CB Laws in the US

The Citizens Band (CB) radio in the United States is governed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), while the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) provides the legal framework for CB radio operations.

 

The FCC Website provides a summary of the FCC rules for the Mobility Division under C.B.R.S.. The FCC also provides a Consumer Guide on how to use and communicate properly with CB equipment. However, for a complete list of regulations, check out the CFR Website under Title 47 - Subchapter D - Part 95.

 
 
 CFR Title 47 Part 95
 
 
 FCC CBRS
 
 
  FCC Consumer Guide
 
 
Disclaimer: The information provided below is for informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy, the company cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions, or any outcomes related to the use of this information. For the most current and detailed regulations, please refer to the official Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines and documentation.
 

  • No License Required:

Unlike other radio services, CB radio does not require a license or registration.

 
  • Eligibility:

Anyone can use CB radios in the United States as long as they comply with the FCC rules.

 
  • Channels:

CB radios operate on 40 channels within the 27 MHz band (26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz).

 
  • Power Limits:

The maximum allowable power output is 4 watts MCP (Mean Carrier Power) for AM (Amplitude Modulation) and FM (Frequency Modulation). When transmitting single sideband (SSB) voice signals, the PEP (Peak Envelope Power) must not exceed 12 Watts.

 
  • Technical Standards:

CB radios must meet specific technical standards set by the FCC, must be FCC-certified and labeled as such by the manufacturer.

  • Types of Communications:

Personal, business or voluntary public service activities, including communications to provide assistance to highway travelers. However, communications should be kept short (5 min or less) and should not interfere with other communications.

 
  • Prohibited Communications:

Users cannot advertise or solicit the sale of any goods or services; cannot advertise a political candidate or political campaign; cannot transmit music, whistling, sound effects or any other audio material to amuse or entertain; cannot transmit any sound effects solely to attract attention. Communications should also be free of profane, obscene, or indecent language.

 
  • Emergency Communications:

Operators of CB radios and stations must, at all times and on all channels, give priority to emergency communications. Channel 9 must be used only for emergency communications or traveler assistance. It must not be used for any other purpose.

 
  • Call Signs:

Unlike amateur (ham) radio operators, call signs are not required when using CB (Citizens Band) radio in the United States. Users can communicate freely without the need for formal identification. However, CB radio users often adopt handles or nicknames for informal identification. Amateur (ham) radio operators must however use specific call signs assigned by the FCC.

  • Radio Modifications:

It is illegal to modify a CB radio to increase its power output or to operate outside the allocated legal CB radio frequencies.

 
  • Antennas Restrictions:

There are no restrictions regarding the antenna height for mobile CB radios. However, for base stations, the CBRS (Citizens Band Radio Service) operator must ensure that the transmitting antenna for the station is not higher than 18.3 meters (60 feet) above the ground, or 6.1 meters (20 feet) higher than the highest point of the building or tree on which it is mounted, whichever is higher. CBRS station antennas must also meet other requirements.

Visit the CFR and FCC Websites for more information.

  • Penalties:

Violations of CB radio regulations can result in fines, equipment seizure, or other enforcement actions taken by the FCC.

Check out the FCC and CFR Websites for more information.