I agree but I feel we should all uphold the constitution. And it is our job to make sure our politicians do the same. That’s times here if you ask me they’ve gone mad
Yeah, you really only need to bother with that on a repeater (and even then some repeater operators care more than others) or if you live in a really dense area where stores and stuff use them.
I have a membership to the 2 local radio clubs because I use their repeaters and I want to help pay for the upkeep. I also get to do fun volunteering where we direct traffic for events and I can learn about comms. Got my gmrs too. I also use Randy's repeater linked to zello.
Fun fact. My GMRS 10 year renewal is on the same schedule as my colonoscopy schedule. Coincidence? I think they are somehow related, or at least similar in nature.
Unfortunately your UV5R has a detachable antenna, so the FCC is intolerant of its self-identification. Fortunately they also aren't running around hassling people for that, so it won't matter. Don't forget to limit power as well if you want to actually use that excuse, though
One thing I can't stand is all these freaking Licenses to do stuff. You need a license to hunt, a license to fish, a license to drive, a license / permit to have a gun, a license to operate a radio, a ticket / fee is you go too fast, or park in the wrong spot, or a tail light is out. it's hard to believe America is Land of the free with all these permits and licenses and fees everywhere.
When it comes to fishing and hunting those fees go to supporting the hobby. As for driving that's a big 'well duh', And I want driving regulations, speed isn't the issue it's the differential of speed that is the problem, if I'm doing 70 and you feel like going 40, that's a problem. I want gun ownership controlled. I don't want folks parking so close to corner that it makes it really hard to turn safely, Yeah if your tail lights are out it's a hazard, same with malfunctioning break lights. I will say that in my experience those who put forth your position are those who have issues affording to maintain their vehicles, or are lazy and get offended when they park for their own convenience with no regard for others. Usually the same folks that dump their shopping carts right where they are rather than taking them to the coral.
It's important to balance safety and freedom. There's some truly degenerate nitwits who cannot acquire a driver's license and thankfully cannot drive on the road (or at least not for long before getting consequences). If you support that level of anarchy, you have way too much faith in the good of the people and are ignorant to the lengths people will go to satisfy their needs and greed.
Do you remember when a car had to pull over and yield right-of-way to a horse? If they didn't it would be too dangerous for everyone. Of course you don't, you'd be dead by now. But there was a reason for that. There were more horses/carriages on the 'road' than motor cars. But now there are more motor cars than horses...period. Now it's flip flopped, and horses have to stay to the right in heavy traffic areas because it would be dangerous. Rules usually are for safety but can also be to avoid confusion. 4-way stop? I love my freedom, but also understand that rules and orders need to be had as well. I have them in my house to keep the rug rats in line...just because I'm a narcissistic a-hole? Maybe, but also to teach the wee ones how to conduct themselves in a populous society...and to not be like their narcissistic father. As for guns, I trained young on how to use a rifle safely. I learned to shoot a 22 when I was 5yrs old and went from there. By the time I was 12 I'd gotten formal training in conservation, hunting, driving rec vehicles, boating and had 'permits' to prove so. I didn't need them. But it proved that I, at the very least, had some sort of training. (It allowed me to get licenses that I would otherwise have to had waited until I was 16 or 18.)
After watching this excellent monologue - and I mean that sincerely! - I am reminded of this sage adage: "If you can't pronounce it incorrectly, don't try to pronounce it at all." You, sir, are a youtube gem. (And I mean no offense by that.)
Hi Randy. I moved to the US 20 years ago (I'm British) and I love radio communications in any aspect. I admire the concept that you/we cannot be taxed for using the airwaves. l also admire you for have a lovely home where you have great reception.I'm now into short wave listening but It's always educational to learn about the other wavebands. I have learnt very much from you, watching your videos over the last few years. Thanks.
Your videos are great! I did not understand GMRS or why I would want to use it. Your videos have really peaked my interest. I am now have a GMRS license. Me and Several other HAPPY HAMS in my local area are now forming a GMRS club and plan to put up a repeater.
I use the license search and the frequency search on the advanced license search all the time. The only thing that doesn't work is the "geosearch" function.
Well, in spite of all, I got my GMRS license and appreciate your videos that helped me navigate the FCC website. The most important thing I got from you was that patience and persistence is required. Trust me, if an idiot, yet your favorite viewer, like me can do it, anyone can.
Superstar you are! That’s why I’m here. Plus the bonus of your incredible grasp of the English language. No one does it better than you. Please for the love of humanity, DO NOT STOP! 🇺🇸👍🏻
I love your channel, as an Amateur Extra and a GMRS license holder. Not only do I agree with your comments about Hams, and GMRS and even CB users I applaud you for saying it online… I do wish you spoke a little more normally you cadence sometimes gets a little annoying. You do make me laugh and Laugh out loud… Thank you for doing this… 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊 Update 6/2/24 I have gotten used to your cadence and enjoy it now for the theatrical effect on the topic…
Thanks to your channel I decided to get my GMRS license and yes, the website is a dumpster fire. I got it but, had to apply twice and was not approved on one application but was approved on the other. Fortunately I was only charged once. I come here for th honest content. Thanks for what you do and I know you keep on doing what you're doing.
