2, 4, 5, 6. If I add a frequency, how do I know which path to select? To ascertain path numbers, you should look up its pending applications or call sign(s) using the query tools available on the ULS web page. Is there a limit to the number of paths and frequencies that I can have? No. The Main Form 601 asks whether I provide interconnected service. Since I am a Microwave Point-to-Point applicant who connects to the phone system but do not carry Common Carrier Traffic, do I need to worry about this question? No. When registering a point-to-point microwave in one direction, the system does not ask for antenna information on the receive end. What impact does this situation have for receiver-only sites where the receiver is not a transmitter? You need to file a Schedule I, Supplement 1 (Location Data) from Form 601 for each receive location. Supplement 2 (Path Data) collects receive antenna information in the Final Receiver section. How many sheets of each page of Schedule I do I need? The number of sheets (supplements) that you need depends on how many locations and paths that you are filing for in that application.
How many copies of Schedule I, Supplement 1, do I need to file? File one copy for the transmit site and an additional sheet for each of the receive and/or passive repeater sites. I filed several microwave applications for modifications. The instructions state-in Schedule I, Supplement 4-that I need to complete only the information that I am changing from the current authorization. This is what I did. So why did the FCC return these applications to me? The FCC returned these applications to you because they were not originally filed through ULS. Since these applications were not originally filed through ULS, you must complete Schedule I as completely as possible -- and not only the items that you are modifying. Once you file an application and it is granted through ULS, however, you can file modifications by addressing only the items that you are modifying.
I was told if I filed my microwave application electronically via ULS, the system would not accept an application with errors. Why did my application get returned stating "beamwidth exceeded allowable limits"? Because of the many variations of technical information required in the microwave service, some of the required fields are programmed to accept a "range" of information. This programming allows you to submit the application so that a processor can review this information and return it to you for amendment if your technical information is not falling within the parameters for what you are requesting. Partitioning and DisaggregationHow do I read the data in the Frequencies/Partitions screen in the license database? Frequencies (MHz) associated with channel block specified above (reference only) Licensed Frequencies, except as specified below (MHz) Defined Partitioned Areas (MHz) Undefined Partitioned Areas (MHz) * Please click to view examples of the frequencies/partitions screen. Register
BusinessHow do I register with ULS - as a Business? To file a first-time registration with the ULS, follow the steps below. IndividualHow do I register with ULS as an individual? To file a first-time registration with the ULS, follow the steps below. PasswordsWhat is a password? Where do I get one? You assign your own password online when you register your TIN with the FCC. It is similar to the PIN that you get from a bank when it first gives you an ATM card. Your password must be from 5 to 30 characters long and can be any combination of letters or numbers. Additionally, passwords are case sensitive. For example, "Password" is different from "password." What is the Corporate or Personal Identifier? Under what circumstances will this identification be used? The Corporate or Personal Identifier is a code word that you assign to yourself when you register your TIN with the FCC. This identifier provides a second measure of security, so you can identify yourself if you happen to forget your password. Like the password, the Corporate or Personal Identifier must be from 5 to 30 characters long and can be any combination of letters or numbers. Unlike your password, your Corporate or Personal Identifier is not case sensitive. I forgot my password. What is it? If you forget your password, then simply call (202) 414-1250, and a member of the Technical Support staff can reset your password. You will be required to prove your TIN and Corporate or Personal Identifier to verify your identity. NOTE: To ensure security of ULS, we cannot give out password information over the telephone. I want to change my password. How do I do it? From your web browser: TIN/EINs, Call SignTIN stands for Taxpayer Identification Number. A TIN is a 9-digit identifier that the IRS requires of all individuals and businesses/employers to identify their tax accounts. For an individual, the TIN is the person's Social Security Number. For a business, it is the company's IRS-issued Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you do not know your TIN, then you can usually obtain this information from your payroll or accounting department. I registered my TIN and then realized that I had mistyped it. What should I do? The FCC can correct the TIN for you. Call (202) 414-1250, and a member of the Technical Support Staff can collect the necessary data from you to correct the error(s). I am with a not-for-profit organization (or state/local government agency) that does not have a TIN. What should I use? You should use your Employer Identification