How to Call CQ on Amateur Radio

Look for a clear frequency by transmitting by asking "Is this frequency in use". If on CW, use QRL. Wait 30 seconds or so then transmit the same message again. If the frequency is clear, proceed to step 2.

Start your call- CQ CQ CQ Calling CQ. This is (your call sign)calling. Repeat this three times. It should look like this:

"CQ CQ CQ this is "

"CQ CQ CQ this is "

"CQ CQ CQ this is "

Now wait 30 to 60 seconds. If no one answers, start again.

If a station comes back to you but you are not sure of the his or her call sign, do not use the cw pro-sign of QRZ? That means "Is there a station calling me?" Rather, use standard English of "Please again with your call sign" If necessary, use the standard military phonetic alphabet of give your call sign. For example, a call sign of W8XXX would be "whiskey 8 x-ray, x-ray, x-ray over" Do not use fancy or unfamiliar phonetics that may not be understood by the calling station.