A short history
| When | What happened |
|---|---|
| 1940s | Began as "Class A" Citizens Radio with tube radios |
| 1987 | Renamed General Mobile Radio Service; business licenses ended |
| 2017 | FRS raised to 2 W; GMRS and FRS rules reorganized |
| 2019 | Selling radios that do both FRS and GMRS became illegal |
| 2022 | License fee cut from $70 to $35 |
Source: Wikipedia: General Mobile Radio Service
Things most people don't know
Your in-laws are covered
Even aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews
No internet linking
Repeaters can't be linked online
No encryption
Every GMRS conversation is in the clear
Emergencies are open
Anyone may use your radio to call for help
Power limits by channel
| Channels | Handheld max | Mobile/base max |
|---|---|---|
| 1–7 | 5 W | 5 W |
| 8–14 | 0.5 W | Not allowed |
| 15–22 | 5 W (practical) | 50 W |
| 15R–22R (repeater input) | 5 W (practical) | 50 W |
That's why the family plan uses channels 15–22.
Source: FCC GMRS rules, 47 CFR Part 95
Remember
Channels 15–22 are where GMRS has its full power.
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Answer key
- What did GMRS start as in the 1940s?Class A Citizens RadioIt began as Class A Citizens Radio with tube radios.
- In 2022 the GMRS license fee changed from:$70 to $35It was cut in half to $35.
- Can GMRS repeaters be linked over the internet?NoInternet linking is not allowed.
- Which channels give GMRS its full 50 W on mobiles and bases?15–22That's why the family plan uses 15–22.
- Who may use your radio to call for help in an emergency?AnyoneAnyone may use it to send an emergency message.