Number (EIN). All employers-including state/local government agencies and non-profit agencies-have an EIN because they either withhold taxes for their employees or they have applied for not-for-profit status. EIN stands for Employer Identification Number. It is the number that the IRS uses to identify the tax account of a business/employer. All employers, including state/local government agencies and non-profit agencies, have an EIN because they either withhold taxes for their employees or have applied for not-for-profit status. What if I am assigning a license in ULS to an entity that does not have a TIN or has applied for one but not yet received it? In limited instances, a party is not required by law to obtain a TIN from the IRS. Furthermore, some transactions are initiated prior to an entity obtaining a TIN. In both cases, you should contact Technical Support at (202) 414-1250 to obtain an FCC-generated identification number to substitute as a TIN for the filing in question. In the latter case, once the party obtains a TIN from the IRS, it should advise the FCC staff in writing so that Technical Support can register the party under the newly obtained TIN. Why do I register my TIN with the FCC? The Debt Collection Improvement Act (DCIA) of 1996 requires that the FCC collect this information. NOTE: Congress enacted the DCIA as part of an effort to increase collection of delinquent government debts. As a result of the DCIA, the FCC and other executive agencies are required to collect TINs from each entity doing business with a Federal agency, including applicants for or recipients of a Federal license or permit. In addition, the TIN will be used as a unique identifier for each licensee within ULS. The TIN, along with a user-selected password, will provide licensees access to their licensing records in order to renew or modify their licenses. I am with a not-for-profit organization that does not pay taxes. Do I have to file? Yes. The Debt Collection Improvement Act requires the collection of TINs/EINs from all private entities that conduct business with the Federal government. I am with a state/local government agency that does not pay taxes. Do I have to file? Yes. Aside from the Debt Collection Improvement Act requirements to collect TINs, the TIN will be used as a unique identifier for you within ULS. The TIN, along with you own selected password, will provide you access to your licensing record to renew or to modify your license. My towers and radios belong to me, not the FCC. Why do I have to file? Although the equipment belongs to you, the FCC regulates telecommunications transmissions and the radio towers used for these transmissions. All entities regulated by the FCC must register their TIN with the FCC, as specified by the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996. What does the FCC do with filing information? As a result of the Debt Collection Act of 1996, the US Treasury requires the FCC and executive agencies to monitor and to provide information about their regulatees. Why should I register on the web and not by paper? Should you wish to amend your call sign report or need to report a change of address, the easiest way is to make these changes over the web using your password-protected and encrypted account. Even though you can still register by paper form, electronic filing is considerably quicker for registering and amending information. Will anyone other than myself be able to access my TIN registration data? No. Not unless she knows your TIN and password. My company has multiple departments. Is there any way that each department can register its own call signs? No. Because each entity has only one TIN, the FCC needs to have a single point of contact for the TIN registration. As with our current licensing system, each of your licenses will continue to have its own point of contact. How do I get into the ULS system if my TIN and password have been used already? Once someone registers a TIN and sets up a password for that TIN, this specific TIN is the only password that ULS will recognize. If a group of people in an organization were to access the website, all of them will have to use the same password. NOTE: A good approach to this situation is to let a particular individual within an organization serve as the contact person, who would then perform all operations that involve the FCC. There is a place to enter the name and phone number of a contact person when a TIN is registered. A call sign is an FCC-issued identifier for each station licensed by the FCC. Call signs in the US generally begin with a "W," "K," or "N" and consist of a combination of between three and nine letters and numbers. For example, KAA2 (aeronautical) and WZZZZ (aircraft telephone) are call signs. How can I find out what my call signs are? From you web browser: Will registering my TIN also serve as a registration for my call signs? No. First you register your TIN, then you register your call signs. These tasks are separate. I have replaced my walkie-talkies and truck radios with cellular phones. Do I need to register call signs for these phones? You do not have to register cellular phones, the new digital PCS systems, and pagers. These systems have already been identified to the FCC by the cellular, digital PCS, or paging company providing you with the service. How do I know that the FCC received my Form 606? If you want to check that your TIN and call signs were registered with the FCC and you filed electronically, then you can use your TIN and password to enter