Getting a ham radio license, especially for those without a science background, may require some time and dedication, a luxury that journalists do not always have. But it’s not the only way to communicate through radio during or after a natural disaster.
The General Mobile Radio System is a licensed radio service that uses channels around 462 MHz and 467 MHz. The most common use of GMRS channels is for short-distance, two-way voice communications using hand-held radios, mobile radios, and repeater systems. It uses radio equipment as cheap as ham radios (from as low as US$30). Its channels cover the whole Puerto Rican archipelago and there are thousands of GMRS licensees all over the US. You can find where they are at MyGMRS.com.
The FCC also regulates GMRS and to operate in this radio spectrum, people also need a license. The difference between GMRS and a ham radio license is that there’s no need to take an exam, which saves much time and effort, and helps newsrooms onboard more reporters into radio operations.
The requirements to get a GMRS license are straightforward:
- Being 18 years or older
- Not a representative of a foreign government (bold emphasis added)
- Pay US $35 required by the FCC
That’s it. In about 24 hours, one gets a GMRS license and can jump into the airwaves. Licenses are issued for a ten-year term and are renewable. “Immediate family members are the licensee’s spouse, children, grandchildren, stepchildren, parents, grandparents, stepparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and in-laws,” says the FCC. Up to 10 people, regardless of age, can use the same GMRS radio license. The only requirement? They have to live under the same roof. Newsroom workers can apply for it, too.
There are other benefits that come with the GMRS license: “Any individual who holds an individual license may allow anyone to operate his or her GMRS station if necessary to communicate an emergency message,” says the FCC.
The GMRS has a limited radio range that carries both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, the relatively short distance between users minimizes the potential for no interference from others using the radio waves due to their proximity. The drawback is that certain areas within the desired coverage zone may remain inaccessible from a specific location.But with the help of repeaters this can be solved too.
How to get the GMRS license
The first step is to register at the FCC’s website here and to apply for an FRN or FCC’s Registration Number (Click on “Register New FRN.”)
Once you get it, on the left side of the screen, you’ll see “Apply for New License.” Then, select “ZA – General Mobile Radio Service” from the drop-down menu.
Then, answer the questions you are asked.
Fill in your personal information and review the application. Once you confirm everything is okay, click “Continue to certify.”
On the Certification page, sign your application by typing your name in the boxes provided and click the “Submit” button.
The system will calculate the fees, and the payment for the online application must be received within ten calendar days of application.
Click the “Continue” button for payment options to choose your payment method.
Complete the payment information. That’s it. Usually, the license is ready to download within 24 hours. Later, you will receive a copy by mail to the address you entered.
Read more about the GMRS license here.
