We use GMRS (or FRS) radios to communicate during the Jeep Food Ride. We recommend any GMRS or FRS radio made after October of 2017 as the FCC standardized all channels and frequencies during that time period. Complete details on GMRS are below. If you participate in a Jeep Jamboree or many other off-road events, you’ll find the GMRS is a common requirement.
If You Don’t Have GMRS Radio Yet
Your easiest and best option is to purchase a unit from the preferred Jeep Jamboree Communication Sponsor, Midland. They make a quality product that is easy to understand and use. We recommend either of the following products:
- Handhelds – https://midlandusa.com/collections/x-talker/products/t71vp3
- In-Jeep – https://midlandusa.com/collections/micromobile/products/mxt275vp4-micromobile-two-way-radio-bundle-1
Radio Differences and Frequencies
- In late 2017, the FCC standardized the channel numbers/ frequencies for FRS/GMRS. Any FCC approved radio manufactured after October of 2017 is required to use the standardized channel numbering and corresponding frequencies. This means that Midland, Cobra, Uniden, etc. all work together.
Frequencies and Power (See the reference chart below)
- FRS and GMRS use the exact same channels/frequencies but at different power levels.
- FRS is “Family Radio Service” which runs at a lower power.
- GMRS is “General Mobile Radio Service” and runs at higher power.
- Both FRS and GMRS are only supposed to transmit at .5 watts on Channels 8-14.
Licensing
- FRS is “licensed by rule” by the FCC, meaning that you do not need a license to operate at FRS power.
- The FCC requires a GMRS license as a way to regulate frequencies that are used by two-way radio devices. Before operating a GMRS radio, you must have a valid license. Any radio using the shared FRS/GMRS frequencies that is able to transmit above 2 Watts of power was reclassified as GMRS only after the recent FCC Changes in September 2017. GMRS radios can be handhelds or in-unit mobile radios.
- Licensees must be 18+ and be an individual (not a business).
- There isn’t a test. Just pay $70 and you’re good for 10 years.
- The license covers you and your immediate family (husband, wife, kids, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.).
- You must follow the rules set forth by the FCC.
- Sign-up at https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp
Why GMRS over FRS?
- GMRS has more power, meaning you can transmit farther.
- While FRS handhelds work fine in many cases, the lower transmit power and shorter antennas mean that there are situations where you may be able to hear the trail leader or others on the trail, but they may not hear you.
- If someone is using a GMRS and transmitting, an FRS will usually receive just fine. An FRS has less power so it can’t transmit as far.
- If both parties are using FRS in an obstructed area or are far apart, they may not be able to transmit or receive to each other.
Frequency Chart
