Do You Need a Licence for a Two Way Radio? UK Ofcom Guide

It is the first question most buyers ask, and the answer decides which radio you should buy. Whether you need a licence in the UK comes down to one thing: the band the radio uses.

Licence-free: PMR446 walkie talkies

Only compliant PMR446 equipment used within the exemption conditions is licence-free; operating on that band alone is not enough. There is no Ofcom application and no fee, as long as the radio sticks to the rules: 0.5 watts maximum, a fixed antenna and PMR446 type approval. This covers most walkie talkies sold for shops, events and leisure.

Licensed: business two way radios

Professional radios that use dedicated business frequencies need an Ofcom Business Radio licence. The common choices are:

• Simple UK Light: handheld and mobile use anywhere in the UK on shared frequencies, no base station, 75 pounds for five years.
• Simple Site Light: base and mobile use on one small site, self-coordinated, 75 pounds for five years.
• Technically Assigned: Ofcom coordinates the frequency assignment and operating conditions, with the fee depending on the assignment. Do not assume exclusive or interference-free use.

What about PoC and marine radios?

PoC radios work over the 4G mobile network through a SIM, so they need no Ofcom radio licence, though subscriptions, SIM costs and renewal periods depend on the chosen service. Marine VHF is different again: a handheld needs an Ofcom Ship Portable Radio Licence and the user needs an RYA Short Range Certificate.

Which should you choose?

If you want simple, cheap and instant, go licence-free with a walkie talkie. If you need range, clear channels and a radio that scales, choose a licensed two way radio and confirm the licence and any application assistance before purchase. Tell us your site and team size and we will point you to the right licence before you spend a penny.

Is it illegal to use an unlicensed business radio?

Using licensed frequencies without an Ofcom licence is against the law and can cause interference for other users. It is inexpensive and quick to do properly, and we can sort it for you.

Buying for a specific sector? Our guides for schools, colleges and universities and holiday parks cover licensing as part of the kit list — and ask us to confirm any licensing assistance and charges in your quote.

Licensing reference: Ofcom business radio licence guidance. Fees and conditions checked 8 October 2026; confirm the current terms with Ofcom before transmitting.

Planning your equipment? Send your site details, quantities and existing radio models through our quote enquiry form. We can confirm the proposed setup, compatibility and availability before you decide.