ULS to check to see if your data is present. Also, the FCC can check ULS for you. NOTE: If you filed a paper Form 606, then you can still access the system electronically by establishing a password. The FCC has set up a temporary password for you. To change it to what you want, follow the directions in Procedure to Change a Password. I registered a TIN with the associated call signs, and a few days later I could not retrieve the registration. Why did this situation occur? This situation seems to be an isolated incident, and similar instances have not been reported. We are not sure why they problem occurred. Please contact our technical support staff if this situation occurs again. When completing an application, my information is pulled from the TIN database, so why isn't the fax number and email fields completed? TIN, fax number, and email address is provided by the TIN table but only for new applications. What does the FCC mean by "associated valid call sign"? Your call sign is listed on your FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau license. Your radio operators will know where your licenses are; they should be posted near the point where they are used. Call signs other than those issued by the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau do not have to be registered by this time. For example, broadcast call signs are issued by the Mass Media Bureau and do not have to be registered. You can also look up your call signs on the web. Go to the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau homepage at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/. Under the General Information Section, click on the link for "Search the WTB Databases Online." Click the link for Licensee (Service) or Licensee/Zip and then type in your name or your organization's name and change the number of rows to retrieve to "ALL" and click OK. What kind of radio call signs am I registering? The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau needs you to register communications radio call signs at this time. For example, you must register land mobile, coast and ground, and microwave point-to-point communication radio call signs. Walkie-talkies or truck radios are well known types of communication radios. Search
Application SearchCan I use Application Search to obtain application history for licenses that were granted before a service was converted to ULS? Yes. But you may not find all of the data from the original application forms because of differences between ULS and the legacy databases. In general, the "History" feature of the Application Search will provide pre-ULS history of what type of filing was made and the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's action on filing. However, some applicant and technical data from old applications will not appear in ULS because it was not converted from the legacy database. Where do I get the Frequency Coordinator Identification Number? If you have a File number or Licensee name, you can find this number in Application Search. For microwave applications, you can find this number in Schedule I; for Land Mobile applications, you can find this number in Schedule H. You can find the Frequency Coordinator Identification Number on your Coordination Report.
AuctionsWhere can I find the table that displays the spectrum allocation? You can find this table in chart form on the auctions web site at www.fcc.gov/wtb/auctions. From here, you should click on the link for Auction Related Bandplans and then click on the link for Frequency Allocation Chart under the heading "Additional Charts." You can also find this table (in table form) at www.fcc.gov/oet/spectrum/table/fcctable.pdf. Where can I find the construction buildout requirements for PCS? You can find these requirements in 47 CFR Rule Section 24.203. Where can I find the construction buildout requirements for LMDS? You can find these requirements in 47 CFR Rule Section 101.1011. You can also find the requirement definitions in the LMDS Bidders Package (pp. 261-64). I want the address and ownership information for Auction 22 bidders. How can I obtain this information? You can find this information at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/auctions. Click "Form 175 Review." How can I find out who won particular auction blocks? You can use the ULS License Search to get this information. Choose "Market-Based Search." Download Search ResultsWhen doing a frequency search, one of my options is to download results, but the button is not activated in License Search. Why can't I download the results? The button labeled "Download Search Results" was disabled; therefore, you should not be seeing it on your screen. The FCC needs to install some specific hardware to enable this function. The hardware in question is also needed to enable filing over the Internet. The Search Result download feature will be enabled around the same time that filing via the Internet becomes available. GIS MappingCan I increase the Geographic Information system (GIS) mapping speed? The FCC is working on various ways of increasing GIS speed in the future. In the meantime, here are some tips: License SearchHow can I find out who won particular auction blocks? You can use the ULS License Search to get this information. Choose "Market-Based Search." Why can't Cellular Market Area (CMA) searches be done on ULS, such as MTAs and BTAs? Cellular Market Area (CMA) searches cannot be done by CMA number through ULS because cellular is considered a site-based service. ULS was