I have my gmrs license and here a few reasons not to get one first people can look up your call sign and find out who you are and where you live this happened to me it freaked me out as I like to be anonymous. Number 2 people will start asking to meet in person and want to show you their radio setup and they want to see yours no thanks that's creepy. Number 3 on repeater channels you all you hear is talk about radio and people asking how do I sound and stuff like it sure is windy today.
Thanks, Randy, and I appreciate the humor, too. I'd like to suggest another reason for getting a GMRS license. If you don't press the PTT button and see what happens here, there, over that ridge, in that low spot, out and about, then you don't know that your equipment works. Did you program the right codes? Are there codes? What are codes? What range do your antenna and terrain permit? Inside the house? In the outhouse? It's like buying a gun and thinking you're ready for the Great Zombie Invasion. You must press PTT and make utterances to verify this stuff works! And, you have to exercise these skills every once in a while to make sure you've still "got commo." In an area like mine where radio people are active and on the air almost every day, voices quickly get matched to people. I'm not going to carry on illegal, unlicensed PTTs in this busier radio "atmosphere." Other potential group members or users you try to recruit may stay away if you're asking them to break the law: I know some like that. Of course, others may not use the radio if they have to expose themselves to US Government intrusion by getting a license. That license could be the straw that breaks the FBI's back and sends them to your door. Never mind the thousands of ways we are already marked for the Gestapo raid, like being a Life NRA member, or just voting Republican, or letting your phone hear you say "Make America Great Again!" So, to summarize I think lacking a license impedes the user from developing radio survival skills and proving that the kit works. Unless you are an outright sovereign citizen giving the govt. the finger, might as well license-up. So, about my AR-15 and my GMRS radio: Come and take it! WRNY751, out.
Just make my day. You make me laugh, as always. Keep doing what you do. And for "The Peoples" or "Sad Ham" who don't like it, then too bad> We need more people like you in this crazy world!
I appreciate you pointing out how silly some peoples' worries about FCC actions really are. In South Carolina's coastal area, there is a group that has established a monopoly on GMRS repeaters. They are such control freaks! Not only do they want to know who you are and why you want to be on their repeaters before giving you their blessing, they want to know the names of everyone operating under your license, their relationship to you, and their unit number under your license. I guess they are scared to death that I might allow my girlfriend to talk using my license and the FCC would shut them down over that. 🙄 Even if the FCC cared, they wouldn't go after them, but after me. What makes people so an-l?
Totally agree… listen to the “nets” of the various orgs around the country and… well… some are full of people that want to help and share - i.e, grow the hobby. Others are obviously filled with folks who were award-winning hall monitors in school. Guess the GMRS culture is just a microcosm of the real world😊
If I had to guess at a reason, it might be the demise of the CB band which became a complete circus until nobody except the completely rude and irresponsible even wanted to use it. Unregulated radio does have a history.
@@audiomaker1- CB is still a good choice for local, short distance comm. SSB is still available for longer contacts. I’d have to check, but I had heard that there isn’t any distance limit on CB/SSB, anymore, either.
The human condition is really something. I quit trying to figure out my 8 billion (plus) fellow humans quite some time ago. I think it was around 1969 in Vietnam.
Feel the same about ham and or any other license gov required or not...how ever just listening is fair. I use a CB to ride the Ionosphere skip scan and listen to the whole world right from my little tiny radio shack , which I hear Radio Shack is making a come back... ....rock on
As a Texan I found that most of the GMRS repeaters, at least the linked ones, cannot be found on repeater databases or at least not free ones, but with a call sign you get access to the repeaters via the network owners
How do you find these paid GMRS repeaters. The only free ones in my area are not close enough to my house, plus I have hills and small mountains all around.
I'm old enough to remember when the CB craze took off, (that old huh?) and with every CB Mobile radio and walkie-talkie was a pre-printed FCC form you sent with a check to the FCC licensing Bureau to Gettysburg, PA along with $5.00 for processing fee. They also instructed applicants to use their initials with their zip code and a "K" prefix while awaiting their license. The bureaucratic system got overloaded in short order, and the FCC Overlords suspended CB licensing requirements in short order. And that's the way it has been ever since, 50 years and running.
And that's the way it should be. The FCC clearly doesn't care about unlicensed users anyway, but they won't get rid of the license (and accompanying fee) because the government is loathe to stop stealing our money.
They required a license for a CB radio, back in the day. Once you could buy one at Kmart and Radio Shack everyone bought one and did not get a license. The FCC gave up and dropped the license. Same thing happened with marine band VHF radios. The same thing will happen with the GMRS radios.
The FCC also dropped the enforcement of analog ham. I read up on it a few years ago, apparently the FCC passed off the ability to enforce analog ham to local law enforcement agencies, and I think that's just so that local emergency services may still use analog ham, that way if you get on the police or fire channels the local law enforcement would have a way to charge a person. And I think that's how we ended up in the situation where the FCC only investigates when interference complaints are made
Remember the early cb licenses started with numbers ? Like 9Q..... FCC forgot that all countries must abide by certain starting letters: US I believe is N, K, W - all US aircraft start with N which is also their radio ID. Anyway FCC had to re-issue all of them.
The Baby Monitor I just bought required me to get a license. I find that odd. I hate test so I just use your call sign when talking on ham frequencies.
Indeed I did navigate the byzantine FCC website, only to be given an error during payment processing. I had to call them. On that call they asked for my name, email address, phone number, and perhaps more before addressing the issue. The lady was professional but it seemed a bit much to me, given that they were the one with the problem. We had to process the payment in a private browsing tab. I have my permission slip and our overlords are appeased. And I must say the call sign was issued overnight. It did not take days.
