Hi folks! We have just been given a pair of 4W handy-talkies that operate on GMRS channels 1--30. The literature that accompanied tham states that GMRS channels 1--7 and 15--30 require an FCC license and call sign. I have a general class Ham licence already. Here's the question: Do I have to get a new license, or does my general entitle me to use those GMRS frequencies?
- Status
Update
I went on the FCC site and downloaded the forms. Apparently, you have to be over 18 to use GMRS, so that effectively rules out my daughter from using the restricted channels. Seems crazy, since Ham licenses are not age restricted. I guess we'll have to stick to the "open" channels, 8--14. I would still like to know if the General class licenses allows use of GMRS, though?
I went on the FCC site and downloaded the forms. Apparently, you have to be over 18 to use GMRS, so that effectively rules out my daughter from using the restricted channels. Seems crazy, since Ham licenses are not age restricted. I guess we'll have to stick to the "open" channels, 8--14. I would still like to know if the General class licenses allows use of GMRS, though?
Ham freqs are different
The GMRS operating frequencies are different from those you are authorized to use with the General Class ham license. General class hams are authorized to use a set of frequencies with specific power, emission types. GMRS has nothing to do with the Ham class of license and is a different set of frequencies. Licensing GMRS is a totally different animal. You might Google GMRS and ARRL to get more info. Congratulations on gettng the General ham ticket! Jack Swords N1IY
The GMRS operating frequencies are different from those you are authorized to use with the General Class ham license. General class hams are authorized to use a set of frequencies with specific power, emission types. GMRS has nothing to do with the Ham class of license and is a different set of frequencies. Licensing GMRS is a totally different animal. You might Google GMRS and ARRL to get more info. Congratulations on gettng the General ham ticket! Jack Swords N1IY
Thanks Jack
I guessed as much, but I couldn't find anything specific. I have had the general for 15 years or so, but am not active. Soooo, that means I would have two call signs, one for ham and one for GMRS... Nuts!! Unless they add on the extra freqs...? Chris N2NOJ
I guessed as much, but I couldn't find anything specific. I have had the general for 15 years or so, but am not active. Soooo, that means I would have two call signs, one for ham and one for GMRS... Nuts!! Unless they add on the extra freqs...? Chris N2NOJ
I can confirm that you need a new license
Completly different set of FCC rules and licenses. And get ready for a $40.00 fee that gaurentees you absolutly nouthing excep the thought police will not give you as much of a hassel. However, we do love ours as there is NO traffic on most of the channels.
Completly different set of FCC rules and licenses. And get ready for a $40.00 fee that gaurentees you absolutly nouthing excep the thought police will not give you as much of a hassel. However, we do love ours as there is NO traffic on most of the channels.
Thanks Bill!
I think I'll wait and see how much traffic is on the FRS freqs, channels 7--14, and if heavy I'll splurge for the license. The forma are a bit daunting!! I know many people use the GMRS freqs without a license, and that it is really unmonitored, but I do like to stay legal... Chris
I think I'll wait and see how much traffic is on the FRS freqs, channels 7--14, and if heavy I'll splurge for the license. The forma are a bit daunting!! I know many people use the GMRS freqs without a license, and that it is really unmonitored, but I do like to stay legal... Chris
FCC Enforcement. *yks
There aren't that many FCC enforcement personnel, but they are out there monitoring the frequencies. If you are caught, its an automatic $10,000 fine. You have to file an appeal if you want them to reduce the fine. The FCC normally will only reduce your fine if it’s a financial burden. You have to submit a copy of your income tax return if you want to declare it would be a financial burden to pay the fine. On the FCC's website they list the names of individuals or companies they have taken action against, the notices are public records. They usually go after the big violators, but they do go after the small violators illegality transmitting on GMRS frequencies without a license or using marine VHF onshore, both are $10,000 fines. If you occasionally violate the rules, the chances of getting caught are slim. If you repeatedly violate the rules, your chances of getting caught are increased. There is a groups of GMRS users with a website who have banned together to monitor the GMRS frequencies and gather information on illegal users to report them to the FCC. When broadcasting on GMRS, you have to use your call sign. Fair Winds, Clyde FCC GMRS Violation http://www.fcc.gov/eb/FieldNotices/2003/DOC-257949A1.html
There aren't that many FCC enforcement personnel, but they are out there monitoring the frequencies. If you are caught, its an automatic $10,000 fine. You have to file an appeal if you want them to reduce the fine. The FCC normally will only reduce your fine if it’s a financial burden. You have to submit a copy of your income tax return if you want to declare it would be a financial burden to pay the fine. On the FCC's website they list the names of individuals or companies they have taken action against, the notices are public records. They usually go after the big violators, but they do go after the small violators illegality transmitting on GMRS frequencies without a license or using marine VHF onshore, both are $10,000 fines. If you occasionally violate the rules, the chances of getting caught are slim. If you repeatedly violate the rules, your chances of getting caught are increased. There is a groups of GMRS users with a website who have banned together to monitor the GMRS frequencies and gather information on illegal users to report them to the FCC. When broadcasting on GMRS, you have to use your call sign. Fair Winds, Clyde FCC GMRS Violation http://www.fcc.gov/eb/FieldNotices/2003/DOC-257949A1.html
gmrs forms
Chris, make sure you got the new" forms-the old GMRS requirements were aimed at commercial users and were very complicated, but the rules changed-last year, I think, and it's now a very simple form-you just have to pay the fee
Chris, make sure you got the new" forms-the old GMRS requirements were aimed at commercial users and were very complicated, but the rules changed-last year, I think, and it's now a very simple form-you just have to pay the fee
chanels 7-14
I only get traffic on the 7-14 channels when we are at some kind of sporting event. Even then you have to hunt around to find it. Also I can conferm that the licensing is a one (well it took me 4 stops but now I understand I was overcomplicating things) stop, pay the man and wait a few days to get your ticket. REAL simple.
I only get traffic on the 7-14 channels when we are at some kind of sporting event. Even then you have to hunt around to find it. Also I can conferm that the licensing is a one (well it took me 4 stops but now I understand I was overcomplicating things) stop, pay the man and wait a few days to get your ticket. REAL simple.
Update and close the thread
I found the new form: much simpler and fillable on line. I filled it out and paid the fee: $80!!! Now I wait for the licennse grant and we will use GMRS channels. Again, thanks to all responders.
I found the new form: much simpler and fillable on line. I filled it out and paid the fee: $80!!! Now I wait for the licennse grant and we will use GMRS channels. Again, thanks to all responders.
Just Remember, Chris,
you must have a license for each user, not for each radio. That means that you must pay at least $89 more in order to have a conversation with your wife using your GMRS radio. Steve Alchemist
you must have a license for each user, not for each radio. That means that you must pay at least $89 more in order to have a conversation with your wife using your GMRS radio. Steve Alchemist
- Status