Do you need a high powered two way radio, but don't want to deal with the hassle of licensing? MURS may be the answer, particularly if you plan to use the radio outdoors where VHF frequencies are most effective.
The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) is a two-way radio service consisting of five frequencies in the VHF spectrum. Established by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the fall of 2000, MURS is a radio service allowing for "licensed by use" operation, meaning that a FFC issued license is not necessary to operate a MURS transmitter. The FCC formally defines MURS as "a private, two-way, short distance voice or data communications service for personal or business activities of the general public". There are some limitations to MURS: radio power is limited to 2 watts, MURS stations may not be connected to the public telephone network, radio repeaters are not permitted, and the highest point of any MURS antenna must not be more than 60 feet above the ground or 20 feet above the highest point of the structure on which it is mounted.
Since MURS exists within the VHF spectrum, it has the potential to become very popular among the traveling community and outdoor enthusiasts. VHF characteristics are ideal for short-distance ground communication, with a range generally somewhat farther than line-of-sight. Although there are limitations on transmitter power output and antenna height, there are no restrictions on the use of external antennas. The range for vehicle-to-vehicle communications with MURS can be much greater than that for the Family Radio Service (FRS). Outdoor activities are benefited by the increased range over the FRS, allowing for base camps to utilize antennas to stay in contact with campers and emergency personnel.
MURS operation is authorized anywhere a CB station is authorized.
- Within or over any area of the world where radio service are regulated by the FCC
- Any other area of the world, except within the territorial limits of areas where radio services are regulated by either an agency of the United States other than the FCC or any foreign government (Subject to either parties rules)
- Aboard any vessel of the United States, with the permission of the captain, while the vessel is traveling either domestically or in international waters
MURS operation is not authorized aboard aircraft in flight.
MURS stations may transmit voice or data signal as permitted in FCC regulation Section 95.631.
Determined quickly whether a radio is legal to use on MURS:
- If the radio is Part 95 certified and operates on MURS frequencies
- If the radio was Part 95 certified prior to November 12, 2002 and transmits no more than 2 watts, and has no external control to increase power above 2 watts and only operates wideband on the 154 MHz frequencies (all parts must be true)
- If the Radio was Part 90 certified prior to November 12, 2002 and transmits no more than 2 watts and has no external control to increate power above 2 watts and does not narrowband on the 151 MHz and 154 MHz frequencies or narrowband on 151 MHz and wideband on 154 MHz frequencies (all parts must be true)
The following are the frequencies authorized for use by the MURS:
| Frequency | Authorized Bandwidth |
| 151.820 MHz | 11.25 kHz |
| 151.880 MHz | 11.25 kHz |
| 151.940 MHz | 11.25 kHz |
| 154.570 MHz (also part of business band) | 20.00 kHz |
| 154.600 MHz (also part of business band) | 20.00 kHz |
Click here for a list of radios that we currently offer supporting the MURS frequencies.