"dum-tism". Bruh!! you had me rolling! I appreciate the info though. The sarcasm does make it all go down a bit easier though, and I appreciate that. XD
I googled local hams and everything pops up. People's names, addresses, call signs, when they got their license. All right there for everyone to see. Idk if I like that.
New viewer here...and due to the way he speaks...describes the techno bable fluently...and hilarity.....i will be a new subscriber and continue to support this content! fantastic!
I found a cool feature with the UV5rm if you use the discover frequency on frequencies ghat the UV5RM wont transmit on if you just enter the frequency. If you search for said frequency with transmit block the discovered frequency will be open for transmit and recieve. Got to l9ve software errors.
If you look at Randy's other videos, you would understand that it is particular form of sarcastic public comment, just like the Tee shirts that he wears. I like him!
Yes it is important to get your licence for the frequencies to be maintained in service. If no one gets their licence it will seem that there is no usage and eventually the frequencies will get assigned to other usages. The only bummer is how much of a head hake it is to get it and pay for it.
I got may license but my main issue is that I do not need anyone who hears my call sign knowing where I live. That's a huge privacy issue. I constantly hear local GMRS users 'meeting' each other on thr air waves and many write down the call signs to look them up online. One can get a PO box and use that for an address but that's an added expense unless you already have one.
This GMRS license process is painful. Their webpage has had errors loading the page for obtaining your approved license not to mention the mountain of junk to read to find the links, I tell you if not for your easy to follow guide I do not know if many would have had the patience to complete the process. Thank you.
Sir, your delivery is very interesting. I'd say this, though: it's a good thing I'm patient. Waiting through the first 25% of the video before you got to your topic was a test. And I thought my LANDNAV training was full of winding twisties... I passed this test...barely. 😐
Where do you get you sense of humor? You are hilarious bro! I find myself watching just for the commentary. Good info though.. thanks.. keep it up. You are truly a superstar
I think one of the reasons not to get it is something you mentioned before. I could be wrong, but I thought at one point you said that once "registered" then people can search your call sign and find info on where you live. I know you had a work around website for that, but again - paying more monies. No one wants to have everyone know where they live. I think if the overlords made that a private thing many more people would do it.
About three years ago, legislation was passed allowing the FCC to charge for a HAM Operators' lic (my understanding is they were free previously). In exchange, the FCC was to make the GMRS Lic free. They immediately implemented the former, and have yet to implement the latter. If there is an argument against following FCC rules, it's that the FCC fails to follow their own rules/laws. That said... Sure $35 for ten yrs is almost insignificant, and that is EXACTLY the argument for why they shouldn't bother charging for, or providing a GMRS lic at all, as admin costs certainly exceed lic revenue.
The bill required that FCC create a fee structure for all licenses (with some exceptions which don't include amateur radio or GMRS), which meant they were forced to add one for amateur radio. At the same time, they cut the GMRS license fee in half (so it's the same cost as amateur radio). There was never any mandate to eliminate it.
Just putting my tin foil hat on. Perhaps they want to know who has a radio in this day and age off mobile phones and internet, thus concluding that you must be a prepper and when the world goes to hell in a handcart they’ll know where to come to get supplies for their buddies! :-)
@@yakovdavidovich7943 That may be true. However, about 6 months after that legislation passed, I called the FCC. The rep said exactly what I commented (that was their internal interpretation), and went on to say they didn't know when the free lic would actually be implemented. Thanks for your comment, but I stand by my words (which were the FCC's words).
I managed to walk 3 people through the GMRS sign-up in an evening. One guy was able to go straight through the process without any hiccups. There was an issue with a verification code not going to email for 2 people, but a call to the FCC got a real person who was able to resend the codes on both occasions. These days, web experiences are so streamlined that we take for granted it'll be easy. If you think buying a GMRS license is for you, then don't be discouraged by what you hear about the website before giving it a shot!
Subscription dumpster fire, so true. Got mine trying to be responsible and proper. But now I scan in my truck and apparently theres and there's some kids on the upper higher power channels in my area....
can you point me out to the area of the FCC website where it explains how to pay with USA Dollars or Postal Money order purchased with USA dollars, and the address to mail it to.
Thinking about the FCC website leaves me with the cold sweats, a dry mouth and then I start to shake and then I black out. They really need to fix that.
I got a license but have yet to hear anyone announce their call sign on GMRS. It's kind of a weird situation that will probably never be regulated because GMRS share frequencies with the unlicensed FRS band. True story: There were children playing on a repeater frequency yesterday. Clearly not FRS radios, but they aren't going to know the difference. The waters are too murky for any enforcement to be practical. I think they should open it up to the public like CB. Half the people you hear on CB are using illegal power, so not much of a difference in that regard.
I'm not tec savvy but I had no problem with the FCC website. Took me about a half hour from beginning to end. I do have my call sign but I have yet to talk on my GMRS handheld radio because I don't know anyone in my area that has GMRS. How do you find people? That would be great help for me.
GMRS is not primarily for "finding people". GMRS is for keeping in contact with family/your group while hiking, etc. To "find people" try the Grindr app or H.A.M. radio.
