Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lefty Radio League?

The Lefty Radio League is a community for a wide range of leftists to come together and learn to use radio in a friendly, supportive, inclusive environment. We define "the left" loosely as those of us who believe that capitalism is not compatible with democracy, freedom, or human dignity. We focus on radio for emergency preparedness and community support — but we also like to have fun.

Why radio for lefties?

Two-way radio lets us communicate and organize horizontally: without depending on the state, business, non-profits... not even cell service, the internet, or the power grid! (if you have some batteries charged beforehand)

What kind of radio should I get: GMRS or Ham?

It depends on your goals. GMRS radios are simple to use (like walkie talkies), require no test to get a license, and are relatively cheap (starting around $30). Ham radios are more complex but offer more flexibility, access to many more frequencies, and can communicate over much greater distances. Many people start with GMRS and later add Ham to their toolkit.

What's the difference between GMRS and FRS radios?

FRS (Family Radio Service) radios are cheaper but have lower build quality, less power, and worse reliability than GMRS radios. Avoid FRS if you can! Some GMRS radios can also use repeaters, which FRS cannot.

Do I need a license to use a GMRS radio?

Technically, yes. Anyone can buy a GMRS radio, but you're supposed to have a license to use one. The FCC seemingly never enforces this requirement. (This is not legal advice.) However, you won't be able to get permission to use GMRS repeaters without a license, and that practice is crucial for preparing for effective emergency response.

How much does a GMRS license cost?

The license is $35, there's no test required, it lasts 10 years, and covers everyone in your family. You can get your license from the FCC website.

Do I need a license to use a Ham radio?

Yes. Anyone can buy a Ham radio, but to transmit, the FCC requires you to pass a test and get a license. Without a license and call sign, no one will talk to you on the air, so you won't get the practice you need.

What are the different Ham license classes?

There are three license classes:

• Technician: The first license. 35 multiple-choice questions from a pool of 412. Gives you access to most VHF/UHF bands and very limited HF access.
• General: Same number of questions as technician, not much harder. Gives you access to many more HF frequencies.
• Amateur Extra: 50 questions from a pool of 700. It's challenging! Gives you access to all Ham frequencies.

How do I study for my Ham license?

The best resource is HamStudy.org. Go to "Technician" and select "Study Mode." You can also download the HamStudy app. Craig Buck's "All Ham No Spam" book series is another good option. Focus on passing the test first — you actually learn Ham radio by getting on the air after you're licensed.

How much does a Ham license cost?

Expect to pay about $10-15 for the exam and $35 to the FCC for your license if you pass. The license is good for 10 years.

Where do I take the Ham test?

You can schedule an online exam at the ARRL website for pretty much any day and time you like. Many people have had good experiences testing with the Greater LA Radio Group (GLAARG).

How much range will I actually get?

Your radio will have much less range than advertised — basically line of sight. For GMRS, this might translate to 1-5 miles. You'll get the longest range from a high point ("Height is might!") with no obstructions, and shortest when the path is blocked by metal or earth. In dense urban areas, that may be a few blocks or less.

Should I upgrade my antenna?

Yes! The antenna is the single piece of equipment that makes the biggest difference for range. The stock "rubber duck" antenna that comes with your radio is not great. Look online for recommendations — some are elastic and can be twisted in a circle to save space, some are simply longer. Check the antenna connector on your radio to make sure you buy one that's compatible.

What features should I look for in a radio for emergencies?

Look for: ruggedness, ease of use, water resistance, ability to charge via USB-C, and availability and price of extra batteries.

What's the difference between handheld, mobile, and base station radios?

Handheld (HT) radios are portable walkie-talkie style units. Mobile radios are designed to go in your car or boat, look like car stereos, and can transmit at higher power (up to 50 watts) using external antennas. Base stations are installed more or less permanently in your home and can have even larger antennas for greater range.

What is a repeater?

A repeater is a radio that receives transmissions on one frequency and automatically retransmits them on another. They're usually installed on top of buildings or mountains and can extend your range from a few miles to tens, or even hundreds, of miles. Both Ham and GMRS repeaters exist. You can find repeaters at RepeaterBook.com.

What is a net?

A net is an on-air radio meeting. Most repeaters have weekly or monthly nets where anyone with a license can participate. These are invaluable opportunities for real-world experience transmitting and receiving with your radio. A directed net is a highly structured, formal net where a single person (Net Control) manages all communications.

What is radio etiquette?

Radio etiquette is a set of practices that help people communicate effectively by radio. Key points include: listen before transmitting, hold the PTT button for 1 second before speaking, keep transmissions short, say "over" when you're done talking, and say "clear" when you're leaving the channel. See our GMRS 101 page for a full guide.

What are privacy tones?

Privacy tones (also called CTCSS or PL tones) reduce background chatter by filtering out transmissions that don't have the matching tone. But don't mistake privacy tones for encryption! Anyone on the same frequency can still listen to everything you transmit. There is no privacy on radio.

Can I be tracked when transmitting?

Yes. With a little work, the location you're transmitting from can be tracked down.

Is my information public when I get a license?

Yes. Your legal name and address are visible online via your callsign. Consider using a PO Box or community center address on your FCC application, which is legal as long as you can receive mail there.

Can I use encryption on radio?

No. Encryption, including speaking in code, is forbidden on both GMRS and Ham radio because it may hide criminal activity. During disasters, it can also obscure information about what's happening. Anyone on the same frequency can listen to everything you transmit. For sensitive information, switch to Signal or another encrypted messaging app.

Can I get a license if I have a felony conviction?

Yes, but you must explain your conviction on your license application. Historically, about 80% of people who explain their conviction get their license.

70 cm

A UHF Ham band (420-450 MHz). Common for local voice communication.

1.25 Meter

A UHF band that's the least used of the UHF/VHF bands. Less crowded if you want some peace and quiet.

2 Meter

A VHF Ham band (144-148 MHz). Common for local voice communication.

6 Meter

Known as the "magic band." Digital comms can sometimes travel hundreds or even thousands of miles under the right conditions.

10 Meter

The shortest wavelength HF band that supports atmospheric propagation. A good entry point into HF.

12 Meter & 17 Meter

Contest-free bands, meaning they're more open and better for longer, relaxed conversations.

20 Meter

Very active and best for long-distance (intercontinental) communications. A favorite for DX'ing.

30 Meter

Closed to contests and phone operation, making it great for long-distance digital comms.

40, 60 & 80 Meter

Best for NVIS (Near-Vertical Incidence Skywave), a technique for medium-range HF communication without repeaters.

160 Meter

Known as the "gentleman's band," as it takes skill to set up due to the antenna size, and is extremely self-policing.