FRS, GMRS, and Ham Radio: Capabilities and Licensing
Consumer radio communications exist on a spectrum from no-license to licensed systems. FRS (Family Radio Service) radios are license-free, use fixed 0.5–2 watt power on 22 channels (462–467 MHz), and have practical range of 0.5–2 miles in urban environments and 3–5 miles in open terrain with clear line-of-sight. They cannot use repeaters. GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) requires an FCC license ($35, no exam, covers entire immediate family for 10 years) and allows 1–5 watt handheld and up to 50 watt mobile operation on 22 channels, plus access to community GMRS repeaters that can extend range to 20–50 miles. GMRS is the recommended entry-level emergency radio for households. Amateur (ham) radio requires passing a Technician license exam (35 questions on basic electronics, regulations, and safety) at $15 exam fee. It authorizes operation on VHF/UHF bands with up to 1,500 watts, access to a nationwide network of repeaters (repeaterbook.com), satellite communication, HF global communication (for General/Extra license holders), and digital modes. The ARRL (American Radio Relay League) manages training resources. The Technician license focuses on 2-meter (144 MHz) and 70-centimeter (440 MHz) bands — well-suited for local and regional emergency communication. An HT (handheld transceiver) like the Yaesu FT-60R or Baofeng UV-5R (entry-level) costs $30–$250 and connects to local repeaters with ranges of 30–150 miles.