General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is another FCC licensed radio service that is heavily oriented toward family use. GMRS is often a great pathway to Amateur (Ham) Radio Service, though it requires no test and has wider latitude in who is covered by the license holder’s callsign.
As of this writing, the GMRS license fee is $35.00 which provides a 10-year license period under which anyone related to the license holder by blood or marriage can operate under. So one’s spouse, children, parents, aunts and uncles, etc., can operate legally under one callsign. Normally, a tactical callsign is suffixed after the official callsign so that a specific identify can be known. For instance, the license holder could be ABCXY Unit 1, others would be ABCXY Unit 2 and so on.
GMRS uses many of the normal elements of ham radio such as radios, antennas, coaxial cable, power supplies, HTs (handi-talkies), etc.; however, GMRS is very limited in the frequency band that can be used and the output power of radio transmitters used. Normally, in and of itself, this is not a problem but for those aspiring a greater depth of knowledge of radio, Amateur Radio is the next logical step.
In this area, the North Georgia GMRS Network (NGGMRS) is the largest GMRS network in the region and in the continental United States. Their coverage area includes an area from around Knoxville, TN to Ocala, FL, and much of northern Georgia. The network is well-managed, well-maintained, well-monitored and has very specific rules of use for this private, membership-based network. Violations of its rules of conduct can and do lead to revocation of membership. Play by the rules and everyone will have a great time. Membership information is available on their website.
AK4ZX Radio Systems actively supports and endorses the North Georgia GMRS Network. We operate two NGGMRS GMRS repeaters, CHAT-700 AND CHAT-625. CHAT-700 is located in the East Brainerd area of Chattanooga, TN. CHAT-625 is located in the Ooltewah area just north of Chattanooga on I-75.
Skywarn & GMRS.
In the Chattanooga area, Skywarn welcomes the participation of GMRS users. It is highly recommended that anyone wishing to participate, attend a local Skywarn Spotters Class (usually conducted in the Spring) or take the on-line version. This sets the level of knowledge required to easily participate and accurately convey information in such a way to be meaningful to the National Weather Service.
Reviewed for Accuracy and/or Updated: 2023-04-16