Can you use Baofeng Radios on GMRS? - OneSDR

Yes, you can use a Baofeng radio on the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) frequencies, but there are some important considerations and legal requirements to keep in mind.

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Quick Summary

Popular amateur radios like the UV-5R and BF-F8HP cannot legally be used for GMRS
The following Baofeng Radios can be used for GMRS
- GM-15 Pro
- GM-5RH
- UV-5G Plus GMRS
- UV-5R GMRS

Let’s take a closer look at Baofeng Radios and GMRS

Understanding GMRS and Baofeng Radios

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a licensed radio service in the U.S. that operates on specific frequencies in the 462 MHz and 467 MHz UHF bands. It is primarily used for short-distance, two-way communication for personal or family use, such as during outdoor activities, emergencies, or neighborhood communication.

Baofeng radios, such as the popular UV-5R or BF-F8HP models, are low-cost, programmable handheld transceivers that can operate on a wide range of frequencies, including the GMRS band. However, they are technically classified as amateur radios (Part 97 of the FCC regulations) and are not certified by the FCC for use on GMRS frequencies (Part 95E).

Legal Considerations

FCC Certification: For a radio to be legally used on GMRS frequencies in the United States, it must be certified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for Part 95E use. Most Baofeng radios, including the UV-5R and similar models, do not have this certification. Therefore, using them on GMRS frequencies technically violates FCC regulations.
GMRS License Requirement: To legally operate on GMRS frequencies, you need to obtain a GMRS license from the FCC. This license is relatively easy to get, costs about $35 for a 10-year period, and covers you and your immediate family members. Even with a license, you are still required to use an FCC-certified GMRS radio.
Type-Accepted Radios: The FCC requires radios used on GMRS to be “type-accepted” specifically for GMRS, which ensures that the radio complies with the technical standards and restrictions necessary to minimize interference and promote efficient use of the spectrum. Baofeng radios are typically not type-accepted for GMRS.

Can You Use a Baofeng Radio on GMRS?

Many Baofeng radios are capable of transmitting on GMRS frequencies, and some users program them to do so. However, it is not legal to do so in the United States because they are not FCC-certified for GMRS use.

If you choose to use a Baofeng radio on GMRS, here are some important points to consider:

Power Output: GMRS regulations specify power limits for certain channels. For example, GMRS handheld radios are typically limited to 5 watts, while repeater-capable channels can allow up to 50 watts of power. Baofeng radios can exceed these limits if not programmed correctly, which could lead to legal issues or interference with other users.
Bandwidth and Modulation: GMRS radios are required to use specific bandwidths (typically 12.5 kHz for narrowband operation) and FM modulation standards. Baofeng radios can be programmed to conform to these standards, but they do not do so automatically out of the box.
Use at Your Own Risk: While many people use Baofeng radios on GMRS frequencies, it’s important to understand that doing so is technically illegal in the U.S. unless the radio is specifically FCC-certified for GMRS. There may be penalties for non-compliance, including fines.

Which Baofeng Radios are Certified for GMRS?

GM-15 Pro

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The Baofeng GM-15 Pro is a GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) handheld radio designed for long-range communication. It operates on the GMRS frequencies, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and emergency preparedness.

Key Features:

GMRS Frequencies: Pre-programmed with 22 GMRS channels and 8 GMRS repeater channels, offering extended communication range.
Power Output: 5W power output for strong signal transmission.
Dual Watch: Monitor two channels at once.
NOAA Weather Alerts: Built-in NOAA weather channels to keep you updated on weather conditions.
Battery: 1500 mAh battery, providing long battery life for extended usage.
USB-C Charging: Convenient charging via USB-C port.
VOX Functionality: Hands-free communication with Voice-Activated Transmission.

Pros:

Long Range: Great for outdoor and off-grid communication.
Repeater Capable: Enhances range when used with GMRS repeaters.
Weather Alerts: Stay updated with emergency weather broadcasts.

Cons:

GMRS License Required: A GMRS license is needed to legally operate on GMRS frequencies in the U.S.
Non-Waterproof: Not ideal for heavy rain or wet conditions.

