FCC rules on Walkie-Talkies

Walkie-talkies are extremely useful and affordable communication tools that are great for communicating with large or small groups of people over a short distance. Using a walkie-talkie doesn’t cost a service fee like a cell-phone, making them a great economical communication device. 

A walkie-talkie has many practical uses and can be a great tool for hunters, campers, hikers, and even families who just want to keep in touch. However, a walkie-talkie is a radio and several Federal Communications Commission regulations govern their operation.

A  walkie-talkie operates on two frequencies, a Family Radio Service, and a General Mobile Radio Service. FRD is the lower-power and shorter-ranged frequency, functioning at up to a mile at best. The GMRS frequency operates at a much higher power and has a 5 mile range. 

The GMRS frequency requires an FCC license to operate. The GMRS license allows a user and his family the right to use the frequency around them. 

The license is good for five years, and must be renewed if the unit is being used. FCC rules for GMRS frequencies apply only to the United States, if you plan on traveling with a walkie-talkie it is recommended to check on the country’s telecommunication regulations.