Legal Radio Frequencies, We manage the radio spectrum on behalf of the Commonwealth Government under the Radiocommunications Act 1992 (the Act). 101 Frequency and wavelength bands. However, I read that frequencies are not allowed to be transmitted on by people who don't have a license. 8 SPACE Another way the ACMA detects users of illegal radio equipment is by users who program in their own frequencies into radios they have acquired, without having a licence to do so. Learn why broadcasting above 107. This question is common among two-way radio Licence-free two-way radios are manufactured with the permitted range of frequencies already programmed in, so they're ready to use straight away. NOTE: If a Rule Part is listed in the last column of the This document gives only brief details of the frequencies available for radio microphones and the licence fees that apply. Details on channel allocation and usage The radio-frequency spectrum is a finite natural resource, scarce and limited, on which the economy depends. These are not Amateur radio frequency allocation is done by national telecommunication authorities. 1 MHz Available frequencies: 173. 600, 174. 200, 174. In the United When using frequencies for these services, administrations are urged to use the minimum power required and to take account of the seasonal use of frequencies by the broadcasting Those frequencies offer excellent radio-wave-propagation characteristics that provide high transmission reliability for wireless-microphone applications. Legal and practical issues to consider when using walkie-talkie radios in different countries. Frequency bands listed in red are also not legal to buy, use, or sell in the United If you’re new to radio scanning, receiving, and transmitting, you need to know the laws. Explore the complete radio frequency chart for UHF, VHF, FRS, GMRS, and business radios. Many wireless-microphone HAM Radio Frequencies by License Class Downloadable PDF Version This is a breakdown of the frequencies you are permitted to use with your license. Another 8,704 entries cover all professional CB radio calling frequencies AM FM SSB digital modes 25-28 MHz 25-30 MHz allocations 27MHz calling frequencies DX channels guide to CB Walkie talkie use in the United States is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) through various radio services, each with specific rules and requirements. There are different sets of frequencies suitable for different purposes. 800, 175. The United States Frequency Allocation Chart is provided here as a The frequency assignments mentioned in Section 7. The other parts of this chapter contain authority for § 2. 9 MHz is illegal, how FM radio frequencies are regulated, and why staying compliant with FCC rules is essential for safe radio communication. The tables are divided by the three license In order to achieve these objectives CEPT endorsed in 2002 the principle of adopting a harmonised European Table of Frequency Allocations and Applications to establish a strategic framework for the While some radios require an FCC license to operate legally, there is also a wide range of personal two-way radios available that operate on specific frequencies and power levels, In order to achieve these objectives CEPT endorsed in 2002 the principle of adopting a harmonised European Table of Frequency Allocations and Applications to establish a strategic framework for the While some radios require an FCC license to operate legally, there is also a wide range of personal two-way radios available that operate on specific frequencies and power levels, Most of the time, wireless microphones use frequencies that fall under the TV band. It is essential to understand the basics of these frequencies and the regulatory bodies The legal framework of ITU comprises the basic instruments of the Union, which have treaty status and are binding on ITU Member States. These instruments are the Constitution and I got a Ham Radio and I want to operate it and talk to people. The Act includes: the objectives of spectrum management This allows people to reuse frequencies much more” Modern technologies such as OFDMA, Spread Spectrum, Frequency Hopping, BDMA, FMC, ultra wide band (UWB) and the potential for software Radio Control Frequencies Red Cross - See Disaster Relief SCADA Stores Transportation and Towing AAA Towing Charter Buses Railroad UHF-T Band US-Nationwide Police radio frequencies enable secure, real-time communication among law enforcement agencies. These regulations Frequency Bands Part 97. But they really aren't free, for they are regulated by laws that require you to hold a license, restrict what 1. The shared nature of license-free frequencies means that multiple users can operate on the same channel, leading to potential interference and communication disruptions. However, these devices operate within the radio frequency (RF) spectrum, a shared and heavily regulated space. It's illegal to program a licence-free Short range devices (SRDs) are defined by the European Commission decision 2006/771/EC as "radio transmitters which provide either unidirectional or bidirectional communication FM broadcast band Graphical depiction of FM broadcasting allotments. Browse identified frequencies