BUCKHORN CLIFFS

Communications · Skill

How to get a GMRS license

Step-by-step FCC process for getting a GMRS license, with cost, duration, family coverage, channels and power limits.

Quick facts

Cost
$35 (FCC fee since April 2022, still $35 in 2026)
Duration
10 years from the date of issue
Eligibility
18 years or older, no exam
Covers
The individual and immediate family members
Channels
30 channels, including 8 repeater channels
Call sign wait
About 48 hours

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 (the FCC fee since April 2022, still $35 in 2026)
  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:

1EligibilityAvailable to individuals 18 years or older. No exam is required to obtain the license.
2CoverageThe license covers the individual and their immediate family members, including spouse, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
3Call SignUpon issuance, the licensee is assigned a unique call sign that must be used during transmissions.
4Frequency RangeGMRS operates on 462 MHz and 467 MHz frequencies, specifically allocated for this service by the FCC.
5Power LimitationsMobile, base, and repeater stations can transmit up to 50 watts on the main channels. Handhelds typically run 5 watts or less, and channels 8 to 14 are capped at half a watt.
6Repeater UseLicensed users can access GMRS repeaters, which can further extend the communication range.
7Channel AvailabilityGMRS has 30 channels, including 8 repeater channels, providing ample options for clear communication.
8Legal RequirementsCompliance with FCC rules and regulations is mandatory to avoid fines and penalties.
Shared Channels: No GMRS channel belongs to any one user. You share all 30 channels with other licensees, and channels 1 to 22 with license-free FRS radios, so pick a quiet channel and use privacy tones.

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
Create Your FCC Account

2.) Login to Your FCC Account

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

Login to FCC Account

3.) Request Security Code

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
Register New 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.

Login to the FCC Website

6.) Click on Apply for a new license

Apply for a new license

7.) Select Service (General Mobile Radio)

Select Service
Select 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 

View and Pay

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

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

Click on: View/Make Payments

Click on Make Payment

Follow Prompts to make your payment.

Download Form159 (for your records)

Download Form

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.

FCC Radio Station Authorization PDF

Questions this answers

Tap a question for the short answer.

How do I get a gmrs license?

Create an FCC account, register for an FRN, then log in to the FCC website, apply for a new license, select General Mobile Radio as the service, answer the applicant questions, and certify. You then have 10 days to log in again and pay the $35 fee.

How much does a gmrs license cost?

The application fee is $35, the FCC fee since April 2022 and still $35 in 2026, and the license lasts 10 years. Radios are a separate cost, ranging from $50 to $300 or more per unit.

Do I need to take a test for a gmrs license?

No exam is required. You need to be 18 years or older, complete the FCC application online, and pay the $35 fee.

Does a gmrs license cover my family?

Yes. One license covers you and your immediate family members, including spouse, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

How long does a gmrs license last?

A GMRS license is good for 10 years from the date of issue. You can renew it within the 90 days before it expires.

How do I get my gmrs call sign?

Expect to wait about 48 hours after paying. The FCC emails you an authorization link that downloads a PDF, and your call sign is in that PDF, which is also your official license. You must use the call sign during transmissions.

Keep going

Read nextGMRS vs FRS radios (power, range, license)Compares GMRS and FRS two-way radios on power, range, licensing, features and best uses, with a Rocky Talkies pick and an FAQ.Communications · Guide

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