Australia have an 80 channel, license free UHF citizens band available for anyone to use. You do get everything from traffic control, to truck drivers, 4wd, campers, the whole kit and kaboodle. Repeaters need to be licensed, but they are jammed with people talking on the input. Can't understand in the "land of the free", why you've got to pay to use air and are limited to a 1/4 of the channels.
It’s like you were reading my mind. Thinking to myself at work today….. I wonder if there a good video about getting a gmrs license and bam found your video….. not even a hour old. 🤣
So I think I successfully navigated the process of requesting a permission slip from the FCC but it’s been a week and no response from them. Is this normal? I would think this process is more about collecting money than anything else.
I got mine in about 3 days but I never got any notification from them. Sign in to your account and look under "licenses" (or, something like that) and it should show the status. If you cant find it/they haven't processed it, call them and make them work for that $35 - i have read reports that their phone support is actually pretty good.
There are so many GMRS radios out there it would be impossible for the FCC to suddenly declare those frequencies no longer may be used as such and for another purpose.
That is not the actual risk. The actual risk is that the FCC would suddenly auction the GMRS band off for some industrial application and from that point on, all you would hear is a digital buzz 24/7. I would admit that it's not very likely, but that's how they operate. It has happened to ham bands.
Half of your video is a bunch of nonsence. Why cant you cut the crap and get to the video? Also why do we have to listen to you in a 2.5x speed.
I make my videos the way I make them, not the way you think i should make them. If this makes you sad, you should go away.
Found the SAD HAM.
Lol sad ham😂
There it is... point and laugh... works every time.
You don’t have to listen to shit, you don’t like listening just move on.
"Dumpster fire" is a perfect description of the FCC website
A dumpster full of a mixture of gasoline and raw sewage! 🤣
I spent an hour trying to find my license list. Maybe I'm just dumb...
Have you dealt with any other alphabet agencies? They are typically all like that!
Perfect description of any government website really…
Glad I "must" only go there once every decade.
I got my GMRS license, thanks to Randy's videos, and now I can legally emit spurious emissions.
I usually don't worry about spurious emissions until after my third cup of coffee.
@@mikeg3754real. Taco Bell hits hard
Our politicians don't follow the law and the Constitution, why should we?
I once used that argument to get out of jury duty.
They just vote to change it to suit their needs or their pocket stuffer's needs, so all's fair.
because unlike politicians, we’re held accountable
Truth
I agree but I feel we should all uphold the constitution. And it is our job to make sure our politicians do the same. That’s times here if you ask me they’ve gone mad
I got my GMRS liscense but I don't bother using my call sign because no one needs to know where I live.
It's true. I use his call sign so people won't know where I live.
Yeah, you really only need to bother with that on a repeater (and even then some repeater operators care more than others) or if you live in a really dense area where stores and stuff use them.
I have a membership to the 2 local radio clubs because I use their repeaters and I want to help pay for the upkeep. I also get to do fun volunteering where we direct traffic for events and I can learn about comms. Got my gmrs too. I also use Randy's repeater linked to zello.
I need to know where you live, I've been trying to reach you about your belt clip's extended warranty.
@@creepin9928😂😂😂
Awesome response!
Fun fact. My GMRS 10 year renewal is on the same schedule as my colonoscopy schedule. Coincidence? I think they are somehow related, or at least similar in nature.
Only hams are allowed to talk about colonoscopies!!!
Is that due to the spurious emissions?@@N2YTA
😂
🤣
Fun fact. Because I'm a physician credentialed to do colonoscopies, I'm not required to have a GMRS license.
Once I speed the feed to 1.5 speed, your videos go much better. Ty.
Same
The Shatnerian pace has come to dominate in his videos...
I watch them at 2x speed and I still waste my time hahahaha
😂😂😂😂
You can get the same info lots of places, the reason you watch this guy is the humor
I dont need the license because my UV5R identifies as an FRS radio. Come on man...
Who says he identifies as "man" it's very presumptive of you. 😂
Unfortunately your UV5R has a detachable antenna, so the FCC is intolerant of its self-identification.
Fortunately they also aren't running around hassling people for that, so it won't matter.
Don't forget to limit power as well if you want to actually use that excuse, though
Lol!!! 😂
@hyperlogos
What an insane government we have. Hope Brendan Carr changes some things.
One thing I can't stand is all these freaking Licenses to do stuff. You need a license to hunt, a license to fish, a license to drive, a license / permit to have a gun, a license to operate a radio, a ticket / fee is you go too fast, or park in the wrong spot, or a tail light is out. it's hard to believe America is Land of the free with all these permits and licenses and fees everywhere.
But you don’t need an ID to elect the “leader of the free world”.
When it comes to fishing and hunting those fees go to supporting the hobby. As for driving that's a big 'well duh', And I want driving regulations, speed isn't the issue it's the differential of speed that is the problem, if I'm doing 70 and you feel like going 40, that's a problem. I want gun ownership controlled. I don't want folks parking so close to corner that it makes it really hard to turn safely, Yeah if your tail lights are out it's a hazard, same with malfunctioning break lights. I will say that in my experience those who put forth your position are those who have issues affording to maintain their vehicles, or are lazy and get offended when they park for their own convenience with no regard for others. Usually the same folks that dump their shopping carts right where they are rather than taking them to the coral.
Some people like to feel like well cared for children. They think of the government as their parental authority.
