When you turn on a two-way radio, you’re operating on parts of the wireless spectrum regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC manages the airwaves to prevent interference between users, and that includes rules about licensing, equipment, power limits, and where specific radios can operate.
For schools, businesses, public safety teams, and industrial operations across Olympia and Washington State, following FCC rules isn’t optional — it keeps your radios working reliably and protects your organization from enforcement actions, fines, or equipment seizures.
Before we break down the key rules, here’s a simple framing:
FCC regulations ensure that radios designed for professional use do not conflict with other critical services, while still offering you clear, dependable communication.
FCC Part 90 rules and general radio service guidance are available directly from the FCC:
• FCC Part 90 Business and Industrial Radio Services: fcc.gov/wireless/bureau-land-mobile-radio-services/industrialbusiness
• FCC Equipment Authorization and Certification: fcc.gov/engineering-technology
Understanding the Role of the FCC
The FCC governs the use of the radio frequency (RF) spectrum under the Communications Act of 1934. Its mission includes “spectrum management” so that users — whether emergency responders, schools, or businesses — can communicate without interfering with each other.
For two-way radio users, FCC rules generally divide into licensed services and license-by-rule (unlicensed) services.
Licensed Radio Services
Most professional and high-powered radio systems used in schools, businesses, and industrial environments require an FCC license to operate.
Business and Industrial Land Mobile Radio (Part 90)
This is the most common category for commercial two-way radios. Part 90 licenses are location specific, meaning they assign frequencies coordinated to prevent interference with nearby systems. These are ideal for construction sites, campuses, utilities, and large facilities.
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)
GMRS is available to individuals and families with a license. A single individual license covers the licensee and their immediate family. GMRS allows higher power and repeater operation, but it is not intended for typical business or school communication.
License Term
Most FCC business licenses, including Part 90, are valid for ten years and must be renewed before expiration to remain compliant.
License-by-Rule (Unlicensed) Services
The FCC allows a few services to operate without an individual license, as long as FCC rules are followed and FCC-certified equipment is used.
Family Radio Service (FRS)
Common retail walkie-talkies fall under FRS. They are limited to low power (typically 0.5 to 2 watts) with fixed, non-removable antennas. They are intended for short-range, non-commercial use.
Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS)
MURS operates on five specific VHF channels and does not require a license for personal or business use. However, power is limited to 2 watts, which restricts usable range, especially inside buildings.
Citizens Band (CB) Radio
CB operates on 40 shared channels and does not require a license. Users must still rely on FCC-certified equipment, and power amplifiers/linear amplifiers are prohibited. CB remains popular in trucking and long-haul communication.
Equipment Certification and Compliance
Licensing is only one part of compliance. The radio hardware itself must meet FCC technical standards.
FCC ID Certification
Every legal two-way radio sold in the U.S. must carry an FCC ID label. This shows the device has been tested for emissions, bandwidth, and interference standards.
Narrowbanding Requirements
Since January 1, 2013, most Part 90 business systems must operate using narrowband 12.5 kHz channels. Wideband equipment no longer compliant with this rule may expose the owner to enforcement if still in service.
Enforcement and Penalties, What You Should Know
The FCC continues to increase its enforcement focus on unauthorized or uncertified radios, imported units, and devices that transmit on restricted bands.
Unauthorized operation — whether from uncertified hardware or unlicensed use of restricted frequencies — can result in warnings, fines, or equipment seizure. Penalties are not fixed, and violations can range up to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the nature of the violation, duration, and whether it involves public safety or aviation bands.
These regulations are summarized for general informational purposes; specific requirements may vary by service and location.
Quick Summary of Common Radio Services
| Service | License Required? | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Business Radio (Part 90) | Yes | Professional / Enterprise |
| GMRS | Yes (Individual) | Personal / Family |
| FRS | No | Short-Range Consumer |
| MURS | No | Business / Personal (Limited) |
| CB Radio | No | Shared, Highway / Trucking |
Why FCC Compliance Matters
Staying FCC compliant is about more than paperwork or avoiding fines. It ensures your communication system doesn’t interfere with critical services, and it helps you operate with confidence knowing your radios work reliably when needed.
At Whisler Communications, we have helped organizations across Washington State navigate FCC licensing, frequency coordination, and equipment compliance since 1959. From filing FCC Form 601 to setting up coordinated repeater systems, we make compliance and performance part of your communication solution.
Contact us for a free compliance review of your radio system.
