What proves that the FCC has issued an operator/primary license grant?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer is C: The license appears in the FCC ULS database. The FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS) is the official database that contains all active amateur radio licenses. When your license appears in the ULS, it is the legal proof that the FCC has issued your operator/primary license grant.

The ULS database is the authoritative source for license status. Once your license appears there, you can legally operate, even before receiving a paper copy in the mail. The ULS is publicly accessible, allowing anyone to verify that a call sign is valid and to see the privileges associated with that license. This database is updated regularly and is the final word on whether someone holds a valid amateur radio license. While you may receive other documents or notifications, only the ULS listing constitutes official proof of your license grant.