FCC requires license for GMRS radios?

[twinmill28]

I've never paid attention to communication devices, just never got interested. But I recently got my hands on a HUMMER adventure kit with what I thought were just walkie talkies in it and the instructions stated that to operate the radios legally, I'd need a GMRS license.
I thought what the hell, it would give me something to brag about, I've got an FCC license to use my walkie talkies. So I signed up for a login and FRN on the FCC website thinking I'd get a free or low buck license, maybe have to read some stuff to earn it. They want $85 for the license, and it expires in 5 years!
Am I smoking crack, or did I actually read that right on the website? $85 to play walkie talkies with my kids for 5 years? We used my buddies radios in Utah without a license and I never realized one was needed.
Now that the FCC has my phone #, email address and house address, I'll be an easy target to nail with a hefty fine once I take these things out and do my first "test" transmit because I was too cheap to pay their fine.
WTH???

 

[JGBB04]

If it's a combo GMRS/FRS you can use the FRS channels w/ out a license

 

[twinmill28]

Yeah, I read that too. But somewhere on the forums I'd read about somebody who actually had the FCC knocking on their door because they were transmitting more power than they legally should have. I know this isn't as dramatic, but it's kinda scary to know people are paid to drive around and find out who's transmitting.

 

[Trekker]

I imagine the door knocking would mostly apply if you were operating a repeater. Being able to use repeaters is a cool feature of GMRS:

http://www.mygmrs.com/browse

 

[abearden]

Yes, you're supposed to. Honestly, I see GMRS licenses going the way of the CB in the no-too-distant future given of the dozens of people I know that use them I don't know a single person that has a license.

 

[5gn-h3t]

AFAIK, You can transmit up to 500mW on FRS without a license.

 

[LagunaH1]

Correct, the GMRS license is only required if you transmit Ina GMRS channel AND use the higher power level of GMRS. If you stick to the half watt of FRS then you don't need a license