Not sure if your two-way radios require an FCC license? Freedom 2-Way Radios can help.
Reliable communication starts with choosing the right two-way radios — and making sure they're properly licensed when required. Many commercial two-way radio systems operate on frequencies regulated by the Federal Communications Commission, which means businesses must obtain the appropriate license before using them.
Whether you're buying your first business radio system, expanding an existing one, or renewing a license, we can help you navigate the requirements so you can focus on keeping your team connected.
Do You Need an FCC License for Your Two-Way Radios?
It depends on the radio. Here's where every radio we sell falls:
License required — FCC Part 90 business radios
These operate on VHF or UHF business frequencies, which require an FCC license before use:
BPR40 · BPR50dX UHF, BPR50dX VHF · CLP1010E, CLP1080E · CLS1110, CLS1410 · CM200d, CM300d · CP100d · EVX-S24 · R2 · RMU2040, RMU2080, RMU2080d, RMV2080 · SL300 · RDU4100, RDU4160D, RDV5100 (discontinued)
No individual license required — 900 MHz digital radios
These operate on the 900 MHz ISM band, which doesn't require an individual business radio license:
CURVE · DTR700 · DLR1020, DLR1060 (discontinued)
No FCC radio license required — push-to-talk over cellular
These communicate over LTE and Wi-Fi networks rather than licensed radio spectrum, so no FCC radio license is needed. They do require a subscription:
TLK110, TLK150, TLK25-LTE, TLK25-WiFi
Not sure which category your radios fall into? Ask us — we'll tell you before you order.
Why FCC Licensing Matters
- Stay compliant. Operating on frequencies that require a license without authorization can violate FCC regulations and lead to enforcement action or penalties.
- Minimize interference. Licensed business radio applications involve frequency coordination to reduce interference with other radio users nearby — which matters most in busy commercial and industrial areas.
- Support reliable communication. A properly planned and authorized system is one you can depend on.
- Plan for growth. Adding radios, expanding into another building, or installing a repeater all have licensing implications. Knowing them in advance saves rework.
FCC Licensing Services
- New radio-to-radio licensing — for new business two-way radio systems
- New repeater licensing — for repeater systems that extend coverage
- License renewals — to maintain authorization for continued operation
- License modifications — when your business or system changes
- Construction notification filings — where required for applicable licensed systems
How It Works
You don't need to be a radio expert to get started.
- Tell us about your needs. The radios you're buying or already using, your location, coverage requirements, and any existing license.
- We help determine what's required. Based on your system and how you'll use it, we identify whether a license is needed and what kind.
- We help coordinate the process. We work with experienced industry resources on licensing paperwork, frequency coordination, and FCC submissions.
- Get your team connected. Once authorization is in place, your radios can be configured to operate under your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Motorola two-way radios require an FCC license?
No. Motorola's commercial VHF and UHF radios require an FCC Part 90 license, but 900 MHz models like the DTR700 and CURVE do not need an individual business radio license, and TLK radios operate over cellular networks rather than licensed spectrum. It depends on the specific model.
Do I need a separate FCC license for every radio?
No. One business radio license can authorize multiple radios operating within its parameters. The number of radios, frequencies, locations and system configuration all factor into the application.
How long does an FCC business radio license last?
Many FCC Part 90 business radio licenses run for a 10-year term. The license holder is responsible for tracking the expiration date and renewing on time — the FCC does not send reminders.
Can I use my radios while waiting for license approval?
Generally you should not operate on frequencies requiring a license until authorization is in place. Certain FCC rules allow conditional operation in qualifying circumstances. Ask us about your situation before you transmit.
What happens if I operate without a license?
Operating on licensed frequencies without authorization can result in FCC enforcement action, including monetary penalties. It can also cause interference with other licensed users, including public safety systems.
Can you help if I already have a license?
Yes. We assist with renewals and modifications, as well as licensing for expanding or updating an existing system.
Which radios can I use with no license at all?
The Motorola CURVE and DTR700 operate on the 900 MHz ISM band and need no individual FCC license. TLK radios use cellular and Wi-Fi networks, so they need no FCC radio license either, though they do require a subscription.
Need Help With FCC Licensing?
The right radios. The right frequencies. Help with the paperwork.
Whether you're buying a new Motorola radio system or managing an existing one, we can help you understand your licensing requirements and work through the process.
Contact us about FCC licensing →
Licensing requirements vary by equipment, frequency, and intended use. FCC licenses are issued by the Federal Communications Commission, and the license holder is responsible for maintaining valid authorization and complying with applicable regulations. Licensing and coordination fees may apply.
