What is the normal term for an FCC-issued amateur radio license?

The standard term for an FCC-issued amateur radio license is ten years. This applies uniformly to all current amateur license classes, including Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. Once your license is granted, you can operate for a full decade before needing to renew it. While some other FCC services (like early GMRS rules) or older historical amateur licenses had five-year terms, and some people mistakenly believe passing the exam grants a lifetime license, the modern standard is strictly a 10-year renewal cycle.