Why Do I Need a GMRS License & How Do I Get It

The FCC requires a GMRS radio license as a way to regulate frequencies that are used by two-way radio devices. Before operating a GMRS radio, a consumer must have a valid license. Any radio using the shared FRS/GMRS frequencies that is able to transmit above 2 Watts of power was reclassified as GMRS-only after the recent FCC changes in September 2017. GMRS radios can be handhelds or in-unit mobile radios.

We know the FCC website is a confusing place, so we are here to help demystify the GMRS licensing process. Fair warning, this might be dry but it is important information! Stick with us!

Top GMRS License Take-a-Ways

Applicant must be 18+
Not a representative of a foreign government
Only available to individuals (no new business licenses; some business licenses are grandfathered in from circa 1987)
No test - just payment: $35 and good for 10 years
License covers you and your immediate family (spouse, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.)
If you have a past felony conviction, you must disclose context (this does not automatically mean denial)
And finally - follow the rules set forth by the FCC

Wait, What Are the FCC Rules

If an authorized FCC representative requests to inspect a GMRS station (handheld, mobile, base, etc.), the operator must make the station and any station records available
No messages in connection with any activity against Federal, State, or local law
No false or deceptive messages
No coded messages with hidden meanings (except standard "10 codes")
No music, whistling, sound effects or other material to amuse or entertain
No ads or offers for the sale of goods or services
No ads for political campaigns or candidates
No international distress signals (like "Mayday") unless you are in a vehicle in immediate danger
No communicating with Amateur Radio Service stations, unauthorized stations, or foreign stations
No continuous or uninterrupted transmissions (unless related to immediate safety of life or property)
No messages for public address systems
You must identify using your FCC-assigned call sign at the end and at periodic intervals during transmissions

So, How Do I Apply

Online! Go to the FCC website by following the 'Filing Instructions' below.

New General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) Filing Instructions

Per Public Notice DA 15-72, the FCC no longer mails license authorizations. If you provide an email address on your application, an official copy of your GMRS license will be emailed to you once granted.

Steps to File a New GMRS Station License in the ULS

Go to ULS License Manager and log in with your FCC Registration Number (FRN) and password.
- If you dont have an FRN, register for one at CORES Registration. You will verify an email and then receive your FRN.
- If you dont know your FRN, search by callsign at ULS License Search.
- If you have forgotten your password, use the 'Contact Tech Support' link on the log-in page to reset it, then return to ULS License Manager.
Click 'Apply for a New License' in the left menu
Select 'ZA - General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)' from the Service dropdown
Proceed through the application screens, filling in your personal details
On the Summary page, review and click 'Continue to Certify'
On the Certification page, type your name and click 'Submit'
ULS will calculate fees: $35, payable within 10 calendar days
Click 'Continue For Payment Options' to complete payment

Downloading Your License (After Grant)

Return to ULS License Manager and log in
Click 'Download Electronic Authorizations' in the left menu
Select your callsign(s) under 'My Authorizations'
Click 'Add' and then 'Download'
You will get a PDF you can open or save