We had some interest from
@libertybele ,
@Cyber Liberty ,
@DB , in getting the Ham radio license. @Weird Tolkienish Figure mentioned FRS and GMRS, and neither of these require taking a test, so I thought I would provide some info on those.
GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) is a more restricted license than Amateur radio, but it does not require taking a test to get a license. You just fill out an application, pay $70 to the FCC, and you get a license. What's really cool about it is that YOUR license allows your immediate family (kids, spouse, parents, grandparents, nieces/nephews, uncles/aunts) to transmit as well. And the FCC has announced they will be lowering the license fee (IIRC it will be $35), although they seem to be taking their sweet time about implementing the new cost in their computer system.
GMRS is increasingly popular. It uses a range of frequencies in the UHF band (462 - 467 MHz). Because it's in these higher frequencies, it's only really useful for short range communications (you won't be bouncing signals off the ionosphere to talk with someone in Japan). Typically you can count on at least a mile range with a 5-watt handheld device, although in perfect conditions, you can often reach 15-16 miles. As GMRS has increased in popularity, repeaters are popping up in many locations. With a repeater, it's often possible to communicate much longer distances - as much as 100 miles, although typically 40-50 miles is more realistic.
GMRS is very simple. There are 30 channels (frequencies). 8 of these are reserved for use with repeaters. GMRS shares the other 22 channels with FRS (Family Radio Service - more on this below). Typically the radio you buy will have the power limits and channels all configured, so it's not something you'll have to worry about. This simplicity is one of the things that makes it attractive. GMRS is very popular with hunters and people doing other outdoor activities.
As I mentioned above, FRS (Family Radio Service) shares channels with GMRS. It is unlicensed, meaning you can just buy a FRS radio and start using it. However, the power limits on FRS are much lower, so if you can afford it, I recommend getting a GMRS license and radio.
If people are interested, let me know and I will share some more info, including some recommendations on radios.