All radio spectrum is legislated or controlled. The FCC requires licenses to operate on some bands, and lets other frequency bands run unlicensed.

Radio Services Which Require a License

Some of the licensed radio services include:

Acronym Full Name URL
HAM Amateur http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/amateur/
GMRS General Mobile Radio Service http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/personal/generalmobile/

Radio Services Which Do Not Require a License

Some of the unlicensed radio services include:

Acronym Full Name URL
CB Citizens Band http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/personal/cb/
FRS Family Radio Service http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/personal/family/
MURS Multi-Use Radio Service http://www.provide.net/~prsg/murs_faq.htm

While unlicensed, there are still restrictions placed on usage and equipment.

Obtaining Your Radio License

The process of gaining your Technicians License for the Amateur HAM bands is:

  1. Not difficult
  2. Educational

I recommend becoming licensed because it will increase your enjoyment of amateur radio.

For more information on obtaining your radio license, visit the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) at http://www.arrl.org/hamradio.htmlor go directly to the FCC’s Univeral Licensing System at http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/amateur/.

Scanners

In most cases, you do not need to be licensed to operate a scanner. Some juristictions place restrictions on scanner usage. “Mobile” usage (i.e., while in a vehicle) is prohibited in some areas. Check you local laws. Also, it is generally illegal to utilize a scanner “in the commision of a crime”.