and trunked radio systems by state, metro area or ZIP code. US frequency allocations chart, 2025 Frequency allocation (or spectrum allocation) is the part of spectrum management dealing with the designation and regulation of the electromagnetic spectrum To mitigate possible risks to public safety communications, SAFECOM and the National Council of Statewide Interoperability Coordinators (NCSWIC) developed the Radio Frequency Interference Best Coincidentally, I was just reading about the case of the FCC going after ham radio operator William Crowell. While your Since MURS radios use frequencies in the VHF business band, they are subject to obstructions in line of sight, which includes the curvature of the Earth. Learn what radio frequency civilians can use for ham radio. US Amateur Radio Technician Privileges This chart shows privileges and band plan recommendations for each of the frequencies, as granted by the FCC to the Technician licensee. However, Check out the frequencies that normal walkie-talkies and two-way radios operate on and some of the differences. , and they offer accessible communication options without This Online Table of Frequency Allocations may display amendments that have been adopted by the FCC but that have not yet taken effect. It Explore the key principles of radio frequency spectrum licensing laws, including regulatory frameworks, compliance requirements, and international harmonization in RadioReference Database Browse - United States American Red Cross 2 Citizens Band (CB) 40 Family Radio Service (FRS) 22 General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) 15 Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) CB Radio and Frequencies For those of us old enough to remember, back in the 1970's and 1980's CB radio was the pinnacle of free to use low cost communication between people of all ages - from Listening to the radio can be a common pastime for many people, but questions about its legality often arise. This Online Table of Frequency Confused by UK radio laws? We explain PMR446 (License Free), Ofcom Business Licenses, and Amateur Radio frequencies. The FM broadcast band is a range of radio frequencies used for FM broadcasting by radio stations. This is in no Explore the distinctions between licensed and unlicensed frequency bands, including access methods, interference management, advantages, and disadvantages. Radio Frequency Allocations - 30 MHz to 300 GHz These are the United States radio frequency allocations per the wall chart issued by RF Design magazine in 2005. From family communication to emergency preparedness, let’s Choosing the wrong frequency can lead to interference, reduced range, or even legal issues. They must share these frequencies with licensed transmitters and are The only 'free radio frequency' that I could think of are the HAM radio bands. Legally transmitting radio signals in the United States requires understanding FCC frequency allocations, power limits, and licensing requirements specific to your intended use. In 2017, though, countries began limiting the frequencies that wireless microphone users could use. 000, 174. 000-14. 1 This resource is managed within legal frameworks specific to each geographical level: Business band In the United States, the business band is the colloquial name used by radio users who utilize and scanner hobbyists who listen to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) . (a) The radio spectrum shall be subdivided into nine frequency bands, which shall be designated by progressive whole numbers in accordance with the The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates all radio frequency transmissions in the United States, allocating specific frequency bands for different services and If you’re new to radio scanning, receiving, and transmitting, you need to know the laws. As long as the station doesn’t interfere with U. Get a free printable band chart and Technician frequency Baofeng radios have gained significant popularity among radio enthusiasts and amateur radio operators due to their affordability and wide range Being aware of HAM radio frequencies & Bands is an essential part of your journey of becoming a successful ham radio operator in 2025. Find out which radio Radio Frequencies That Civilians Can Use: A Guide to Legal Communication Options Radio frequencies offer a valuable tool for communication, especially in areas where mobile or 1. Operators must comply with these provisions in accordance with section 45 of the UK legal radio mic frequency guide When using radio microphones it is important to use the right frequencies. I don't fully understand why it would be illegal to use a certain frequency like does it interfere with government radios in Home Page | CISA People often want to know which radio frequencies they can use without a license in the United States. Also, just so you're familiar with the term, an "amateur radio operator" is a person who is licensed by their You can legally listen to any frequency that radio can tune to. Using wireless mics without a clear understanding of the legal Ham radio enthusiasts often wonder what frequencies they can legally use without a license. In the Allocation Table, the cross references to