not programmed to search for cellular licenses by market area (such as auctioned licenses) for this reason. The best way to search for cellular licensees in a particular area is to find out which states and counties comprise the CMA that you are interested in and do a state/county search. This can be done on ULS License Search: Select "General" as the search type; select radio service "CL"; click "GeoSearch"; select State/County search type; enter criteria; and pull up results. How do I know location and path numbers? Look up your call sign(s) using the Search tools available on the ULS homepage to find location and path numbers. MTA/BTA/County Cross Reference Search (For use only with radio services licensed by MTA or BTA)For radio services that are licensed by MTA or BTA, how can I determine the associated market areas within a MTA or BTA? (i.e. what are the BTAs and Counties of a particular MTA?) This MTA/BTA/County Cross Reference link can be used for the following purposes: Tech Support
BrowsersULS does not work with my AOL browser. What should I do? You cannot use your AOL browser directly to access ULS. The browser software provided by AOL does not support the versions of Java and Java Script used to develop ULS. Therefore, you can use AOL as your connection source, but you must use one of the ULS-compatible browsers listed in System Requirements and Download Information to use ULS. Why do I have to upgrade my browser to use ULS? To implement some of the functions provided by ULS, the FCC had to use the latest Internet technology; therefore, you must use one of the ULS-compatible browsers listed in System Requirements and Download Information. I do not want to upgrade my browser. Can I still file? Are there other ways to file other than online? Yes. You can file a paper application using FCC Form 606 (TIN Registration Form). You can obtain this form by NOTE: Forms either can be faxed (717-338-2693) or mailed back to the FCC at
1270 Fairfield Road Gettysburg, PA 17325-7245 Why can't I use Internet Explorer in ULS? Due to the relative lack of maturity and proprietary nature of Internet Explorer, the FCC decided to use Netscape to support ULS. Because these two browsers do not support the same features, the cost of development and maintenance of front-end code would double if the FCC supported both. Although the FCC has currently limited its support to Netscape only, development of Internet Explorer will continue to be monitored, and when it can be cost supported effectively, then it will be supported by ULS. GeneralWhen I click "Next Page," why does it leave me at the bottom of the screen on the next page? This problem is caused by our use of Java. We are looking for a solution. I cannot connect with ULS at any speed higher than 28.8 bps, even though I have a faster modem on my computer. What is the speed of the FCC extranet modems used to communicate with ULS users? Because FCC modems currently operate at 28.8 bps, ULS users with higher-speed modems must connect at that rate to use the system. To improve system speed and enhance customer service, we anticipate upgrading ULS to 56.6 bps modems by September 1999. In the interim, by implementing Smart Update technology, we have decreased the amount of information users must download each time that they long in. I am having problems printing a license for an application filed in ULS. Should I contact Technical Support or the FCC's staff? If you experience any type of technical problem in ULS, then you should call Technical Support at (202) 414-1250 as the first point of contact. Even if you have regular contact with FCC staff members, it is important to call Technical Support first because they can quickly diagnose and resolve technical problems, which is something that FCC staff members are not specifically trained to do. If it is determined that your problem requires referral to the FCC staff, Technical Support will refer you to a FCC staff member experienced in the relevant subject matter. My computer uses an ISDN line. Is there any way that I can access ULS from my desktop? Because the FCC modem pool does not support ISDN, it is not possible to access ULS from an ISDN line. If you are an ISDN user, it may nevertheless be possible to configure your computer modem to dial into ULS if you have access to an analog telephone line. Contact Technical Support at (202) 414-1250 for further information. Smart Update (Java)Is there any way to have ULS recognize that I have already logged onto the system and not to send me the Java templates, the forms, and the information every time that I log on? On February 26, 1999, the FCC upgraded ULS to use Smart Update technology to provide significant reductions in the amount of time it takes to file online. When connecting to ULS, the following will occur: NOTE: Other important information regarding the use of Smart Update: Can I download ULS forms electronically to my computer so that I do not need to be connected to ULS while I am filling them out? No. Because the ULS forms are Java-based, you cannot download them electronically. Unified Dismissal Policy
