Bob,

This is the model that Canada moved to in the 1990s, and morrors the
CEPT structure to a great degree. We have two categories - Basic and
Advanced. Morse can be added on to either. Basic gets you full
privileges above 30 MHz, with power restrictions (560W PEP on SSB -
not much of a restriction!). Morse adds on full access to all of the
HF bands. Advanced adds on full legal power capability (2,250W PEP),
the ability to build or your own transmitting equipment and operate a
club repeater, be a VE, and a few other goodies. Only one call sign
is issued (exception below...) - it is assigned upon receiving the
Basic licence, and is good for life. No renewals or fees are charged.
When you upgrade to Advanced, or add on Morse, a new certificate is
issued, but the call remains the same. The only time the call sign
must change is if you move to another area in Canada (i.e. VE2 moves
to VE6, you must apply for a new VE6 call sign).

Those who held one of the older qualifications are automatically
transfered in the licence database to the appropriate new licence
category..

A lot cleaner and cheaper!

73, Leo

Besides, then I'll be able to
step forward publicly with my feelings that Advanced and Extra should go
away ... that an entry level class (Novice?) with low power privileges
in all bands and a higher (General?) license that gives you everything
are all the classes we need. Anything higher, like my Advanced and the
Extra I'll have soon is just vanity. Let the ARRL create awards for
folks who pass tests demonstrating a higher level of technical skill.

-- Bob, KB0GT