It's important to balance safety and freedom. There's some truly degenerate nitwits who cannot acquire a driver's license and thankfully cannot drive on the road (or at least not for long before getting consequences). If you support that level of anarchy, you have way too much faith in the good of the people and are ignorant to the lengths people will go to satisfy their needs and greed.
Do you remember when a car had to pull over and yield right-of-way to a horse? If they didn't it would be too dangerous for everyone. Of course you don't, you'd be dead by now. But there was a reason for that. There were more horses/carriages on the 'road' than motor cars. But now there are more motor cars than horses...period. Now it's flip flopped, and horses have to stay to the right in heavy traffic areas because it would be dangerous.
Rules usually are for safety but can also be to avoid confusion. 4-way stop?
I love my freedom, but also understand that rules and orders need to be had as well. I have them in my house to keep the rug rats in line...just because I'm a narcissistic a-hole? Maybe, but also to teach the wee ones how to conduct themselves in a populous society...and to not be like their narcissistic father.
As for guns, I trained young on how to use a rifle safely. I learned to shoot a 22 when I was 5yrs old and went from there. By the time I was 12 I'd gotten formal training in conservation, hunting, driving rec vehicles, boating and had 'permits' to prove so. I didn't need them. But it proved that I, at the very least, had some sort of training. (It allowed me to get licenses that I would otherwise have to had waited until I was 16 or 18.)
After watching this excellent monologue - and I mean that sincerely! - I am reminded of this sage adage: "If you can't pronounce it incorrectly, don't try to pronounce it at all." You, sir, are a youtube gem. (And I mean no offense by that.)
it's an attention getting device, demonstrating his independence without any real risk
'Freedom Speech' is the best speech
I am an online psycholologist and also work part time at Arby’s, and I approve of this video.
I think you missed the last psyccholologist meeting at the Arby's grease trap, we won't get the Union now
Hi Randy. I moved to the US 20 years ago (I'm British) and I love radio communications in any aspect. I admire the concept that you/we cannot be taxed for using the airwaves.
l also admire you for have a lovely home where you have great reception.I'm now into short wave listening but It's always educational to learn about the other wavebands. I have learnt very much from you, watching your videos over the last few years. Thanks.
Love fish and chips!
@@kd741 Wrapped in newspaper, loads of salt and vinegar. The only way.
Has anyone seen the sheer carnage of operating a baofeng UV5R on GMRS without a license?… Me neither
The old guys on my local repeater would think the world is coming to an end of you don't have a license and call sign!😂
@@daveclark1904I got my license and got on to some of the repeaters in my area.. they really are mostly boring old cranky farts.
Some of the old guys seem to trust the government without question. That's how we got to the point where the government doesn't respect its citizens.
I’m a happy ham and GMRS licensee. I love sharing the airways with licensed and non licensed people.
Thanks!
Thank YOU!
Your videos are great!
I did not understand GMRS or why I would want to use it. Your videos have really peaked my interest. I am now have a GMRS license. Me and Several other HAPPY HAMS in my local area are now forming a GMRS club and plan to put up a repeater.
I felt a great disturbance in the Fudd, as if millions of sadhams suddenly cried out in terror an were ignored.
I lol every time I hear or see the term "sad ham" 😂
What channel were they on? No one cares.
Dude .
The world of CB needs you.
Dealing with the FCC website is a fun afternoon exercise.
I use the license search and the frequency search on the advanced license search all the time. The only thing that doesn't work is the "geosearch" function.
I just had to do it this weekend, I know what you're talking about.
I gave up on it. Following their own directions got me no where. My brother has a gmrs license. Im covered.
Haha, yes indeed! I've spent a few afternoons navigating it for myself and with friends.
Would you call it "character-building?"
Well, in spite of all, I got my GMRS license and appreciate your videos that helped me navigate the FCC website. The most important thing I got from you was that patience and persistence is required. Trust me, if an idiot, yet your favorite viewer, like me can do it, anyone can.
Thanx, you saved us $35!
Superstar you are! That’s why I’m here.
Plus the bonus of your incredible grasp of the English language.
No one does it better than you.
Please for the love of humanity, DO NOT STOP! 🇺🇸👍🏻
I love your channel, as an Amateur Extra and a GMRS license holder. Not only do I agree with your comments about Hams, and GMRS and even CB users I applaud you for saying it online…
I do wish you spoke a little more normally you cadence sometimes gets a little annoying. You do make me laugh and Laugh out loud…
Thank you for doing this…
😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Update 6/2/24 I have gotten used to your cadence and enjoy it now for the theatrical effect on the topic…
Xenu be praised! His eyes uncovered. 🎉😂
Thanks to your channel I decided to get my GMRS license and yes, the website is a dumpster fire. I got it but, had to apply twice and was not approved on one application but was approved on the other. Fortunately I was only charged once. I come here for th honest content. Thanks for what you do and I know you keep on doing what you're doing.
I have my gmrs license and here a few reasons not to get one first people can look up your call sign and find out who you are and where you live this happened to me it freaked me out as I like to be anonymous. Number 2 people will start asking to meet in person and want to show you their radio setup and they want to see yours no thanks that's creepy. Number 3 on repeater channels you all you hear is talk about radio and people asking how do I sound and stuff like it sure is windy today.
