GMRS Radio License

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) which is a licensed radio service commonly used for short-distance, two-way voice communications.

Person talking on a handheld radio In the United States, using the GMRS system requires a license issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). License applicants must be 18 years or older but the license can be used for any immediate family member regardless of age. Licenses are valid for 10 years and can be renewed before the license is set to expire.

Why do I need a GMRS license?

Radio frequences are regulated by the FCC in the United States. A GMRS radio may legally be operated only with a FCC license. Per the FCC’s GMRS service rules described in 47 C.F.R. Part 95 Subpart E, “Each GMRS station must be identified by transmission of its FCC-assigned call sign at the end of transmissions and at periodic intervals during transmissions except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section. A unit number may be included after the call sign in the identification.” If you operate a radio transmitter that requires a license, or use a radio that is authorized for only a specific service for an unauthorized service, you may be fined or imprisoned, and/or the equipment may be confiscated.

What are the requirements to obtain a GMRS license?

License applicant must be 18 years or older.
Applicants cannot be a representative of a foreign government.
No tests or exams are required.
Applicants pay a $35 license fee (good for 10 years).

The license can be used by the licensee and immediate family members which include the licensee’s spouse, children, grandchildren, stepchildren, parents, grandparents, stepparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Family members do not need to live in the same household.

Licensee may may use a combination of portable, mobile, fixed and repeater stations consistent with the operational and technical rules in FCC service rules 47 C.F.R. Part 95 Subpart E.