When did the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's (WTB's) Unified Dismissal/Return policy become effective? The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's (WTB's) Unified Dismissal/Return policy became effective on May 1, 1999. On February 24, 1999, WTB released a Public Notice (DA 99-385) that established a new, unified policy for dismissing and returning applications and pleadings that are filed with WTB. The goals of this policy are to promote NOTE: This policy affects applications and pleadings filed on or after May 1, 1999. It does not affect pending applications filed prior to May 1, 1999. Why is there only a file number on dismissal letters? Dismissal letters are automatically generated through the ULS and have been programmed to pull limited pieces of information from the applications. This is something the ULS Task Force can address as a future enhancement. The FCC dismissed my renewal application because of "untimely filing." Why? We dismissed your application because you filed too soon. You may submit your renewal application 90 days prior to expiration or later only. Am I still required to use microfiche? No. The FCC's microfiche requirement was eliminated by the ULS Report and Order, which became effective on February 12, 1999. This order applies regardless of whether you file electronically or manually and regardless of whether your radio service has been converted to ULS. If Canada rejects my application that requires coordination, then will the FCC dismiss it also? No. Our procedure with respect to Canada coordination will remain unchanged. We will coordinate the initial application and, if Canada rejects it, allow you to file technical amendments to avoid interference and, as a last resort, perform on-air tests. No. If service is not converted to ULS, you would still file Form 600. There is a six (6) month transition phase in which newly converted services may use pre-ULS forms. I have filed an application manually, but I know that I made a mistake. I am sure that my application is in jeopardy under the dismissal policy. Can I amend my application to correct the mistake before the FCC dismisses my application? You do have the right to amend your application (in accordance with 47 CFR § 1.927) before the FCC takes any action of dismissal. In regard to manually filed applications, however, your amendment might not reach the FCC before dismissal. In this instance, you can file a Petition for Reconsideration of this dismissal. We do urge you to review your application(s) carefully before filing them with the FCC to avoid this kind of problem. In regard to electronically filed applications, ULS will identify most mistakes interactively, which will allow you to make corrections online and to eliminate the need for such amendments. Moreover, as long as the FCC has not yet taken an action of dismissal, you can file an amendment via ULS and correct the mistake. I have experienced trouble with electronically filed applications: ULS is sometimes unable to convert larger and more complex exhibits, such as ownership charts or frequency tables, to PDF format. If I file an exhibit but it does not convert to PDF properly, then will the FCC dismiss my application? Or will ULS provide me with additional opportunities to upload the attachment? No. We will not dismiss your application. If indeed you upload an attachment but it does not properly convert to PDF format, then a member of our Technical Support staff will phone or email you (or the point of contact person listed on the application) and work with you to upload another copy successfully. What is a "qualified radio engineer"? I use engineers frequently, and many of my clients have in-house engineers or licensing managers. Often, I submit engineering studies from these people. Is the Professional Engineering (PE) designation sufficient? What about in-house technical specialists who are familiar with the rules, or people holding BS degrees in engineering? Also, many Part 90-interference issues are governed by fixed separation criteria or sliding-scale separation tables that can be interpreted by non-engineers (such as co-channel separation at 90.621). Is it okay for non-engineers to interpret this information? You must establish the qualifications of any person who provides expert technical advice, and the FCC will then review these qualifications on a case-by-case basis. For example, a radio engineer with PE certification is qualified to provide expert technical advice, whereas non-engineers are usually not qualified to serve as a qualified radio engineer. I am a frequency coordinator. Am I permitted to provide Conditional Temporary Authority (CTA) while an application is pending once I submit the application to the FCC electronically? Yes. In the event that we dismiss your application (whether filed electronically or manually), the temporary authority is rescinded by the rules (i.e., an application must be pending, not dismissed to retain temporary authority). Which applications will the FCC continue to return with the 60-day response requirement? Anytime that the FCC requires clarification, we will return the application to you and ask for an amendment within 60 days. In the past, APCO has found that FCC examiners would return an application once they came across one problem with the application. After APCO addressed that problem and resubmitted it to the FCC, there have been many occasions where examiners would continue to screen the application and return it for another matter. Verify that when the FCC dismisses/returns an application that all issues requiring attention (e.g., errors, omissions, and support documentation) on the application is noted to avoid unnecessary delays in processing. With respect to non-ULS processing of applications, we will continue to review applications as completely as possible prior to dismissal/return to minimize the number of times that you must submit an