How to receive QSL cards

K3QNT QSL card

Sorted UK-bound cards are sent from the DARC QSL Bureau to the RSGB’s network of 24 volunteer QSL sub-managers for onward distribution. This happens usually every three months.

Eligibility to receive cards

  • RSGB members have full access and usage of the QSL Bureau
  • UK-based non-RSGB members may join the RSGB QSL receive-only Service (incoming cards only) for a small annual fee

Membership eligibility is checked automatically before cards are processed.

Registering your call sign(s)

It is your responsibility to ensure that all call signs for which you wish to receive cards (including previous or secondary call signs) are recorded in your RSGB Membership Services account. Please do this by logging on via the RSGB website or contacting the RSGB Membership Department via membership@rsgb.org.uk

Cards are delivered only to the call sign used in the QSO.

Please note:

  • If you operate with a different prefix (for example G9ABC operating as GW9ABC), you must send collection envelopes to the appropriate sub-manager (to GW in this example)
  • Club and special-interest group call signs must be registered in their own right
  • Special Event (GB) call signs should be registered as secondary call signs to the call sign named on the authorising Notice of Variation (NoV)

How to receive cards

To receive cards, send stamped self-addressed envelopes to your relevant sub-manager(s) for each call sign you operate.

Guidance:

  • Use strong envelopes, preferably C5 size (162 × 229 mm)
  • Clearly print your call sign (or SWL number) in the top left corner
  • Print your RSGB membership number immediately below
  • Use 1st or 2nd class stamps (not stamps showing a monetary value)
  • Include your return address in case your sub-manager changes

Postage guidance:

  • Standard “Letter” post allows up to 100g and 5mm thickness (typically 10–12 QSL cards).
  • A “Large Letter” allows the same weight but up to 25mm thickness, enabling significantly more cards to be sent
  • Even when using “Large Letter” postage, envelope size should remain C5

If you expect to receive a large number of cards, consider using “Large Letter” postage.

Unwanted or uncollected cards

Cards for radio amateurs who have not provided collection envelopes will be destroyed after three months. If you do not wish to receive QSL cards, please notify your sub-manager.

List of QSL sub-managers

QSL sub-managers are responsible for distributing incoming cards locally.
You can find your sub-manager using the list of QSL sub-managers on the RSGB website