The Baofeng UV-5R is not FCC-certified for general, non-amateur use but is permissible for licensed amateur radio operators who use it within authorized ham bands.
The Baofeng UV-5R has been the subject of much discussion regarding FCC approval. While the UV-5R was initially marketed as an amateur radio, capable of operating on both VHF and UHF frequencies, it was found to transmit on a broader range of frequencies than allowed for devices certified for amateur use.
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Additionally, it was capable of transmitting at higher power levels than permitted on certain non-amateur bands, such as FRS and GMRS, leading to regulatory scrutiny.
FCC Certification Status
The FCC had flagged certain Baofeng UV-5R models in the past due to compliance issues. Specifically:
- Amateur Radio Use: For licensed amateur (ham) radio operators, the UV-5R can legally be used on amateur bands (e.g., 144-148 MHz and 420-450 MHz in the United States). The radio itself is not restricted to these bands, but using it outside these frequencies without the appropriate certification or license would be considered non-compliant.
- Part 15 and Part 95 Compliance: The FCC requires that radios marketed for non-amateur use (like FRS or GMRS) be certified under Part 15 (for unlicensed devices) or Part 95 (for personal radio services). The Baofeng UV-5R does not meet these certifications due to its high power output and removable antenna, making it unsuitable for use as an FRS or GMRS device in compliance with U.S. regulations.
Recent Changes and Models
Baofeng has released updated models like the Baofeng UV-5X3 and Baofeng BF-F8HP, which address some compliance concerns by restricting certain frequencies. However, these models still primarily target the amateur radio market and may not fully meet certification requirements for non-amateur use.
In summary, the Baofeng UV-5R is not FCC-certified for general, non-amateur use but is permissible for licensed amateur radio operators who use it within authorized ham bands.