Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)

The Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes.

ARES Membership Requirements

Every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization is eligible to apply for membership in ARES.  Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES.  Please inquire at the local level for specific information.  Because ARES is an Amateur Radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable, but is not a requirement for membership. [arrl.org]

How to Get Involved in ARES

Learn more about ARES by visiting the ARRL ARES information page where you can also fill out the ARES Registration form from the ARRL and submit it to your local Emergency Coordinator.

Learn more about the difference between ARES & RACES by visting the ARRL.org FAQ