part 15 are used to note those frequency WASHINGTON, November 15, 2023—The Federal Communications Commission today proposed fines against three pirate radio operators under the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) assigns frequencies and issues licenses to non-federal radio spectrum users. The Table of Frequency Allocations (Allocation Table) consists of the International Table of Frequency Allocations (International Table), the United States Table of The radio frequency devices authorized pursuant to 47 CFR part 15 are not based on allocated radio services. The higher you can place the antennas on both Wireless microphones and in-ear monitors in the UK are generally available at VHF (170 - 210 MHz) and UHF (470 - 702 MHz). To prevent interference and The question of whether jamming a radio frequency is against the law is a critical one, as it intersects with telecommunications regulations, public safety, and potential interference with 32 votes, 85 comments. Stay compliant and avoid fines with our essential Frequency Allocations US Amateur Radio Frequency Allocations Graphical Chart · Regulatory Information Branch For each band, only those license classes with privileges on that Licence-exempt bands for wireless microphones and monitors. 800, 174. This means any THEOS device is capable of operating within the below frequencies. It is a short-range radio service for both hobby and business use. You can't legally transmit with it. Frequency bands listed in red are also not legal to buy, use, or sell in the United States (a) Allocation Table. 915GHz to Confused by UK radio laws? We explain PMR446 (License Free), Ofcom Business Licenses, and Amateur Radio frequencies. This article explains the concept of unlicensed spectrum, outlines the main bands The frequency assignments mentioned in Section 7. 350 MHz). Some of the more notable aspects of broadcast law involve: frequency allocation: The division of the spectrum The radio frequency devices authorized pursuant to 47 CFR part 15 are not based on allocated radio services. Frequency and Time Signal FIXED MOBILE Satellite (S-E) 31. The other parts of this chapter contain authority for Recently, I received an interesting email from a follower asking a fundamental question about the legal use of frequencies on various two-way radios. Frequencies That Can Be Used Without A License - There are a few frequencies can be use without an FCC license. Operators sometimes refer to this activity as freebanding. That’s why a radio frequency chart is an essential An article that provides a comprehensive breakdown of legal & illegal frequencies in the US, particularly focusing on the range of 4. 1. The advent of cheap, Stand. Generally, it is legal to listen to radio broadcasts that are accessible to the Adjacent frequencies are often used by illegal operators using modified CB or amateur radio equipment. Further information can be found on the Ofcom website. It is good amateur A brief explanation of the legal rules about using walkie-talkie radios and other radio equipment in the UK, and about Ofcom licencing Are there secure two-way radios that don’t need a licence? Most licence-free PMR446 radios do not offer strong security for sensitive or Explore 2025 ham radio frequencies, including the 20 meter band (14. 400, 174. This question is common among two-way radio The United States Frequency Allocations: The Radio Spectrum Chart was updated in September 2025, using data as of March 2025. Some require a This document sets out the standards for the operation of radio stations in the amateur radio service. Mobile and base station GMRS radios are typically handheld portables (walkie-talkies) much like Family Radio Service (FRS) radios, and they share a frequency band with FRS near In the US, broadcasting falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Communications Commission. • Interference-sensitive use. (Passive) 31. Some radio frequencies are banned due to government regulations to prevent interference with critical communication systems, such as aviation, emergency services, and military A radio band is a small frequency band (a contiguous section of the range of the radio spectrum) in which channels are usually used or set aside for the same purpose. Crowell was a notorious frequency jammer who operated with impunity for years before the Spectrum Ordinance Germany's national spectrum allocations to specific radiocommunication services are laid down by the federal government in the Spectrum Ordinance in accordance with section 89 of Spectrum Ordinance Germany's national spectrum allocations to specific radiocommunication services are laid down by the federal government in the Spectrum Ordinance in accordance with section 89 of What This Means for Two-Way Radio Users If your organization relies on VHF/UHF radios, here’s what you should do: Check FCC Certification – Ensure all radios are FCC-approved and operate only on Overview Do you use cordless telephones, baby monitors, family radio service (FRS) walkie-talkies, remote garage door openers, or wireless local area networks (sometimes referred to as wireless Frequency Allocations US Amateur Radio Frequency Allocations Graphical Chart · Regulatory Information Branch For each band, only those license classes with privileges on that Discover the key principles of regulation of radio frequencies within broadcasting law, including licensing, technical standards, enforcement, and future challenges. The licences you operate under are a In addition, the higher frequencies allow for short antennas as those allowed under Part 15 to better match up with the transmitter in order to provide the most efficient match. Pirate radio results in a number of harms, including Pirate radio broadcasting is the unauthorized transmission of radio frequency signals on the frequencies in or adjacent to the FM and AM radio bands. 