462.5625 MHz · Channel 1 · Over
Keep the whole convoy on one channel.
GMRS is the easiest way to get your family, trail group or emergency kit talking: one FCC license, no exam, and real range. These guides cover the radios, the license and the step up to ham radio, in plain English.
What's the radio for?
Pick by where you'll use it. A dash-mounted mobile and a pocket handheld solve different problems.
Mobile radios
More power and a roof antenna for miles between rigs. Midland MXT and Wouxun mobiles compared.
Handheld radios
Pocket radios for the family, and which ones are actually GMRS-certified.
Base stations & repeaters
A good antenna up high does more than extra watts. How to cover a neighborhood or a ranch.
Licensed in one sitting
No test and no Morse code. One license covers you and your immediate family. Here's the whole process.
Get an FRN
Register for a free FCC Registration Number in the FCC's CORES system.
Apply in ULS
Log in to the FCC License Manager and file a new GMRS application.
Pay the fee
Pay the FCC application fee online. Check the current amount on the FCC site before you apply.
Get your call sign
Your call sign usually arrives within days. Say it on the air, and you're legal.
Rules and fees change. Our full licensing guide links straight to the FCC pages and is re-checked against them.
GMRS vs FRS vs CB vs ham
Four ways to talk without a phone signal. Where GMRS fits:
| FRS | GMRS | CB | Ham | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| License | None | FCC license, no exam, covers family | None | Exam required (Technician and up) |
| Best for | Kids, theme parks, short range | Families, trail groups, local emergencies | Truckers, old-school off-road | Long distance, hobbyists |
| Repeaters | No | Yes, for much longer range | No | Yes |
| Radios | Cheap blister-pack handhelds | Handhelds, mobiles, base stations | Mostly mobile | Everything, huge range of gear |
Power limits and channel rules differ by service. See our GMRS vs FRS guide for the per-channel details from the FCC rules.
Just published
- GMRS range calculator
- Midland vs BTECH vs Wouxun: which GMRS brand should you buy?
- The best GMRS radio for preppers and family emergency plans
- The best mobile ham radio for your vehicle, from 25-watt starters to APRS rigs
- Baofeng UV-5R vs Quansheng UV-K5: which cheap first ham radio should you buy?
- The best handheld ham radio for beginners: eight radios for your first call sign