Thanks, Randy, and I appreciate the humor, too. I'd like to suggest another reason for getting a GMRS license. If you don't press the PTT button and see what happens here, there, over that ridge, in that low spot, out and about, then you don't know that your equipment works. Did you program the right codes? Are there codes? What are codes? What range do your antenna and terrain permit? Inside the house? In the outhouse?
It's like buying a gun and thinking you're ready for the Great Zombie Invasion. You must press PTT and make utterances to verify this stuff works! And, you have to exercise these skills every once in a while to make sure you've still "got commo."
In an area like mine where radio people are active and on the air almost every day, voices quickly get matched to people. I'm not going to carry on illegal, unlicensed PTTs in this busier radio "atmosphere." Other potential group members or users you try to recruit may stay away if you're asking them to break the law: I know some like that.
Of course, others may not use the radio if they have to expose themselves to US Government intrusion by getting a license. That license could be the straw that breaks the FBI's back and sends them to your door. Never mind the thousands of ways we are already marked for the Gestapo raid, like being a Life NRA member, or just voting Republican, or letting your phone hear you say "Make America Great Again!"
So, to summarize I think lacking a license impedes the user from developing radio survival skills and proving that the kit works. Unless you are an outright sovereign citizen giving the govt. the finger, might as well license-up. So, about my AR-15 and my GMRS radio: Come and take it! WRNY751, out.
Just make my day. You make me laugh, as always. Keep doing what you do. And for "The Peoples" or "Sad Ham" who don't like it, then too bad> We need more people like you in this crazy world!
Thaaaaank You, Randy ! You have said all the things I believed all along but hearing it spoken out loud to me IS priceless !
I appreciate you pointing out how silly some peoples' worries about FCC actions really are. In South Carolina's coastal area, there is a group that has established a monopoly on GMRS repeaters. They are such control freaks! Not only do they want to know who you are and why you want to be on their repeaters before giving you their blessing, they want to know the names of everyone operating under your license, their relationship to you, and their unit number under your license. I guess they are scared to death that I might allow my girlfriend to talk using my license and the FCC would shut them down over that. 🙄 Even if the FCC cared, they wouldn't go after them, but after me. What makes people so an-l?
Totally agree… listen to the “nets” of the various orgs around the country and… well… some are full of people that want to help and share - i.e, grow the hobby. Others are obviously filled with folks who were award-winning hall monitors in school. Guess the GMRS culture is just a microcosm of the real world😊
If I had to guess at a reason, it might be the demise of the CB band which became a complete circus until nobody except the completely rude and irresponsible even wanted to use it.
Unregulated radio does have a history.
@@audiomaker1- CB is still a good choice for local, short distance comm. SSB is still available for longer contacts.
I’d have to check, but I had heard that there isn’t any distance limit on CB/SSB, anymore, either.
The human condition is really something. I quit trying to figure out my 8 billion (plus) fellow humans quite some time ago. I think it was around 1969 in Vietnam.
So you have a gmrs hoa basically
Feel the same about ham and or any other license gov required or not...how ever just listening is fair. I use a CB to ride the Ionosphere skip scan and listen to the whole world right from my little tiny radio shack , which I hear Radio Shack is making a come back... ....rock on
I just did my GMRS license yesterday, and did it on my phone no less. It wasnt that bad.
I so love your witty remarks. So true and to the point even though some will still think they are not stupid but in reality they really are.
As a Texan I found that most of the GMRS repeaters, at least the linked ones, cannot be found on repeater databases or at least not free ones, but with a call sign you get access to the repeaters via the network owners
@@aaronmoore3050nope you just need to register an account and a callsign to access the tones and stuff.
How do you find these paid GMRS repeaters. The only free ones in my area are not close enough to my house, plus I have hills and small mountains all around.
I'm old enough to remember when the CB craze took off, (that old huh?) and with every CB Mobile radio and walkie-talkie was a pre-printed FCC form you sent with a check to the FCC licensing Bureau to Gettysburg, PA along with $5.00 for processing fee. They also instructed applicants to use their initials with their zip code and a "K" prefix while awaiting their license. The bureaucratic system got overloaded in short order, and the FCC Overlords suspended CB licensing requirements in short order. And that's the way it has been ever since, 50 years and running.
And that's the way it should be. The FCC clearly doesn't care about unlicensed users anyway, but they won't get rid of the license (and accompanying fee) because the government is loathe to stop stealing our money.
Holy crap. You’re not kidding about the FCC website, i had to outsmart the site just to complete my transaction
Every time I've had to do anything on the fcc web site regarding my ham license it took like 3 hours to figure out the crap
I bought my gmrs just to say i have it and good for 10 years. Your show is amazing as always 🎉
Thanks for the video Randy. Certainly made my day.
I am totally adding "confuculation" to my vernacular. I laughed way too hard at that.
They required a license for a CB radio, back in the day. Once you could buy one at Kmart and Radio Shack everyone bought one and did not get a license. The FCC gave up and dropped the license. Same thing happened with marine band VHF radios. The same thing will happen with the GMRS radios.
The FCC also dropped the enforcement of analog ham. I read up on it a few years ago, apparently the FCC passed off the ability to enforce analog ham to local law enforcement agencies, and I think that's just so that local emergency services may still use analog ham, that way if you get on the police or fire channels the local law enforcement would have a way to charge a person. And I think that's how we ended up in the situation where the FCC only investigates when interference complaints are made
Yeah, I am one of 10 people, maybe 12 that got the CB license. Still have it somewhere. I think it's KTF4292.
