Rugged Two-way radios operate on radio frequencies that are regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A license is required to transmit on these frequencies. Below is a list of the different frequency bands we support and information about usage and licensing.
Radio Licensing and Programming
BUSINESS BAND
Business Band radio is a high-powered band used by professional racers and to support day-to-day business activities in commercial and industrial environments. Advantages of Business Band include higher power allowances, more robust equipment, and simple user interfaces. An application and frequency coordination (to ensure communications do not interfere with others) is required to obtain a Business Radio license. Licensing covers workers operating under the direction of the licensee business. The cost is typically a few hundred dollars. For more information, visit: https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/bureau-divisions/mobility-division/industrial-business.
To ensure our customers are operating Business Band Radios in compliance with FCC Rules and Regulations, Rugged Radios has licensed frequencies/channels which are available to transmit for business or professional race use :
• 10 nation-wide commercial band frequencies (35 Watt)
• 60 area-specific commercial band frequencies (60-Watt)
To license your own frequency, we recommend FIT https://fcclicense.org/fit/
To sign up for the Rugged Radios FCC License Sharing Agreement, log in or create an account.
RADIO PROGRAMMING SOFTWARE
PROGRAM YOUR HANDHELD OR MOBILE RADIO AT HOME
RT Systems
(800) 921-4834
GET YOUR OWN FREQUENCY
APPLY FOR YOUR OWN FREQUENCY / CHANNEL
Forest Industries Telecommunications
(888) 583-2929
GMRS BAND
General Mobile Radio Service, or GMRS Radios, operates on specific UHF frequencies set aside by the FCC for general public use, and is popular for overland, Jeep, outdoor & adventure, and general recreational uses.
To legally operate GMRS radios a valid FCC license is necessary.
No test is required to obtain a GMRS license. Licenses are valid for 10 years and cover any family member, regardless of age. For more information, visit:
How to get your GMRS License: CLICK HERE
Get more information about GMRS: CLICK HERE
AMATEUR BAND
Amateur Radio, also known as Ham, is a popular hobby radio platform that connects people through various forms of radio communication. Amateur Radio is used to communicate on the trail, across town, or even into space. A large, and active, network of repeaters and users across the world makes this a very active and social platform that can also serve as a lifeline during times of need or distress.
A test is required to obtain an Amateur Radio license and only covers the individual. Testing can be performed locally or online. The cost is typically about $15. For more information, visit the links below.
How to get your Amateur Band license: CLICK HERE
Find an online exam: CLICK HERE
Get more information about Amateur Radio Service: CLICK HERE