I am asked this question many times. Most people assume that ham radio is the same as either Citizen's Band (CB) or we are a commercial radio station (think your favorite music station - FM or AM). Amateur radio is a completely separate category of radio. The frequencies available vary, but all are outside of the areas of CB or radio stations. 
 
So getting back to the original question, how far can you talk on an amateur (or ham) radio? That really depends on many variables. To keep it simple, when the conditions are right, hundreds or even thousands of miles.  
 
For instance, last night I was listening to an amateur station in the Central American country of Costa Rica, roughly 1,300 miles from LaFayette, GA. That's far. But here'e the kicker:the station was talking to other stations as far away as Ontario, Canada and California. That's a distance of over 1,800 for Ontario and 2,400 for California.  
 
Interestingly enough, for most amateurs that is not the furthest contact that they have made. Many hams in the U.S. make contact on a regular basis with Europe, Africa, and Asia. Or how about the International Space Station or the Space Shuttle?! Now that's far! 
 
Interested? Come join us on Thursdays or learn more about it by following the links at the Rambler Radio Club page.