GMRS / FRS Channel Chart

FRS

Both the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) and the Family Radio Service (FRS) share the same channels in the UHF band, with the exception of the repeater input channels.  Using the FM mode, both were designed for personal or group communications.  FRS is limited to a 2 watt power output from a hand held or portable unit, with a non-removable antenna. FRS radios are not permitted to use repeaters.  A license is not required.

GMRS

Due to the higher power output capability of 50 watts, GMRS does require a license.  Power output is based on the channel in use.  Base, mobile, hand held and repeater stations may be used.  Repeaters may also be linked together to further extend range.  External high gain antennas are allowed.  CTCSS and DCS codes are also in use.  

Channels

A channel may be made up of one or more frequencies, which can form a communication path.  A simplex channel consists of one frequency for both transmit and receive.  A duplex channel consists of two frequencies.  One for transmit and the other for receive.  A repeater uses a duplex channel.   

The Chart

This chart shows the frequencies, power levels, estimated range and common uses of the GMRS and FRS shared channels.  It also has a list of the tone codes used for filtering out unwanted conversations and interference.  It can be downloaded to your device or printed out, as needed.

Click on the chart below to download your own copy

CTCSS / DCS Tones

Tone Codes

Certain codes are used to filter out unwanted radio signals or interference.  Repeaters also use such codes to allow access. These codes, often referred to as PL, privacy codes or other terms are divided into CTCSS and DCS codes.  CTCSS codes are sub-audible tones that are measured by audio frequency in hertz.  DCS codes are bit streams that are added to a radio carrier.  Consumer grade radios often just have a ID code number to identify each specific code.  The actual CTCSS or DCS codes are not provided by these manufacturers.  The codes listed in the FRS / GMRS Channel Chart are Midland.  Both Midland and Motorola ID codes for CTCSS codes up to 38 are the same.  The DCS codes are different.  There is a way to match Midland and Motorola DCS codes so that the radios will work together. 

Matching the Codes   

Midland and Motorola radios, as well as the majority of consumer two-way radios already use the same CTCSS ID codes up to 38.  Midland and Motorola DCS ID codes can be matched by taking the Midland ID code and adding the number 38.  For example, to find the Motorola DCS ID code for Midland code 17, add 17 + 38 = 55.  The Motorola ID code is 55.  To find the Midland DCS ID code from a Motorola radio, just subtract 38 from the Motorola code. 

Commercial Radios

For most commercial grade radios, the CTCSS or DCS codes are programmed directly.  For example, a CTCSS code of 136.5 is selected and programmed.  A DCS code of 423 would normally be entered as D423N.  Programming software and terminology may vary.

Match the Radios

Remember, for each radio to communicate with another, the same channel and CTCSS or DCS code must be entered in all the radios.  The universal CTCSS code for radios to communicate with others while traveling or other reasons is 141.3 hertz.  If you enter "0" or no code, you will hear others, but they may not hear you. 

Privacy

Some manufacturers use terms such as "privacy code". Keep in mind that no privacy is provided by using CTCSS or DCS codes.  Such codes only filter out radio signals that don't have the matching code.  When your receive code is active, you will not hear other communications on the same channel.  Anyone listening without the codes enabled can hear your conversation.  Use caution not to communicate private or financial information.  If you wouldn't want it posted on the internet, don't talk about it on the radio.