General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is similar to ham radio but has more restrictions on permitted frequencies, power and modes of operation. It is intended to be a two-way radio service for members of a household to communicate around town. GMRS is more versatile than Family Radio Service (FRS). GMRS allows the use of repeaters and higher power levels than FRS. It works like business band radio, covering an entire city or possibly a metro area.. GMRS is a great service for people interested in reliable local communications without the study and testing required for an amateur radio license. Many GMRS users also volunteer in emergencies like ham radio operators. They may use there equipment to provide communications for shelters, points of distribution and other areas where communication may be needed.
How to get started
Getting started in GMRS is as simple as visiting the FCC’s website at the link provided below and filling out the application. The FCC charges a nominal fee for the license which must be renewed every ten years. The license covers the immediate family members living in the same house.
The following is a list of repeaters in the Rio Grande Valley. Program mobile or handheld radios as follows:
| Receive | Transmit | Tone | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| 462.550 | 467.550 | 141.3 | Mission |
| 462.575 | 467.575 | 100.0 | McAllen |
| 462.625 | 467.625 | 82.5 | Pharr |
Helpful Links
Mission Area GMRS https://www.missiongmrs.org/
My GMRS https://mygmrs.com/
Apply for a license https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp