interesting problem with scanner permit

[ffexpCP]

I was out and about today and decided to stop by the local MSP post to check on the expiration date of my scanner permit. For those of you who don’t know, older permits do expire while the newer ones are good forever. The date is not printed on the older ones either, so I decided to check.

Of course, I got some questions about what I listen to and why I have a radio. (I really wanted to say it’s none of his business. I have followed the law by obtaining a permit, and I am doing nothing illegal with it. But I decided to stay on his good side and politely answer)

Anyway, they couldn’t find any record of my permit. They looked up my permit number and name. No record of my name but my number was actually assigned to someone else!

So now I need to reapply and hope I don’t get pulled over until then.

Let this be a lesson to all. If you have a permit, it may not be a bad idea to check on the status of it.

 

[KB8UYC]

all the more reason to just have a ham radio license, then they cannot say anything.....


Eric

 

[CapnJon]

Whats the experation date of the permit?? I got got mine two years ago...

 

[ffexpCP]

I don't know- that's why I stopped in and checked. The newer ones don't expire.

 

[RocketMan1]

Scanner Permit? Is this something just in Michigan? I have searched the web until my eyes bled looking for a way to "legally" carry my scanner without having to go the "ham" route. Any direction/info for an Indiana neighbor would be appreciated.

 

[KB8UYC]

Scanner Permit? Is this something just in Michigan? I have searched the web until my eyes bled looking for a way to "legally" carry my scanner without having to go the "ham" route. Any direction/info for an Indiana neighbor would be appreciated.

All it would take is about 2 weeks of studying and reading the book and doing the practice test's(the same questions that you practice with will be on the test) So, why not just get your ham license rather than doing what you are doing above??????

Just get your license!

Eric

 

[Jeffn8wb]

I agree. Getting a ham ticket is an easy solution and is the way that I decided to go. But it's not for everyone. Some people don't do well with tests or have an interest in electronics or communication other than wanting to turn on a radio. That is probably one reason why cb has been so popular in the past. Buy a radio, stick up an antenna and get on the air. Just like how FRS is so popular now.
Eventually something may catch their interest and they might decide to get their ticket. They may decide that they want to participate in Skywarn and chase a twister, get involved in emergency management and get into ARES/RACES, play around with some of the new digital modes or even get into satellite communication. But until then, I am glad that they are wanting to do things the legal way and get a permit.
My advice is to get in touch with the local police department and find out what the requirements are in your area. They would be able to point you in a direction so you can be legal. But if you do decide to get into amateur radio, feel free to send me a PM and I'll be more than happy to help get you started.