Hot Springs Amateur Radio Club
Get Your GMRS License Fast
Jun
No Test. No Class. Just Apply Online
Want to legally use GMRS radios for family, travel, events, emergencies, trail rides, or community communication? Good news: getting a GMRS license is simple.
A GMRS license is issued by the FCC, lasts 10 years, and can cover the license holder’s immediate family members. No exam is required.
What Is GMRS?
GMRS stands for General Mobile Radio Service. It is a licensed radio service used for short-distance two-way communication with handheld radios, mobile radios, base stations, and repeaters.
GMRS is great for:
- Family communication
- Camping and hunting trips
- Road trips and off-road use
- Neighborhood preparedness
- Community events
- Emergency backup communication
Do I Need a License?
Yes. The FCC requires an individual GMRS license to transmit on GMRS frequencies. The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
Is There a Test?
No. Unlike amateur radio, GMRS does not require an exam. You simply apply through the FCC’s online licensing system.
How to Apply
Step 1: Create an FCC Account / FRN
Start at the FCC CORES system and register for an FCC username and FRN. https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
Button text: Get Your FCC FRN
Step 2: Log in to FCC ULS
Use the FCC Universal Licensing System to apply for a new license. The FCC says ULS is used to apply for new licenses, renew, modify, and manage licenses. https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/universal-licensing-system
Step 3: Choose GMRS
When applying for a new license, choose:
ZA — General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)
Before You Start
Have the following ready:
- Valid email address
- Mailing address
- Credit or debit card
- About 15 minutes of uninterrupted time
The FCC’s new-license instructions explain that users log into ULS, select Apply for a New License, and complete the application. https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/support/knowledge-base/universal-licensing-system-uls-resources/applying-new-license
Step 4: Pay the FCC Fee
After submitting the application, pay the FCC fee through the FCC system.
🎉 One $35 License Covers the Whole Family!
⏱ Estimated Time: 10–15 minutes
Most applicants can complete the online application in about 15 minutes. Approval is often received within a few days.
A GMRS license is good for 10 years and covers your immediate family members. No exam required. Simply apply online through the FCC and receive your call sign. https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/bureau-divisions/mobility-division/general-mobile-radio-service-gmrs
Step 5: Watch for Your Call Sign
Once granted, you’ll receive your GMRS call sign. Use that call sign when operating, especially at the end of transmissions and during longer conversations.
Important Radio Note
GMRS radios should be FCC-certified for GMRS use. Just because a radio can be programmed to GMRS frequencies does not automatically mean it is legal to use on GMRS.
GMRS vs Ham Radio
GMRS is easier to get started with because there is no test. Ham radio offers much more capability, but requires passing an FCC exam.
A great path is:
Start with GMRS → learn good radio habits → consider getting your Technician ham license.
Need Help?
The Hot Springs Amateur Radio Club is happy to help new radio users understand legal radio operation, basic radio etiquette, emergency communication, and how to move toward an amateur radio license.
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
| Service | License Required | Exam Required | Typical Range |
| FRS | No | No | Neighborhood |
| GMRS | Yes | No | Several miles with good conditions |
| Amateur Radio | Yes | Yes | Local, regional, and worldwide |
Ready for the next step?
Once you’ve obtained your GMRS license and become comfortable using your radio, consider earning your Amateur Radio Technician License. The Hot Springs Amateur Radio Club offers mentoring, classes, and testing opportunities to help you get on the air.
