In the uk if you have something like 16 instances in your training records of flighst with RT you can be exempt the test - I am hazy about the details because it was a long time a go. My uk ppl issue was knocked back for lack of these and I had to do the practical. I don't know about other countries. FAA has a separate 'radio operators' licence but they give them away with the private (and in cereal boxes I heard) , although if applying for private under some circumstances you have to get one from FCC yourself.