Remember the early cb licenses started with numbers ? Like 9Q..... FCC forgot that all countries must abide by certain starting letters:
US I believe is N, K, W - all US aircraft start with N which is also their radio ID. Anyway FCC had to re-issue all of them.
The Baby Monitor I just bought required me to get a license. I find that odd. I hate test so I just use your call sign when talking on ham frequencies.
You must teach your baby to say the callsign, so the FCC's don't come after you and kick your door down.
We all do.
@@brockdt I don't think the FCC will bother me and my Baofeng 😎
It was a joke.@@cliffandrews
LOL the baofeng noise at the end was a nice touch.
Indeed I did navigate the byzantine FCC website, only to be given an error during payment processing. I had to call them. On that call they asked for my name, email address, phone number, and perhaps more before addressing the issue. The lady was professional but it seemed a bit much to me, given that they were the one with the problem. We had to process the payment in a private browsing tab. I have my permission slip and our overlords are appeased. And I must say the call sign was issued overnight. It did not take days.
The FCC website is horrific, all the different portals, forms, services etc. It’s horrendously put together, and is so mf complicated.
"dum-tism". Bruh!! you had me rolling! I appreciate the info though. The sarcasm does make it all go down a bit easier though, and I appreciate that. XD
I googled local hams and everything pops up. People's names, addresses, call signs, when they got their license. All right there for everyone to see. Idk if I like that.
In Europe we have “PMR446” similar to the GMRS tier in the USA… we don’t have to pay anything to use PMR446 or have a license. Same for CB Radio bands
You're limited to 2 watts. So, that makes it more like the FRS not the gmrs
New viewer here...and due to the way he speaks...describes the techno bable fluently...and hilarity.....i will be a new subscriber and continue to support this content! fantastic!
As a zoomer who recently got a GMRS permission slip, using the FCC website reminded me of that one time I had to buy stamps at post office.
I found a cool feature with the UV5rm if you use the discover frequency on frequencies ghat the UV5RM wont transmit on if you just enter the frequency. If you search for said frequency with transmit block the discovered frequency will be open for transmit and recieve. Got to l9ve software errors.
Good to know. Thanks
Crap this reminds me I am late for my shift at Arby's!!! Lol Another great video my dude. Keep them coming!
I just convince myself I am using the FRS frequncies.
In a weird way, your videos inspired me to mosh through the FCC websites to get my license. But you make very good points.
If you look at Randy's other videos, you would understand that it is particular form of sarcastic public comment, just like the Tee shirts that he wears. I like him!
I use cb radios with a many Fars booster.
Licensing puts you on a list!
Commenting on ScrewTube puts us on a list
So does a social security number, dork
If you're not already on a list, you're living a boring life.
Your sense of humor is hilarious, never change my friend
Yes it is important to get your licence for the frequencies to be maintained in service. If no one gets their licence it will seem that there is no usage and eventually the frequencies will get assigned to other usages.
The only bummer is how much of a head hake it is to get it and pay for it.
Since FRS shares all the same frequencies except for the repeater inputs I highly doubt the FCC will get rid of public use of those frequencies.
I got may license but my main issue is that I do not need anyone who hears my call sign knowing where I live. That's a huge privacy issue. I constantly hear local GMRS users 'meeting' each other on thr air waves and many write down the call signs to look them up online.
One can get a PO box and use that for an address but that's an added expense unless you already have one.
This GMRS license process is painful. Their webpage has had errors loading the page for obtaining your approved license not to mention the mountain of junk to read to find the links, I tell you if not for your easy to follow guide I do not know if many would have had the patience to complete the process.
Thank you.
Too late got my call sign last week. Thanks Randall.
Sir, your delivery is very interesting. I'd say this, though: it's a good thing I'm patient. Waiting through the first 25% of the video before you got to your topic was a test. And I thought my LANDNAV training was full of winding twisties... I passed this test...barely. 😐
I would have never gotten my GMRS license without your guide. The chaos of the FCC website is insane.
I could care less about the topic, the comedic delivery always hits the mark. Love it 😂
Thank you for your helpful advice.
The GMRS test is the FCC website itself.
Is the GMRS license page in the same government page that has the congress insider traiding licenses? Asking for a friend.
Yes but by the same UN that handed out the needles for all those little pin cussions 😂😂
Great video as always thanks mate 👍
Well, I got my slip mostly due to your content. But dumpster fire is an understatement. Thanks for all the great content.
Yes because a dumpster fire is entertaining
Where do you get you sense of humor? You are hilarious bro! I find myself watching just for the commentary. Good info though.. thanks.. keep it up. You are truly a superstar
I think one of the reasons not to get it is something you mentioned before. I could be wrong, but I thought at one point you said that once "registered" then people can search your call sign and find info on where you live. I know you had a work around website for that, but again - paying more monies. No one wants to have everyone know where they live. I think if the overlords made that a private thing many more people would do it.
About three years ago, legislation was passed allowing the FCC to charge for a HAM Operators' lic (my understanding is they were free previously). In exchange, the FCC was to make the GMRS Lic free. They immediately implemented the former, and have yet to implement the latter. If there is an argument against following FCC rules, it's that the FCC fails to follow their own rules/laws.
That said... Sure $35 for ten yrs is almost insignificant, and that is EXACTLY the argument for why they shouldn't bother charging for, or providing a GMRS lic at all, as admin costs certainly exceed lic revenue.
