One of the most common questions from new preppers: "Should I get a GMRS or Ham license?" The answer depends on your needs, family situation, and how deep you want to go into radio. Let's break it down.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | GMRS | Ham (Technician) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $35 (10 years) | $35 (10 years) + exam fee $15 |
| Test Required | No | Yes (35 questions) |
| Covers Family | Yes - immediate family | No - individual only |
| Frequencies | 462-467 MHz (22 channels) | Many bands: 2m, 70cm, 10m, etc. |
| Max Power | 50W | 1500W (HF), 50W typical handheld |
| Repeater Access | GMRS repeaters only | Thousands of ham repeaters |
Choose GMRS If...
- ✅ You want your whole family to communicate legally
- ✅ You don't want to take a test
- ✅ You need simple, plug-and-play communication
- ✅ Your main use is local/neighborhood range (1-25 miles)
- ✅ You want compatibility with FRS walkie-talkies
Best GMRS Radios
- Baofeng UV-5G - Budget certified GMRS
- Midland GXT1000VP4 - Easy-to-use pair
- Midland MXT500 - 50W mobile unit
Choose Ham If...
- ✅ You want maximum range and flexibility
- ✅ You're interested in the hobby and technical aspects
- ✅ You want access to thousands of repeaters nationwide
- ✅ You may need HF for long-distance communication
- ✅ You want to participate in ARES/RACES emergency groups
Best Beginner Ham Radios
- Baofeng UV-5R - Ultra-budget entry
- Baofeng BF-F8HP - More power
- Yaesu FT-65R - Quality brand
The "Best of Both" Strategy
Many serious preppers do both. Here's why:
- Get GMRS first: Covers your family immediately, no test
- Study for Ham: Take your time, learn properly
- Pass Technician: Opens up massive repeater networks
- Consider General: Later, for HF long-distance
With both licenses, you have maximum flexibility. Your spouse and kids use GMRS, while you can reach further on ham bands.
What About FRS and MURS?
These are license-free options:
FRS (Family Radio Service)
- No license required
- Limited to 2W on channels 1-7, 22
- Shares frequencies with GMRS
- Range: 0.5-2 miles typically
MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service)
- No license required
- 5 VHF channels, 2W max
- Better building penetration than FRS
- Popular in prepper community (151.940 MHz)
How to Get Licensed
GMRS License
- Go to FCC ULS
- Create an FRN (FCC Registration Number)
- Apply for GMRS license, pay $35
- Receive callsign within days
Ham Radio License
- Study using HamStudy.org (free)
- Find a local exam session at ARRL
- Pass the 35-question Technician exam (need 26 correct)
- Pay exam fee (~$15) and FCC fee ($35)
- Receive callsign within 1-2 weeks
Our Recommendation
For families: Start with GMRS. It's fast, covers everyone, and gets you communicating immediately.
For individuals serious about radio: Get your Ham Technician license. The test is easier than you think, and opens a much larger world.
For maximum preparedness: Get both. Total cost: $70 for 10 years of family + individual coverage.