How to Get a GMRS License: Step-by-Step Guide, Costs, and Benefits

This post will walk you through how to obtain your GMRS license.

The most important benefit of obtaining a GMRS license is the ability to use repeaters, which can extend the communication range even further, making it ideal for emergency situations, outdoor activities, and staying connected with family and friends over long distances.

GMRS License: Costs, Duration, and Important Information

Costs:

1. Application Fee: $35 (as of April 2022, per the FCC)
2. Equipment Costs: Varies depending on the type and number of radios; GMRS radios can range from $50 to $300+ per unit. Click here to see GMRS product recommendations.

Duration:

1. License Duration: 10 years from the date of issue.
2. Renewal: Can be renewed within 90 days before the expiration date.

Important Information:

1. Eligibility: Available to individuals 18 years or older. No exam is required to obtain the license.
2. Coverage: The license covers the individual and their immediate family members, including spouse, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
3. Call Sign: Upon issuance, the licensee is assigned a unique call sign that must be used during transmissions.
4. Frequency Range: GMRS operates on 462 MHz and 467 MHz frequencies, specifically allocated for this service by the FCC.
5. Power Limitations: Mobile and handheld GMRS radios can transmit up to 50 watts of power, significantly increasing communication range.
6. Repeater Use: Licensed users can access GMRS repeaters, which can further extend the communication range.
7. Channel Availability: GMRS has 30 channels, including 8 repeater channels, providing ample options for clear communication.
8. Legal Requirements: Compliance with FCC rules and regulations is mandatory to avoid fines and penalties.
9. Interference Protection: GMRS offers better interference protection compared to unlicensed radio services, ensuring clearer communication.

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Step by Step Guide on how to get your GMRS license

1.) Create an FCC Account

Prior to completing the application for your GMRS license, you need an FCC account. CLICK HERE

• Click on Register
• Complete Registration
• Confirm Your Email

2.) Login to Your FCC Account

Now that you’re registered you can login to your new account.

3.) Request Security Code

4.) Register New FRN 

• Now that you’re logged in, select Register New FRN
• Answer all questions and submit
• You will receive your FCC Registration Number
• Keep track of your FRN

5.) Login to the FCC Website

Now that you’ve got your FRN and you’ve created an account and a password, you can login, pay, and receive your GMRS license.

6.) Click on Apply for a new license

7.) Select Service (General Mobile Radio)

8.) Complete Applicant Questions & Certify

Now that you have your application submitted, you’ve got 10 days to make payment.

9.) Login (Again)

10.) Pay $35 Fee

Click on: Manage Existing FRNs | FRN Financial | Bills and Fees 

Click on: Pay application fees and bills, and view financial status and payment history.

Click on: View/Make Payments

Follow Prompts to make your payment.

Download Form159 (for your records)

How do I get my Call Sign?

Count on a wait time of about 48 hours (give or take). You’ll get an email titled “FCC Application Grant OR Official FCC License” (at least at the time of writing this).

In that email will be a link: “Authorization Link” that opens and downloads a PDF file. In that PDF file you’ll find your Call Sign. That PDF is your official license.

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