GMRS radio licencing?

[ajcanable]

I've read a few posts now referring to using GMRS radios. And I was wondering how many gmrs radio users actually had acquired proper licensing for them? When I first got radios I was reluctant to cough up $75 (for a five year license) but I intended to use them frequently so I did. Any other "callsigns" out there?

[EC_hiker]

I went to the FCC site and looked for information about applying for a license. What I saw made my head spin.



Holy bureaucracy, Batman!

[ajcanable]

What was really difficult was giving up 75 bucks knowing that millions of bubble pack radios would be flooding the airwaves with lame call tones and chatter from illegal users mostly children with nothing meaningful to say. I have to turn my base station off in the evening sometimes just because of the constant keying of call tones somewhere in my area. It's amazing that the fcc would allow these manufacturers to produce and sell the GMRS radios with nothing on the package telling consumers they are required to have a license! One good thing about the license is that it covers your whole family.

[ADGibson]

Speaking of licensing. I really need to study up to get a HAM license. I heard the test is not hard just need to memorise a few things for the entry level license. I downloaded a few code practice programs to learn Morse Code but haven't practiced that.

I look at all the types of transceivers and get lost. I have no idea what to look for. I want 3 units. One base unit at home, one in my truck and one handheld. I would mostly use them for calling for help if needed. Any help would be appreciated.

[ajcanable]

Hi Dofear I have'nt any experience with ham radio but here is a link to an arra site dealing with obtaining a ham license.
http://www.arrl.org/hamradio.html
I hope it is some help.