FCC Licensing
The use of radios for commercial or private use is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Individuals or entities desiring to operate on frequencies listed in the Industrial/Business Pool must obtain a radio station license for these frequencies. A license is good for a period of 10 years from when it is issued.
Licensing Process
The following checklist will help you navigate the licensing process through three distinct steps:
- Register with the FCC: An account must be registered with the FCC as the owner; this is best completed by the individual who will manage the account.
- Gathering Information: Preparing for a license outlines the important information about your radio system that you gather before you contact a frequency coordinator.
- Frequency Coordination: Frequency coordinators are FCC-certified and a required part of the licensing process. They recommend the most appropriate frequencies for applicants in the designated Part 90 radio services. Applications for new frequency assignments, changes to existing facilities, or operations at temporary locations must include a showing of frequency coordination. The Frequency Coordinator as part of their service will also file your application for you through the Universal Licensing System (ULS).
Register with the FCC
Register with Cores (COmmission REgistration System)
https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
Provides Username & Password
Register for FRN (FCC Registration Number)
https://apps.fcc.gov/coresWeb/publicHome.do
Gathering Infomation
Before you reach out to the frequency coordinator, gather the following details - if uncertain on any of the questions the frequency coordinator can provide guidance :
Note: Operations within 31mi/50km or the Canada/United States or the Mexico/United States Border requires special consideration, make the Frequency Coordinator aware of this detail early in the conversation.
Frequency Coordination
Bad Elf chose Forest Industries Telecommunications (FIT) for our own frequency coordination needs and can, without reservation, recommend their service to you.
https://fcclicense.org/fit/gpsrtk/
The FCC understands that their backlog shouldn't affect your operations. 10 days after your application for licensing has been submitted you may begin operating under a provisional callsign. Your callsign will be the 10-digit phone number associated with your FRN account.