License?

[firepack]

I'm thinking about getting a VHF vertex 2 way radio for my jeep. Do I need a license? If so where do I apply for one at? Thanks!

[rfradioconsult]

GMRS operates in the UHF 462/467Mhz range not VHF.

[adamdavis]

If you want to use a VHF radio you could look into and paying lots more for a commercial license.

[firepack]

Where do I apply for a GMRS license?

[mdulrich]

Originally Posted by firepack

Where do I apply for a GMRS license?

First link in a Google search... FCC: Wireless Services: General Mobile Radio Service: GMRS Home

Mike

[canav844]

If you check out GMRS outlet they give a little more explication on getting into GMRS on the proper mobile level (not the weak bubble pack stuff) But they're icom bias, so take a look at the equivalent Vertex radios, and yes it is UHF version that you'll need. If your jeep buddies are talking about having VHF not GMRS radios, then they're probably talking about the 2m HAM band, in which case take a look at the ARRL's website for info on getting your technical license.

[hockeyshrink]

Originally Posted by adamdavis

If you want to use a VHF radio you could look into and paying lots more for a commercial license.

Dude, you really need to think about what your communications needs are. Like canav844 mentioned, do you need to talk to buddies in the bush? If so, y'all need to be in the same piece of radio spectrum.

VHF ham is great and will give you all kinds of access to repeaters and options. Slight hurdle is that you and your buddies need to pass a short 35 question test to get you on the VHF air. Morse code not required. Well worth it!!

The commercial license alternative mentioned above will be expensive, but you will have an assigned a frequency to work on. Problem there is that any new guys coming into the group will have to get YOUR frequency programmed into their radio, which is a hassle.

A relatively inexpensive VHF alternative that does NOT require a license is MURS - Multi-Use Radio Service. ( Multi-Use Radio Service - The RadioReference Wiki ) You get 2 watts of power with an external antenna and 5 freqs to use. Can be handhelds or mobile. Downside is that there aren't that many "MURS" radios out there, so most people used old public safety or business equipment that has been programmed for MURS freqs and reduced power output.

Now, my big question: Why are you looking for a VHF solution? Why not get a "CB" radio, especially one that can operate SSB? They are plentiful, no license, great for the field, and will give you 12 watts PEP on SSB.

If you must go VHF, my suggestion: Take the plunge, take the test, and go ham. You just need to convince your buddies. Next best alternative IMHO is MURS. There is usable equipment out there at a reasonable price.

Good luck!
Al

[mrweather]

And if they spend their time bouncing around in the bush a CB may actually work better because the lower frequency isn't attenuated by the foliage as much as VHF and, especially, UHF is.

[rescuecomm]

Just as a hunch, they may be using Marine VHF mobiles on land.

A No-No!

Bob

[undertakeru]

Originally Posted by firepack

I'm thinking about getting a VHF vertex 2 way radio for my jeep. Do I need a license? If so where do I apply for one at? Thanks!

Why can't you use it for MURS, on low power,also you need no licence ?