The FCC gets mad if you transmit, and if they find you, you will get a nice fine.

A 10 year GMRS license costs around $70, and last I checked extended to household family members sharing the same call sign. But you’ll have to double check to confirm. This license requires no test.

Getting a ham license is more involved, and requires study and a test. It is better suited to an RF hobbyist.

There is also a 2w low power FRS threshold where no license is required. Many decent handhelds have switchable power levels.

The FCC gets mad if you transmit, and if they find you, you will get a nice fine.

A 10 year GMRS license costs around $70, and last I checked extended to household family members sharing the same call sign. But you’ll have to double check to confirm.

There is also a 2w low power FRS threshold where no license is required. Many decent handhelds have switchable power levels.