The bill required that FCC create a fee structure for all licenses (with some exceptions which don't include amateur radio or GMRS), which meant they were forced to add one for amateur radio. At the same time, they cut the GMRS license fee in half (so it's the same cost as amateur radio). There was never any mandate to eliminate it.
Just putting my tin foil hat on. Perhaps they want to know who has a radio in this day and age off mobile phones and internet, thus concluding that you must be a prepper and when the world goes to hell in a handcart they’ll know where to come to get supplies for their buddies! :-)
@@yakovdavidovich7943 That may be true. However, about 6 months after that legislation passed, I called the FCC. The rep said exactly what I commented (that was their internal interpretation), and went on to say they didn't know when the free lic would actually be implemented. Thanks for your comment, but I stand by my words (which were the FCC's words).
I've been a licensed amateur for 50 some years, there was always a fee.
I managed to walk 3 people through the GMRS sign-up in an evening. One guy was able to go straight through the process without any hiccups. There was an issue with a verification code not going to email for 2 people, but a call to the FCC got a real person who was able to resend the codes on both occasions. These days, web experiences are so streamlined that we take for granted it'll be easy. If you think buying a GMRS license is for you, then don't be discouraged by what you hear about the website before giving it a shot!
Thanks for posting this 👍🇺🇸👍
First…. Because that’s what’s important these days.
Subscription dumpster fire, so true. Got mine trying to be responsible and proper. But now I scan in my truck and apparently theres and there's some kids on the upper higher power channels in my area....
Thank you Randy 👍🇺🇲
Yeah so many people get the fcc mixed up with the atf and think they'll kick in your dog and shoot your door.
Got a lulz out of that
😂😂😂😂😂
And then eat your doughnuts.
😂😂😂
Had a good laugh! Thanks for the info!
can you point me out to the area of the FCC website where it explains how to pay with USA Dollars or Postal Money order purchased with USA dollars, and the address to mail it to.
Thinking about the FCC website leaves me with the cold sweats, a dry mouth and then I start to shake and then I black out. They really need to fix that.
A few drinks outta do the trick.
Why even bother paying taxes?
Thank You for another informative video, appreciated here in AK. 👍
I got a license but have yet to hear anyone announce their call sign on GMRS. It's kind of a weird situation that will probably never be regulated because GMRS share frequencies with the unlicensed FRS band. True story: There were children playing on a repeater frequency yesterday. Clearly not FRS radios, but they aren't going to know the difference. The waters are too murky for any enforcement to be practical. I think they should open it up to the public like CB. Half the people you hear on CB are using illegal power, so not much of a difference in that regard.
Born free taxed to death!!to many fees and license fees now!!
What are the names of some linear that I should not buy and what watt should I not buy for mobile or Bass home?
I'm not tec savvy but I had no problem with the FCC website. Took me about a half hour from beginning to end. I do have my call sign but I have yet to talk on my GMRS handheld radio because I don't know anyone in my area that has GMRS. How do you find people? That would be great help for me.
GMRS is not primarily for "finding people". GMRS is for keeping in contact with family/your group while hiking, etc. To "find people" try the Grindr app or H.A.M. radio.
How long did it take for the FCC to process your application and respond with your call sign?
Australia have an 80 channel, license free UHF citizens band available for anyone to use. You do get everything from traffic control, to truck drivers, 4wd, campers, the whole kit and kaboodle. Repeaters need to be licensed, but they are jammed with people talking on the input.
Can't understand in the "land of the free", why you've got to pay to use air and are limited to a 1/4 of the channels.
How many things do we need a GD license to use??? Next there will be a paper cup & string license.
So funny 🤣. Great video of yours 🙏
if i am on FRS, how can anyone tell its GMRS. Unless it is a repeater.
They can't.
It kind of blurs the lines of who is using the channels in question when they're shared by both FRS and GMRS.
It’s like you were reading my mind. Thinking to myself at work today….. I wonder if there a good video about getting a gmrs license and bam found your video….. not even a hour old. 🤣
I guess I’m just use to jacked up government websites, so I knew when it said go left… I went right.
So I think I successfully navigated the process of requesting a permission slip from the FCC but it’s been a week and no response from them. Is this normal? I would think this process is more about collecting money than anything else.
I got mine in about 3 days but I never got any notification from them. Sign in to your account and look under "licenses" (or, something like that) and it should show the status.
If you cant find it/they haven't processed it, call them and make them work for that $35 - i have read reports that their phone support is actually pretty good.
I'm not getting a license, don't need no stinking gmrs badges.
Yeah we don't need no stinking badges😅
Vamanos
From the Vatican
@@Sam-ls4noyeah, the UN.. the Vax ppl.
Great videos! Thanks Randy
Love your TV screen!
There are so many GMRS radios out there it would be impossible for the FCC to suddenly declare those frequencies no longer may be used as such and for another purpose.
That is not the actual risk. The actual risk is that the FCC would suddenly auction the GMRS band off for some industrial application and from that point on, all you would hear is a digital buzz 24/7. I would admit that it's not very likely, but that's how they operate. It has happened to ham bands.
They reassigned frequencies of old garage door openers. Just saying it does happen
I get through the system and get to payment and CORES will not take my username and password. And yes I have FRN registration.
Thank you my friend!