Choosing the right two-way radio can be confusing. Some services require an individual or organizational FCC license, while FRS and MURS operate under license-by-rule. In every case, use equipment and settings permitted for that radio service. The most popular two-way radio services are:

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)

The General Mobile Radio Service is a service available to individual users (no licenses will be granted to businesses, organizations or other entities). The GMRS 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. In 2017, the FCC expanded the GMRS to also allow short data messaging applications including text messaging and GPS location information.

To use GMRS radios, you need to apply for a license (no test required) that costs $35 for 10 years. This license covers the licensee (must be an adult) and his or her immediate and extended family members. The licensee’s GMRS system may consist of one or more transmitting units (stations).

GMRS radios must be certified to FCC Part 95A or 95E specifications. They are generally preprogrammed to the GMRS channels and may include some Family Radio Service (FRS) channels. We suggest the BTECH GMRS-V2 for use on GMRS frequencies. It comes with GMRS two-way and GMRS repeater channels pre-programmed, and its many features make it very easy to use.

Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS)

In the United States, the Multi-Use Radio Service is an unlicensed, two-way radio service. Established by the FCC in 2000, MURS radios have a power limit of 2 W, may not be connected to the public telephone network, or used with repeaters. MURS is intended for local communications. Actual range varies substantially with terrain, buildings, antenna placement, and radio height; MURS is limited to 2 watts and does not permit repeaters.

MURS radios require Part 95J certification and are generally locked to MURS channels only. We recommend the BTECH MURS-V2. It is very easy to use—even for young family members. The radios display the actual frequencies and CTCSS tones (aka PL tones or privacy codes) the radio is transmitting, unlike children’s FRS walkie talkies.

Family Radio Service (FRS)

In the United States, the Family Radio Service is an unlicensed, two-way radio service. Established by the FCC in 1996, FRS radios have a power limit of 2 W, may not be connected to the public telephone network, or used with repeaters.

FRS radios share the same 22 channels with GMRS and may be used for personal or business communications without an individual license. GMRS requires an eligible individual license, and current FCC rules allow a GMRS station to be used for personal or business activities. FRS radios are limited to narrowband modulation, while GMRS radios can used narrowband or wideband modulation.

FRS radios require Part 95B certification and are generally locked to FRS channels only. We recommend the BTECH FRS-A1. It is very easy to use—even for young family members. The radios display the actual frequencies and CTCSS tones (aka PL tones or privacy codes) the radio is transmitting, unlike typical children’s FRS walkie talkies.

Amateur Radio Service (ARS)

Amateur radio operators can use many different frequencies, including HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies. In the VHF and UHF range, the amateur radio bands include:

• 6 m: 50 – 54 MHz
• 2 m: 144 – 148 MHz
• 1.25 m: 222 – 225 MHz
• 70 cm: 420 – 450 MHz
• 33 cm: 902 – 928 MHz

To use amateur radio equipment, you need to pass a license test (the license is free but there can be a fee for administering the exam). More information about how to become a licensed radio amateur, can be found on the American Radio Relay League website. Radios used in the ARS must at minimum be Part 15B certified. For current amateur-radio choices, compare capabilities in the licensed-service guide and select equipment that covers the bands and features authorized for your license class.

As you can see, each of these services has advantages and disadvantages. Whichever service is right for you, however, BTECH can supply the cost-effective radio you need.