More antennas than friends.
Finding GMRS repeaters in your area is one of the first things to do after getting licensed. Repeaters dramatically extend your range, and most areas in the US have at least a few within reach. Here's where to look and how to get started.
The most comprehensive GMRS repeater directory is myGMRS.com. Search by location, view repeaters on a map, and see details including frequency, CTCSS tone, whether the repeater is open or closed, and coverage area. A free account lets you search; a paid membership unlocks additional features. This should be your first stop.
Right here on gmrs.io, you can search for GMRS repeaters by location. Our data is sourced from FCC license records and community contributions.
RadioReference.com maintains a large database of radio frequencies including GMRS repeaters. Search by state and county. RadioReference also lets you export frequency data for import into CHIRP — see Importing Channels from RadioReference.
Many regions have local GMRS groups on Facebook, Reddit (r/GMRS), or the myGMRS.com forums. These groups often maintain their own repeater lists and can tell you which repeaters in your area are most active. Some repeaters are listed in directories but inactive; local operators know which ones are actually worth programming.
Once you've found a repeater, you need four pieces of information:
Open vs closed repeaters: Open repeaters welcome all licensed GMRS operators. Closed repeaters require permission from the repeater owner before use. Always check the listing. If a repeater is marked closed, contact the owner through myGMRS.com before transmitting on it.
After programming a repeater, test it properly — don't just kerchunk. Key up and say your callsign: "WRYZ123, testing." If the repeater is working and you're in range, you'll hear the repeater tail (a brief carrier or courtesy tone) after you release the PTT. If nothing happens, double-check your CTCSS tone and offset settings.
If your area lacks GMRS repeaters, you have a few options: use simplex channels for local communication, check if any nearby repeaters have enough elevation to reach your location, or consider setting up your own repeater. Even without repeaters, GMRS simplex with a mobile radio and a good antenna can reach 5-15 miles depending on terrain.