First, I want to mention that for the latest updates, changes and confirmed information always refer to the FCC website. They are responsible for the regulations and the FCC has been known to change things over time. I’m sharing the information here for a quick overview and to help put some vocabulary in your head. I’ll also be sharing a bit about the licenses I currently have and what I plan to still get.
The Federal Communications Commission (not just another TLA government entity)
The Federal Communications Commission or FCC, is an independent United States government agency responsible for regulating all interstate communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. It’s main role is to ensure that these communication services are available to the public in a fair and efficient manner. The FCC is also responsible for managing and licensing the use of the radio spectrum, enforcing rules and regulations to promote competition, and protecting consumers from deceptive practices in the telecommunications industry.
FCC and Amateur Radio
The FCC plays a crucial role in promoting amateur radio by overseeing the licensing and regulation of amateur radio operators. It sets the rules and regulations governing amateur radio operations, including frequency allocations, operating privileges, and technical standards. The FCC also manages the application and examination process for obtaining an amateur radio license, ensuring that operators meet the required qualifications and possess the necessary knowledge and skills. Additionally, the FCC works to protect and preserve the amateur radio spectrum, promoting its availability for non-commercial use and encouraging innovation and experimentation within the amateur radio community.
License Types
The FCC is responsible for licensing and regulating large corporate broadcasters to the private citizen and a ham radio license. I’m only going to mention three types of licenses that the average person could likely obtain. They are:
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Commercial radio service refers to the use of licensed radio frequencies by businesses and organizations for their day-to-day operations and communication needs. This service allows companies to establish reliable and efficient communication systems using two-way radios, mobile radios, or base stations. Commercial radio service is regulated and requires a license for operation. It is commonly used in sectors such as construction, transportation, manufacturing, security, hospitality, and various industries that require reliable and instant communication among employees for coordination and safety purposes.
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General Mobile Radio Service or GMRS is a licensed radio service in the United States that allows individuals and businesses to have short-range, two-way communication using handheld radios, mobile radios, and base stations. GMRS operates on a limited set of specific frequencies allocated by the FCC and requires a license to operate. It is commonly used for personal and recreational purposes, such as outdoor activities, events, and family communication. These licenses are typically more affordable and offer broad coverage for personal and family use with no testing requirements.
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Amateur radio service, also known as Ham Radio service, is a licensed radio service that allows individuals to communicate and experiment with radio equipment for personal, non-commercial use. Unlike other radio services, ham radio operators have more flexibility in terms of frequency range, power output, and types of communication allowed. Ham radio operators must pass exams to obtain an amateur radio license, and they communicate with each other locally, nationally, and even internationally using various modes, including voice, Morse code, digital communication, and satellite communication. Ham radio operators also play a crucial role in providing emergency communication during disasters and supporting public service events.
I’m mentioning Commercial licenses for reference the rest of this post is focusing mostly on Ham Radio and GMRS.
Ham Radio Licenses
Ham radio operators can be divided into different types based on their license and their associated privileges. The three main recognized types (as of 2023):
- Technician - Technician Class is the entry-level license and they are granted privileges on certain frequency bands. They can communicate locally and use some limited frequency bands for voice, data, and image transmissions.
- General - The General class has expanded privileges, including access to more frequency bands and modes, allowing for nationwide and international communication.
- Amateur Extra - Amateur Extra operators have the highest level of licensing with additional privileges on all amateur radio frequencies. They can communicate globally and have access to exclusive frequency bands.
The privileges are stacked meaning General has everything Technician has as far as privileges plus the additional privileges of that class.
GMRS
There is no classes associated with GMRS. It’s a license that can be purchased without a test and will cover everyone within the license holders household. Some key specifications of GMRS include:
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Frequency Range: GMRS operates in the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) range, specifically between 462 MHz and 467 MHz.
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Power Output: GMRS radios are allowed to have a maximum power output of up to 50 watts, although most consumer-grade devices operate at lower power levels.
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License Requirement: To use GMRS radios, users above the age of 18 must obtain an individual license from the FCC, which covers their entire family or group. There is a fee associated with obtaining the license.
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Channels: GMRS has 22 channels available, including both shared FRS (Family Radio Service) and GMRS channels. Some channels are limited to low power while others can utilize the full 50-watt power output.
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Range: The range of GMRS radios can vary depending on factors such as terrain, obstructions, and antenna quality. In general, GMRS radios offer a range of a few miles up to several miles in ideal conditions.
It is important to note that GMRS radios can also operate on FRS frequencies without requiring a license, but are subject to lower power limitations.
Which License to get?
The decision to get a GMRS license or a ham radio license depends on your specific needs and interests.
If you’re looking for short-range communication within a smaller group, such as your family or close friends, and don’t plan on exploring long-distance or international communication, a GMRS license may be sufficient. GMRS radios are relatively easy to use, don’t require extensive knowledge or training. Plus the license itself covers your entire group.
On the other hand, if you have a deeper interest in radio communication, want to experiment with various frequencies, modes, and technologies, and potentially engage in long-range or international communication, obtaining a ham radio license would be more appropriate. Ham radio licenses, provide a wider range of frequencies, higher power output, and more flexibility for exploration and experimentation in the world of amateur radio.
Ultimately, consider your communication needs, technical interests, and the level of involvement you desire to make an informed decision between a GMRS license and a ham radio license.
What did I do?
My first license was the GMRS license, I did this really to get a handheld radio with a little more power to chat with my family over the FRS / GMRS radios we and others already owned. But this was just step one. My real goal was to get my ham radio license and start working on international communications. I first got my Technician’s license and then followed up with the General. Currently I’m studying to get my Extra Class license
Would I still get both if I started today? Yes! Although the frequencies used by GMRS fall within scope of most ham radios, the FCC has forbidden ham radio operators from transmitting on those frequencies. Plus GMRS is very popular with groups that go four wheeling or hiking. So to communicate with each other requires a GMRS license.
I know this post is pretty dry, but I felt it was needed to just get the facts out there. Yes I would suggest that there is no either or here. If you just want to chat with family and friends during an outing the GMRS license would be great. Can you get both, Yes! As I mentioned, this is what I’ve done.
Do you need both? Well, not really. The caveat here is that Ham Radio Operators are banned from using those defined GMRS frequencies. In fact even if you have the GMRS license you can’t use a ham radio to broadcast on the GMRS frequencies. An operator can only transmit GMRS with a GMRS radio and GMRS license.
AS always please refer to the FCC site directly they will always have the latest and greatest information and they are the source of truth for all things radio.