Posted by Chet Swanson, KB!ENU on December 29, 1999 at 16:03:51:
So, you found your ULS file but cannot access it? Or you found your ULS file and cannot file online for a vanity call? You tried to register but it states that you are already registered, but you need a password to get in and you haven't assigned one yet and it won't let you in! What is this a loop?!
Relax.I found the answer:
First, you need to register with the ULS.
Do a search for your file using your call sign. Now,:
A)If you did not find your file, then simply register as a new user. You must give your social security number for your TIN, I even asked the FCC about this. After registering, you can file online for a vanity call or license renewal. See below for the access procedures.
B) You found your ULS file, but cannot access it. Ok, you are either a new ham or have recently upgraded your license. You see that when you passed your test, you and/or the VE filled out a Form 605. So, you are registered with the ULS. Now, you need a password. Ok, you knew that...but what you didn't know is that you need to call the FCC to receive a temporary password to access your file online. They will ask for your social security number and will immediately call you on the phone number that you are using. This is for security purposes. You will then get your temporary password.
Go to the ULS homepage and access your ULS file from the internet. I recommend that you immediately change your password to something easy to remember. Now, you are ready to file online for a vanity call sign. Keep on reading for access procedures
ONLINE FILING FOR VANITY CALL OR RENEWAL
Now, you have registered with the ULS and have a password (if not, see above), now your can file online for a vanity call or license renewal. Please read the vanity land mines section, for commonly made errors in the vanity call filing (ie: vanity calls are considered a "modification" application type).
There are two access procedures you must follow:
1)You cannot file online through the internet, you must connect to the FCC Network. So, you must configure a Windows Dialup Networking file (or the same type of Dialup file for the Mac) to connect to the FCC Network 800 number. This is the only way to file online. There is a configuration help link on the ULS homepage which includes instructions, the 800 number, and the URL to connect to the FCC Network ULS hompage (it's identical to the internet ULS homepage).
2) You must use a recent version of Netscape Navigator to successfully file online. Internet Explorer will not generate Forms 605 and 159. Believe me, I use IE 5 and tried it...I doesn't work!
Once you have completed these two steps, filing online for your vanity is as easy as pushing the PTT. Just follow the instructions and take your time- you cannot time-out.
Good luck and any feedback is greatly appreciated.
73,
Chet
PS If you are paying by check or money order, you need to print out the Form 159 and mail it to the address stated. Again, this will be stated in the instructions when it's time to do it.