GMRS path
Your first week on GMRS
No exam required — but GMRS still needs an FCC license and a channel plan. This week gets your family on the air legally. Unfamiliar terms? See the radio glossary.
- Day 1: Download the free GMRS reference card and read channels vs repeater pairs on GMRS tool.
- Day 2: Apply for GMRS at FCC ULS ($35, no test). Family may operate under your license per FCC rules. Wait until ULS shows active before transmitting on GMRS repeaters.
- Day 3: Buy or assign radios — handhelds for property; note watt limits and antenna rules.
- Day 4: Program simplex first — e.g. Ch 22 (462.725 MHz) on your property. For repeaters, use the pair on your GMRS card (often Ch 20 RX / Ch 20 TX with tone). See GMRS programming guide.
- Day 5: East TN: NETNRC linked GMRS on local frequencies — SKYWARN D7 GMRS net Tuesday 7 PM. Elsewhere: find a local GMRS group on myGMRS.com.
- Week 2: Add a PACE plan layer — GMRS as primary or alternate vs cell and Meshtastic.
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GMRS family comms
Licensed GMRS voice for property and repeaters — no ham exam required.
In the book
GMRS week pairs with chapters 2–5
Same topics in long-form: licensing, first radio, programming, and a simple emergency plan. Free sample chapter available.