Yes there is a test involved. IF you have common sense, safety oriented and some working knowledge of electricity you should be able to pass with a short review of the testing pool.
You can search on QRZ.COM for Technician testing information and study books.
Most testing sites are at the local Fire Department, VFW and other locations.
Not that I condone the use of the Chinese Ham radios; the Baofeng UV-5R can transmit on the ham radio UHF/VHF, FRS and GMRS.