GM-5RH

The Baofeng GM-5RH is a GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) handheld radio designed for users who need reliable, long-range communication. It’s ideal for outdoor activities, off-road adventures, and emergency communication.

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Key Features:

GMRS Frequencies: Supports all 30 GMRS channels, including 8 GMRS repeater channels for extended range.
High Power Output: Offers 5W, providing better range and signal strength.
Dual Watch: Allows monitoring of two channels simultaneously.
NOAA Weather Channels: Provides access to NOAA weather updates and alerts.
Repeater Capable: Can connect to GMRS repeaters for extended range.
Battery: 1800mAh battery for decent operational time.
USB-C Charging: Convenient charging through modern USB-C port.

Pros:

Good Range: High power and repeater compatibility enhance communication distance.
Weather Alerts: NOAA channels help keep you informed about weather conditions.
Dual Watch: Allows you to monitor two important channels at the same time.

Cons:

GMRS License Required: You need a GMRS license to operate legally in the U.S.
Basic Durability: Not as rugged or waterproof as some other models.

UV-5G Plus GMRS

The Baofeng UV-5G Plus is a GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) handheld radio designed for users who need reliable, long-range communication, particularly for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or emergency preparedness. It is an upgrade to the popular UV-5R model but tailored specifically for GMRS use.

Key Features:

GMRS Frequencies: Supports 22 GMRS channels and 8 GMRS repeater channels for extended range communication.
Power Output: Offers up to 5W of output power for increased range and signal strength.
Dual Band: Allows you to monitor two GMRS channels simultaneously.
NOAA Weather Alerts: Provides access to NOAA weather channels, ensuring you stay updated with real-time weather alerts.
Repeater Capable: Connects to GMRS repeaters to extend communication range.
Battery: Comes with a 1800mAh rechargeable battery, offering long usage time.
USB-C Charging: Features USB-C charging for more convenient power options.
Rugged Design: Improved durability for outdoor use with a stronger build.

Pros:

Strong Performance: 5W power output ensures good range, especially in open environments.
Repeater Access: Repeater compatibility boosts communication range.
Weather Alerts: NOAA weather updates are crucial for outdoor safety.

Cons:

GMRS License Required: A GMRS license is necessary to operate legally in the U.S.
Not Waterproof: While more durable, it’s not fully waterproof, limiting use in wet conditions.

UV-5R GMRS

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The Baofeng UV-5R GMRS is a popular, budget-friendly handheld radio that has been adapted specifically for GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) use. It’s well-known for its versatility and is widely used by hobbyists, outdoor enthusiasts, and preppers.

Key Features:

GMRS Frequencies: Supports 22 GMRS channels and 8 GMRS repeater channels, providing a wide range of communication options.
Power Output: Offers up to 5W of output power, giving decent range in both urban and rural areas.
Dual Watch: Allows you to monitor two channels simultaneously.
NOAA Weather Alerts: Provides access to NOAA weather updates and emergency alerts.
Repeater Capable: Can connect to GMRS repeaters to extend communication range.
Battery: Comes with a 1800mAh battery that offers several hours of usage time.
USB-C Charging: Convenient charging option via USB-C port.
Affordable: One of the most cost-effective GMRS radios available.

Pros:

Affordable: Great value for the features and performance it offers.
Repeater Access: Enhances communication range with GMRS repeaters.
Dual Watch: Ability to monitor two frequencies simultaneously.
Weather Alerts: Important for outdoor and emergency use.

Cons:

GMRS License Required: A GMRS license is required for legal operation in the U.S.
Not Very Rugged: The UV-5R GMRS isn’t the most durable radio, so it may not hold up in rough outdoor conditions.
Basic Antenna: The stock antenna may limit range compared to models with high-gain antennas.

Conclusion

While Baofeng ham radios can technically be programmed to operate on GMRS frequencies, it is not legal to do so in the U.S. due to FCC certification requirements.

If you want to operate on GMRS frequencies legally, you should use an FCC-certified GMRS radio and obtain the appropriate GMRS license.

In this post, we have provided a list of GMRS certified Baofeng Radios.

Alternatively, consider getting an amateur radio license to use Baofeng and similar radios legally on the amateur bands. Always check and follow your country’s regulations regarding radio communications to ensure compliance.

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