The license at a glance
$35one-time FCC fee
10years before renewal
0tests to take
1license covers the family
Any GMRS radio over 2 watts needs this license to transmit legally.
Get licensed in four steps
- Get an FCC Registration NumberFree, on the FCC CORES website
- Apply in the FCC License ManagerChoose ZA, General Mobile Radio Service
- Pay $35 within 10 daysBy card, right after you submit
- Get your call sign by emailUsually within a few days
Who's covered
Spouse, children (grown ones too), grandchildren, parents, siblings, in-laws and more.
Using the radio
Push to talk
Hold the side button, wait a second, speak, let go to listen
Say your call sign
At the end of a conversation and every 15 minutes
Pick family channels
A main and a backup from 15-22; privacy codes off
Go high for range
Height and open ground matter more than power
How far it reaches
| Setup | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Handheld, town or woods | 0.5 to 2 miles |
| Handheld, open ground | 2 to 5 miles |
| Handheld from a hilltop | 5 to 15 miles |
| Mobile radio with roof antenna | 5 to 20 miles |
| Through a repeater | 20 to 50 miles |
Typical estimates. Test between your own home and meeting place to know your real range.
Remember
One $35 license keeps the whole family talking when the phones go down.
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Answer key
- How much does a GMRS license cost?$35A one-time $35 FCC fee, good for 10 years.
- Who can use one family GMRS license?The applicant and immediate family, including grown childrenSpouse, children, parents, siblings, in-laws and more.
- Is there a test for the GMRS license?NoYou just apply and pay.
- When must you say your call sign?At the end of a conversation and every 15 minutesThat's the FCC rule.
- What helps a handheld radio reach farther?Getting higher with a clear viewHeight and line of sight matter more than power.