Of course, amateur radio is primarily a technology-oriented hobby - similar to photography, maker ("DIY"), motor sports or programming, for example. But amateur radio is much more than that: it is "the" hobby for everyone who is interested in international understanding and exchange, and for whom communication means more than just using a smartphone & co:

• More than just technical skills
  The amateur radio license is the "license to radio" - an additional qualification that not everyone has and that you can be justifiably proud of: It is not only a globally recognized proof of technical expertise, but also proof of your own performance and perseverance, ambition and learning success. By the way: this also looks good in a job application!
  
• Shy of the microphone, afraid of speaking, insecure?
  In amateur radio, you train to communicate confidently and successfully with people from a wide variety of linguistic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Because the common hobby forms the basis and communication follows simple technical regulations, language or personal hurdles hardly play a role and can be quickly overcome. "If you can do it on the radio, you can do it anywhere!"
  
• Doing instead of consuming:
  In amateur radio, you experience "handmade" communication: making worldwide contacts with simple means, independent of smartphones or the availability of an internet connection. You are your own provider: if necessary, even without a power socket and in any case without expensive large-scale technology and dependence on telecommunications companies.
  
• Friends all over the world ...
  What international associations and NGOs strive for with varying degrees of success - in amateur radio it has always been a matter of course: a worldwide community beyond political, religious or ideological boundaries. Amateur radio is a living example of international understanding, tolerance, neutrality and peace promotion.
  
• ... and on site!
  As an amateur radio operator, you are never on your own. In the DARC local association K06 Ludwigshafen alone, there are over 50 like-minded people from the region. We meet regularly for joint activities and socializing. Newcomers are always welcome - and of course, support with your first steps on the bands or setting up your own station is a matter of honor. Frustrated beginners? Not with us!

The path to a license - now even easier!
To participate in the amateur radio service, a permit (colloquially known as a "license") is required, which is issued by the Federal Network Agency after a successful examination. With the introduction of the new entry-level class "N" on June 24, 2024, obtaining an amateur radio license has become much easier than before, and can be easily mastered even by those without any special technical knowledge.

(By the way: amateur radio should not be confused with CB radio. While the latter is a radio application for predominantly short distances that does not require a license or testing, amateur radio is a legally regulated radio service with a worldwide range and special privileges (e.g. building your own equipment), but also special requirements (e.g. testing, fees)).

In cooperation with the local association K06 Ludwigshafen of the German Amateur Radio Club (DARC), a training course is planned at the Ludwigshafen University of Applied Sciences to obtain the amateur radio license class N (colloquially known as the "newcomer license").