Do PMR446 licence-free walkie-talkies use the same frequencies as Amateur (Ham) radio?
No, they use separate frequencies, though they are close neighbours on the radio spectrum. • PMR446 Radios: Operate on a specific, strictly regulated, licence-free band from 446.0 to 446.2 MHz.• Amateur (Ham) Radios: Licensed operators use the 70cm band, which in the UK runs from 430.0 to 440.0 MHz. Because these blocks of airspace are entirely distinct, an Amateur radio cannot legally transmit on PMR446 frequencies, and a PMR446 walkie-talkie cannot transmit on Ham frequencies. Where does the confusion come from?
The overlap confusion usually happens for two reasons: • Some advanced, licenced Amateur radio transceivers have wideband receivers that can listen to PMR446 traffic, even though they cannot legally transmit on it.
• Cheap, unapproved radios bought online from overseas often combine or program these frequencies incorrectly, which is illegal and causes interference. In short, the bands are legally separated to ensure that casual everyday users and licensed hobbyists can operate smoothly without interfering with one another. 03/08/2026