What is GMRS?
Getting Started
The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a licensed two-way radio service in the United States, authorized by the FCC under Part 95 of its rules. It operates on UHF frequencies in the 462/467 MHz range and is designed for short-distance personal and family communications.
How it differs from FRS and ham radio
- FRS (Family Radio Service) is license-free but limited to 2W with no external antennas. GMRS and FRS share channels 1-22.
- Ham radio requires a technical exam and offers vast frequency ranges. GMRS requires no exam, costs $35, and focuses on practical communications.
Why GMRS is popular
- More power & range: up to 50W (vs. FRS's 2W limit), external antennas allowed, plus repeater access for metro-wide coverage
- Easy licensing: $35, no exam, covers your entire immediate family for 10 years
- Emergency prep: reliable communications when cell networks fail