Reading AMPS from a solar panel

You can test the output by connecting the panel to a battery who's in need of a charge. Place the panel in optimal sun exposure. Using a multi-meter one can test the "load" being placed on the panel. The reading will never exceed the panels max-out rating but until either the sun goes down or the battery reaches a full charge the output load reading from the panel should be just at or just below it's max-out rating.

I won't explain how to use a multimeter but I will say that most offer settings for reading the line load. The directions that come with the meter will give you the proper settings.