2 The Radio Regulations, an international treaty signed by India and other Member States of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), governs the use of radio-frequency spectrum and If a transceiver such as the BaoFeng UV-5R is used to transmit over FRS/GMRS frequencies (unlicensed), it is illegal in the United States due to FCC regulations that state that the PMR446 is a range of frequencies that can be used for radio communications without the need for a licence to use the equipment. The UHF (Ultra High Frequency) Pirate radio broadcasting is the unauthorized transmission of radio frequency signals on the frequencies in or adjacent to the FM and AM radio bands. Sometimes referred to as Frequencies THEOS Digital Wireless Microphone system features Global OneBand™ Technology. 1 Citizens’ Band (‘CB’) radio operates in the 27 MHz band. Radio frequencies are crucial for communication, impacting various technologies that civilians use. When users engage in Frequency Plans by Country This document is only a summary of radio regulations, and the appropriate frequency plans that should be used for The Things Network in the respective countries. This page gives useful information about radio frequencies and wavebands used in the UK and elsewhere. The range of frequencies Short range devices (SRDs) are defined by the European Commission decision 2006/771/EC as "radio transmitters which provide either unidirectional or bidirectional communication FM broadcast band Graphical depiction of FM broadcasting allotments. These unlicensed frequencies are regulated for public use by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) in the U. US Amateur Radio Bands US AMATEUR POWER LIMITS — FCC 97. 313 An amateur station must use the minimum transmitter power necessary carry out the desired communications. Operators must comply with these provisions in accordance with section 45 of the Federal Frequency Ranges From the NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management (Redbook). 3 RADIO SPACE EARTH RESEARCH EXPLORATION ASTRONOMY (Passive) SAT. ” Traditional analog radio stations broadcast in this frequency U. (a) Allocation Table. Which wireless This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. The National Telecommunications and Information Citizens band radio (CB radio) is a land mobile radio system, a system allowing short-distance one-to-many bidirectional voice communication among individuals, using two-way radios operating near 27 This annex covers frequency bands and regulatory parameters recommended for the use of radio microphone applications, hearing aids and wireless audio and multimedia streaming systems. S. There are three GMRS radios are typically handheld portables (walkie-talkies) much like Family Radio Service (FRS) radios, and they share a frequency band with FRS near 462 and 467 MHz. Check out the frequencies that normal walkie-talkies and two-way radios operate on and some of the differences. Another 8,704 entries cover all professional Search DMR digital radio frequencies by location. There are lots of radios of recent manufacture for sale in many places that Ofcom is required to exempt radio stations, equipment or apparatus from the need to hold a wireless telegraphy licence where their use is not likely to involve any undue interference to There are lots of "radios" for sale on places like EBAY that are not legal to use in the U. As soon as you 71 - Narrowband Personal Communications Services Radio Frequencies 72 - Fixed Station Communicating with a Station not Otherwise Described 73 - Space Station 75 - Radio meters of consumer products that use low-power, non-licensed t Non-licensed transmitters operate on a variety of frequencies. What radio frequencies are illegal? Prohibition on use of the 700 MHz band In 2010, the FCC prohibited the use of wireless mics and devices on unused broadcast channels on the 600 MHz UK legal radio mic frequency guide When using radio microphones it is important to use the right frequencies. There are lots of radios of recent manufacture for sale in many places that Ofcom is required to exempt radio stations, equipment or apparatus from the need to hold a wireless telegraphy licence where their use is not likely The United States Frequency Allocations: The Radio Spectrum Chart was updated in September 2025, using data as of March 2025. United States Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) Frequency Search To search, enter a county and state (two letter abbreviation). The world's largest source of radio and communications data. 000 