Cost of FCC 2-Way-Radio License

[hedgehopper]

Recently I bought a pair of Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two-Way Radios so my wife and I can communicate with each other when she is hiking and I am at our campsite. Now I see that the box says "FCC License Required."

Apparently there is a cost of $70 just to submit an application. And I have no idea what the license costs or how long it is good.

And it seems that we can't even try out the radios to see if they are suitable for the intended purpose and return them if they are not without paying the FCC a bunch of money. HELP!

Can you clue me in as to what I got myself into, what it will cost, and how to avoid paying a bunch of $ to the FCC if we decide these won't be suitable for us?

Thanks.

[BurbMan]

According to the product details, these radios have a 36-mile range over flat ground, so you should be able to get a couple miles of range even if it's hilly. You don't say where DW is hiking, whether around the CG or on park trails, vs. up in the mountains.

I have a set of the lower-power FRS radios and you're lucky to get one mile of range in a forested area.

I would try the radios and see if they will work in your environment at the distances you want. If you decide to keep them, send in the $70 and get the license, if not return them and don't bother with the license.

[04fxsts]

We have a set but don't use them much, several years old Midland brand. Some of the channels on the radios are the lower power channels that do not require a license, use them as you will. Not much range but still useable. Jim.

[wa8yxm]

I thought it was 80 (Back when I had one) the appliccation cost is the only cost.

Fine for not having one 2,000/day

[rk911]

using the GMRS requires a license. and you’re supposed to have the license before using them. you have better odds of winning powerball than getting caught trying out your equipment. however, a GMRS handheld commnicating with another GMRS handhels will have a useful range of several miles over flat terrain with no obstructions..trees, hills, buildings, etc. useful range will drop
off fast in urban, woody or hilly areas. caution: the Family Radio Service (FRS) uses frequencies in the same range as GMRS. your GMRS radios may be able to operate on the FRS frequencies. radios operating on FRS channels must do so at lower power. your GMRS radio may have the option to operate on FRS channels but check your owner’s manual.

[garym114]

The cost for the GMRS license is still $70.

https://www.buytwowayradios.com/blog/2021/03/new-fcc-license-fees-to-take-effect-april-2021.html

[CA_Traveler]

AFAIK the GMRS fee is $70/family for 10 years. And AFAIK this applies for 1 day or 10 years of usage per the rules and frankly I wouldn't even consider attempting to getting any paid fee refunded... You can Google GMRS to confirm.

Don't know it these radios will work for your situation due to low power and restricted range like trees and hills,