It depends.

For running around town talking through your local repeater on VHF/UHF,
somewhere in the range of 5 to 50 watts will do the job. It depends on the
heights of the respective antennas and their distance apart.

For HF communications, usually 100 watts is adequate. When conditions are
very good, considerably less will be needed. When conditions are marginal,
you may have to go up in power (limit is 1500 watts) or switch to CW. If
conditions are very bad, you may just have to go read a book as all the
power in the world won't help.

Dee D. Flint, N8UZE

I've been so busy studying for the tests that I haven't had much time
for anything else.

So far I obtained a Heathkit HW-8 and a keyer to start my shack. I
also have a SWR meter. I think a transmatch and dummy load will be
next on my list. What are other common accessories I will need
(besides an antenna)? Once I set up a dipole and get some
experience, I'll start looking at HF rigs.

My test was today & I passed elements 1, 2 & 3, I'd better get busy on
the antenna!!!!

TIA,
MikeB