Legal Use of BaoFeng as a Walkie-Talkie: Regulations and Frequencies

Is it legal to use a BaoFeng radio as a walkie-talkie? The answer depends on your specific location and the intended use of the device. BaoFeng radios are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, but it's crucial to understand the legal regulations surrounding their use to avoid fines and legal issues.

Licensing and Regulations

Using a BaoFeng radio as a walkie-talkie is subject to specific regulations that vary by country. In the United States, BaoFeng radios operate on amateur radio frequencies, which require an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license to transmit legally. If you are only listening and not transmitting, you do not need an FCC license.

In the UK, the situation is different. For instance, business users would need to purchase a Business Licensing (Part 95) license for ￡75, which lasts for 5 years before needing renewal. This license is required if you want to use frequencies that are not open for unlicensed use.

Choosing the Right Frequencies

BaoFeng radios can be used on a variety of frequencies, which can lead to legal issues if improperly used. Here are some key frequency ranges and their uses:

VHF (Very High Frequency) Band

The VHF band is commonly used for outdoor communication and is divided into low, mid, and high bands. While the VHF low band is rarely used for walkie-talkies, specific frequencies for use in the US are:

VHF Low Band: 77.6875 MHz 86.3375 MHz 86.3500 MHz 86.3625 MHz 86.3750 MHz VHF Mid/High Band: 164.0500 MHz 164.0625 MHz 169.0875 MHz 169.3125 MHz 173.0500 MHz 173.0625 MHz 173.0875 MHz

These frequencies are authorized for use in the US and may be suitable for legal walkie-talkie use.

UHF (Ultra High Frequency) Band

The UHF band is more commonly used for general walkie-talkie use due to its better penetration through buildings and greater range. Specific frequencies in the UHF band for US use are:

449.3125 MHz 449.4000 MHz 449.4750 MHz 458.7875 MHz 458.8000 MHz 458.8125 MHz 458.8250 MHz

Legal Alternatives

If you want to use a radio for short-range communication without licensing issues, consider using FRS (Family Radio Service) or GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios. These are designed for walkie-talkie use and have fewer restrictions.

FRS and GMRS Radios

FRS radios are available for unlicensed use and can be used for personal, non-commercial purposes. However, the range is limited to 1.5 miles and the channels are shared with other users.

GMRS radios, on the other hand, do require a license but offer a wider range and more powerful transmission. They are designed for commercial use and can be used for business communication, but you must register and get a license for each device.

Cases of Illegal Use

Despite the legal channels, BaoFeng radios are occasionally used illegally. For example, Walmart associates have been observed using BaoFeng UB-5Rs for their work, as Walmart typically uses MURS (Multiple Use Radio Service) channels. However, there have been instances where businesses have used shared frequencies, leading to legal issues.

Illegal Uses of BaoFeng Radios

In recent years, there have been instances of illegal use, particularly during conflicts. For instance, during the clashes between BLM (Black Lives Matter) activists, Antifa, and self-proclaimed 'patriots', a number of businesses, including Walmart, were using BaoFeng radios on GMRS/FRS frequencies. This led to interference and potential legal issues, highlighting the importance of compliance with regulations.

Conclusion

While BaoFeng radios can be a useful tool for walkie-talkie communication, it's important to understand the legal regulations in your area. Always check your local laws and regulations to ensure compliance, especially if you plan to use the device for business or commercial purposes. Using the correct frequencies and obtaining any necessary licenses can prevent legal issues and ensure safe and efficient communication.