application for processing. ULS, however, does not currently undertake a complete review if certain crucial errors are present (e.g., no signature, no fee for a manually filed application, incorrect call signs, missing TIN information). For minor mistakes, will the FCC contact frequency coordinators via email, phone, or fax to allow the coordinators a specific amount of time to respond to the mistakes? No. The FCC cannot contact frequency coordinators via email for "minor errors," such as typos in site coordinates, zip codes, etc. Doing so would limit our ability to process the majority of correctly filed applications in a timely manner. If my application appears on Public Notice as initially accepted for filing, can the FCC still dismiss it under the new, unified policy? Yes. In regard to applications that we currently process under ULS, some errors will not be identified until after your application is placed on Public Notice. Because a majority of applications filed with the FCC are indeed acceptable, we do not delay applications from appearing on Public Notice until we have made all "checks." For example, if you file electronically via ULS, the system will "check" your answers online and prevent you from submitting an application that has format errors. Once submitted, ULS does other automated checks overnight that could result in dismissal. Furthermore, your application could be dismissed if fees are not filed within ten (10) days or if the staff members determine that an uploaded attachment is missing. Therefore, an application could be dismissed at different stages in our process, depending on the type of error. If your application is dismissed, ULS will show its status online (use the Application Search to determine the status of your application). In addition, the application will appear on the following Wednesday's ULS Weekly Public Notice. If I file an application whose purpose is "Renewal/Modification" ("RM") and the application is defective with respect to the modification requested (but not necessarily the renewal modification), then is the entire application dismissed? Yes. ULS gives you the flexibility to request multiple actions at once or to request them one at a time; however, it will not consider a multiple-action filing as separate applications. If one part of this filing contains errors, then the entire application will be dismissed. If ULS dismisses or returns an application, then who receives notification of this action? In regard to Aircraft and GMRS, dismissal and return letters are sent to you, the applicant. In regard to all other services that are processed by ULS, dismissal and return letters are sent both to you (the applicant) and the point of contact, if one is specified on the application. I filed Form 606 manually to register my Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), but I have not yet received a password to use when filing electronically via ULS. How can I obtain a password? You should contact our Technical Support staff to obtain your password. Am I required to submit technical data (e.g., power, antenna height) when requesting a transfer of control or assignment of license? No. I understand that if I submit an application where the technical data that I provide does not match the FCC's database, then my application may be dismissed. How can I obtain accurate information about the contents of the FCC's databases prior to filing to eliminate discrepancies and to minimize the possibility of dismissal? For licenses that have been converted to ULS, you may file online (where existing license data is pre-filled for you) or use the ULS License Search to review license parameters. For licenses that have not yet been converted to ULS, you may download the appropriate database from our website at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/databases.html or use the FCC general menu (GENMEN) search engine at http://gullfoss.fcc.gov:8080/cgi-bin/ws.exe/beta/genmen/index.htm. A frequency coordinator (or an attorney) has filed an application on my behalf. If either of these individuals has made a mistake on my application (e.g., if she has left out a schedule or data that I have provided her), then will my application be dismissed? Yes. There is no way for the FCC to discern who is responsible for the mistake that causes dismissal. You must be careful to choose a representative who is knowledgeable about ULS and all transition policies. In the event that a coordinator (or an attorney) makes a mistake on your application that causes your application to be dismissed, you should require the coordinator (or the attorney) to correct the problem. If I file an application that involves a particular antenna structure but the coordinates and height of this particular structure do not match the Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) database, then will my application be dismissed? The FCC may dismiss any application where registration is required and | |||||||
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Disclaimer: The Federal Communications Commission makes available this remote software. The Commission makes no warranty whatsoever with respect to the software. In no event shall the Commission, or any of its officers, employees, or agents, be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, but not limited to, loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other loss) arising out of or relating to the existence, furnishing, functioning or use of the software. Last Updated: July 09, 2001 |
