Question 1

Is the Baofeng UV-5R legal for GMRS?

Accepted Answer

No. The UV-5R is type-accepted under FCC Part 90, not Part 95, so it is not certified for GMRS or FRS. It is legal on the amateur bands once you hold a Technician licence. The Baofeng UV-5G Plus is the Part 95E certified equivalent for GMRS.

Question 2

Do I need a licence for GMRS?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in the United States. A GMRS licence costs $35, lasts ten years, requires no exam, and covers your whole immediate family. FRS needs no licence at all.

Question 3

How far will a handheld radio actually reach?

Accepted Answer

Far less than the box claims. A 5 W handheld with a stock antenna in suburban terrain reaches roughly 1 to 3 miles. A 50 W mobile with a roof antenna reaches 5 to 15 miles. Through a repeater, 15 to 25 miles or more.

Question 4

What is PMR446 and do I need a licence in the UK?

Accepted Answer

PMR446 is the UK and European licence-free service on 446 MHz. No licence and no fee, but the radio must have a fixed, non-removable antenna and run no more than 0.5 W.