Personal Radio Services Guide

Personal Radio Services Guide

Personal Radio Services include GMRS, FRS, Citizens Band, and MURS. These are radio services that are intended for use by the general public, and as such have lower requirements. Most are unlicensed, meaning that you do not need a license to use them, with the exception of GMRS.

DISCLAIMER: This document does not contain radio recommendations. It does provide as much information as has been found about radios that may fit the task. I’ll keep adding any knowledge gained so we can all make informed decisions. I do believe the equipment listed all has a place, but different people will have different needs, and there is no way to only recommend the perfect radio with the perfect set of features at a perfect price for everyone.

IMPORTANT: If you are or become a licensed HAM, it is recommended that you are familiar with these services, their frequencies, and their limitations, especially if there are others in your community who are using these services for emergency communications. You may be an important conduit for information during an emergency. An amateur radio license also does not confer privileges for GMRS frequencies, so you should also maintain an active GMRS license.

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