If i have my own iPhone and i download the SDK for it can i actually upload the application (that i've made) onto my iPhone without paying the $99 dev fee to try it out? (i am a dev just a free one)

yes, there is an option to build to the phone. It is explained within the sdk itself.

From what I have heard (I am not a developer, but I follow a forum with a few of them on it), you can’t upload an app without paying the dev fee, because you need the dev key to put applications on any phone, including your own. I think until someone figures out how to bypass the key or fake it, it’s not possible. Here’s what one said:

“You cannot install an application onto a phone unless it is encrypted by a developer key signed by Apple. ANY PHONE. Including your own.

That’s what the $99 buys you. A developer key signed by Apple.”

I’m not saying he’s right, but that seems to be the consensus.

I’ll agree with blunckhouse at this point, after double-checking.

I think this is one reason they released the iPhone simulator so you can test you apps

I think it goes away after you unplug it