Hey everyone! I'm planning to take my Tech exam in August 2026 and just found out about the new question pool that takes effect July 1st. If I'm testing after July 1, 2026, I'll need to study the new 2026-2030 pool instead of the current 2022-2026 pool. Can anyone recommend the best study resources that are already updated for the new pool? I've been looking at HamStudy.org but want to make sure I'm using current materials.

Also, I heard the 2026 pool modernizes some questions around digital modes and clarifies regulatory details, but it's not a dramatic overhaul - is this accurate? Should I focus on any particular areas that changed significantly?

HamStudy.org already has all the 2026 pool questions available with full explanations, even the new ones. I'd recommend starting there since it's free and comprehensive. The interface makes it easy to track your weak areas too.

The new pool has 409 questions compared to 412 in the prior pool - 27 new, 30 removed, and about 155 modified. One key update is that Technician class operators can now use digital modes like FT8 on 10 meters, 6 meters, and 2 meters. Definitely worth studying those digital mode questions!

ARRL will have new study materials including The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual and Tech Q&A by May 2026. I'd wait for those official guides if you're not testing until August. The print materials are usually more thorough than online resources.