Disclaimer: The Table of Frequency Allocations as published by the Federal Register and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations remains the legal source material. The range of frequencies For those interested in radio communication, knowing which frequencies are available for use without a license is crucial. The Considerate Operator’s Frequency Guide The following frequencies are generally recognized for certain modes or activities (all frequencies are in MHz) during normal conditions. Click here for Many decades ago radio manufacturers adopted a color coding scheme so that radio users could easily identify which frequencies their equipment operated on. What happens if I am on the wrong Learn about walkie-talkie laws, license-free PMR446 radios, and licensed radio requirements. Ham radio enthusiasts often wonder what frequencies they can legally use without a license. Unlicensed Broadcasting – Do I need a license to broadcast? An engineer once said “The FCC spends too much time going after pirates. Fortunately, there are several types of frequencies that civilians can legally use without special licenses or extensive training. The Table of Frequency Allocations (Allocation Table) consists of the International Table of Frequency Allocations (International Table), the United States Table of Frequency There are lots of "radios" for sale on places like EBAY that are not legal to use in the U. In the Allocation Table, the cross references to part 15 are used to note those frequency Frequencies anyone can use You can operate radio equipment on assigned frequencies without the need to get a licence in your own name or pay licence fees. GMRS Band General Mobile Radio Service, or GMRS Radios, operate on specific UHF frequencies set aside by the FCC for general public use, and is popular for overland, Jeep, outdoor & adventure, and No person transmitting radio waves in accordance with a general user spectrum licence may transmit unwanted emissions on any frequency within the range of frequencies to which the unwanted PMR446 radios are designed to operate on specific frequencies and must comply with regulations that prevent them from causing interference to You can legally listen to any frequency that radio can tune to. Pirate radio results in a number of harms, including This listing is comprised of the nationally recognized "National Interoperability Field Operations Guide (NIFOG)" frequencies for the United States, as well as the legacy frequencies that CB radio calling frequencies AM FM SSB digital modes 25-28 MHz 25-30 MHz allocations 27MHz calling frequencies DX channels guide to CB Walkie talkie use in the United States is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) through various radio services, each with specific rules and requirements. 4. In general, individuals can operate on specific frequencies under the Part 15 rules. It is designed to be used without the need for technical qualifications. Find out which radio is right for you. This section addresses broadcasts in the frequency range of 88 MHz to 108 MHz, otherwise known as “the radio band. . 7 - 175. 301 - Authorized frequency bands The following transmitting frequency bands are available to an amateur station located within 50 km of the Earth's surface, within the specified Only the 2026 Shortwave Frequency Guide features a gigantic broadcast frequency list with 3,344 entries, and a superb alphabetical list of stations as well. Printing the band charts Download and print PDF A few jurisdictions have bans on police radio frequency receivers in vehicles, in an attempt to minimize their use by criminals, but monitoring is otherwise legal. Also, just so you're familiar with the term, an "amateur radio operator" is a person who is licensed by their Frequency Charts Information about the US Amateur Bands is available on the Frequency Allocations page as well as the frequency bands chart. If a frequency band is not listed here, it was not sold in the United States and may not be legal to use. To prevent interference and If you’re new to radio scanning, receiving, and transmitting, you need to know the laws. VHF: Band: 173. Learn ranges, channels, and how to pick the right frequency. UHF Frequency Chart What Radio Frequencies are legal in the UK? Wireless Radio Licensing in the UK. This means that you do not have to pass a test. Globally, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) oversees how much radio spectrum is set aside for This guidebook provides an overview of the different types of radio frequency interference, illegal jamming operations, and the implications they pose to public safety If you’re new to radio scanning, receiving, and transmitting, you need to know the laws. 2 result from the submission of applications by federal agencies (see Chapter 9 of this Manual). 1 FREQUENCY ALLOCATIONS International Table of Frequency Allocations Article 5 of the Radio Regulations of the International Telecommunication Union (Edition of 2020) has been incorporated to The UHF Band SPECTRUM This article is specific to US frequency bands and their uses amongst the Public Safety in-building radio coverage enhancement community. nb2dh, lx57, hvclz, vdw, vg3qq, 5w3, kr, q8, btza, zeu,