Is it illegal to own a Baofeng UV-5R?

While it's true many of the Baofengs are wide open on any frequency in the 136–174Mhz and 400–520Mhz range, and it is illegal to import, market and sell these devices, it is not illegal to own or operate these devices if you are a licensed Amateur radio operator and you are operating only on amateur radio frequencies.

Why Is the Baofeng illegal?

Because these devices must be, but have not been, authorized by the FCC, the devices may not be imported into the United States, retailers may not advertise or sell them, and no one may use them.

Are Baofeng radios FCC approved?

The FCC asserts that Amcrest marketed Baofeng model UV-5R-series FM hand-held radios capable of transmitting on “restricted frequencies.” The Baofeng models UV-5R and UV-5R V2+ were granted an FCC equipment authorization in 2012 to operate under Part 90 Private Land Mobile Radio Service (Land Mobile) rules.

What happens if you transmit on a ham radio without a license?

Key Points: You need a license to transmit on a ham radio, but not to listen. The penalties for transmitting on a ham radio without a license include seizure of equipment, fines, and civil/criminal penalties.

Can I use Baofeng UV-5R as walkie-talkie?

The baofeng UV-5R is dual band and most certainly does cover MURS, which is an acceptable choice if you want a commercial "walkie-talkie" to be able to talk to an amateur radio. If you're stuck with FRS/GMRS then that's fine too, FRS is also licence-free (but GMRS is not).

Baofeng UV-5R Radios Illegal? The Real Story - Ham Radio Q

Is Baofeng a ham radio?

The Baofeng UV-5R is an economical Dual Band UHF/VHF Amateur Radio that's extremely compact. With 128 channel capacity and up to 12 hours of battery life, the UV-5R is a good choice for ham radio operators who need mobility at low cost.

Are Baofeng radios safe?

ALL Baofeng Radios Are Illegal To Use In Australia. Most of these radios come in Illegally and are Programmed with Police and other frequencies that interfere with licensed users and Public Safety Radios. These Radios are Dangerous.

Can I use BaoFeng UV 5R without license?

The baofengs are easy to program for FRS/GMRS frequencies. Also, it is perfectly legal to transmit on ham frequencies without a license in an emergency.

What bands can you transmit on without a license?

Almost all GMRS radios also support FRS frequencies, which can be used without a license. Channels 8-14 on a typical 22 channel consumer radio reserved exclusively for FRS. These channels can be used license-free, but are limited to a half watt of transmit power and will have limited range.

How do I get a BaoFeng license?

Go to the FCC License Manager and type in your FRN and password, the click SUBMIT. The next page will show your current licenses. I am a licensed radio amateur, so the screenshot below shows the status of my amateur radio license. To apply for a GMRS license, click on “Apply for a new license.”

Are ham radios illegal?

Federal law generally prohibits radio broadcasts without a license issued by the FCC. Anyone found operating a radio station without FCC authorization can be subject to a variety of enforcement actions, including seizure of equipment, fines and other civil and criminal penalties.

Can I use a BaoFeng as a marine radio?

Not only can I work the ham bands, the radio can be programmed for MURS bands and Marine bands. There is no FCC certification for these two bands, but we know when in an emergency, one uses what one has available.

What is the range on BaoFeng UV 5R?

Features – Original 2012 Product Launch (1st Gen.) The BaoFeng UV-5R is a compact hand held transceiver providing 4 watts in the frequency range of 136-174 MHz and 400-480MHz (520MHz later versions).

Is the BaoFeng UV-5R discontinued?

Baofeng Dual-Band UV-5R discontinued now.. Replaced by Tri-Band UV-5X3...

Is a BaoFeng worth it?

Our Verdict. The BaoFeng BF-F8HP wins our Top Pick Award as the best radio for properly licensed ham radio operators. It can only be used legally by those who have a valid Technician ham radio license or higher. It has an amazing amount of settings, its battery lasts quite a while, and it has an unbeatable range.

What is the most powerful BaoFeng radio?

The Most Powerful One Yet: BaoFeng BF-F8HP (High Power). The BF-F8HP is the third and final generation of the UV-5R.

Are Baofeng walkie talkies illegal?

While it's true many of the Baofengs are wide open on any frequency in the 136–174Mhz and 400–520Mhz range, and it is illegal to import, market and sell these devices, it is not illegal to own or operate these devices if you are a licensed Amateur radio operator and you are operating only on amateur radio frequencies.

How far can a Baofeng reach?

BaoFengs use the very high frequency (VHF) and ultra-high frequency (UHF) parts of the spectrum, which are limited by terrain and only travel from one to ten miles under most normal conditions.

What is illegal radio use?

For example, Californians have their own state ban on listening to cellular radio telephones (Penal Code Section 632.5). Cordless phone listening is prohibited by Penal Code Section 632.6 which requires the interception be malicious and without the consent of all parties to the communication.