What Is PMR446?

PMR446 explained

PMR446 is a licence-free radio service in the 446 MHz UHF band, available across the UK and European Union. It allows businesses and individuals to use short-range two-way radios without requiring an Ofcom licence — making it the simplest entry point to professional radio communications.

PMR446 frequency and power

PMR446 radios operate on 8 channels (analogue) in the 446.0–446.1 MHz range, with a maximum transmit power of 500 milliwatts ERP. Aerials must be fixed (non-removable) and integrated into the radio body. These restrictions are what justify the licence-free status under Ofcom and EU regulations.

What PMR446 is suitable for

PMR446 works well for short-range communications in relatively open environments — retail, hospitality, events, small construction sites and similar applications where teams operate within a few hundred metres of each other. Typical range is 0.5–2 km in open ground, considerably less in buildings or complex terrain.

PMR446 limitations

Because PMR446 is shared spectrum open to anyone, there is no channel exclusivity — other PMR446 users in the vicinity operate on the same channels. Power and aerial restrictions limit range. For any application requiring reliable communications over distance, multi-site coverage, or channel security, a licensed radio system is the appropriate choice.

Get advice on whether PMR446 is right for your operation