The primary difference between the two comes down to your exam score, which dictates which frequency bands you are allowed to use.
1. Basic Qualification
This is the entry-level authorization for amateur radio in Canada. You receive this qualification if you pass the exam with a score between 70% and 79%.
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Frequency Privileges: You are entitled to transmit only on frequencies above 30 MHz.
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Practical implication: This limits you primarily to VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands (e.g., 2 meters and 70 cm). These bands are typically used for local communication and repeater operation. You cannot use the HF (High Frequency) bands used for long-distance, worldwide communication.
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Power Limit: You may use a maximum transmitter power of 250 watts (DC input).
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Equipment: You are restricted to using commercially manufactured equipment or kits that are packaged and designed for the amateur service. You cannot build your own transmitter (homebrew) from scratch.
2. Basic with Honours
You receive this designation if you pass the Basic exam with a score of 80% or higher. It is legally the same certificate but grants significantly wider operating privileges.
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Frequency Privileges: You are entitled to transmit on all amateur radio bands.
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Practical implication: In addition to the VHF/UHF bands mentioned above, you gain access to HF bands (below 30 MHz), such as 80m, 40m, and 20m. These are the frequencies used to talk to other operators around the world (DXing).
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Power Limit: The limit remains the same at 250 watts (DC input).
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Equipment: The restriction remains the same. You must use commercially manufactured equipment or kits.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | Basic Qualification | Basic with Honours |
| Exam Score Required | 70% – 79% | 80% – 100% |
| Frequencies | Above 30 MHz only (VHF/UHF) | All Bands (HF, VHF, UHF) |
| Global Reach | Limited (mostly local/regional) | Full (worldwide communication) |
| Max Power | 250 Watts | 250 Watts |
| Equipment | Commercial/Kits only | Commercial/Kits only |
What Neither Can Do (Requires “Advanced” Qualification)
It is helpful to know what these qualifications cannot do, to understand their limits. Without the Advanced qualification, neither Basic nor Basic with Honours holders are entitled to:
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Build their own transmitting equipment (Homebrewing).
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Install or operate a repeater (though you can use other people’s repeaters).
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Operate with high power (above 250 watts, up to the legal maximum of 1000 watts).
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Sponsor a club station call sign.
