Posted by Baofeng on 2nd Nov 2025
UK Ham Radio Licences, Bands & Gear: Your Guide from Foundation to First Contact
UK Ham Radio Licence Guide (2026 Edition)
So, you're ready to explore amateur radio in the UK? It’s a fantastic hobby, but it's natural to have questions. What licence do you need? Is the equipment expensive? How do you actually get started?
At Baofeng Radio UK, we believe getting on the air should be accessible to everyone.
That's why we created this guide. We’ll break down the Ofcom Foundation licence process into simple steps and help you choose the right gear for your budget, so you can confidently make your first contact.
How Do I Get a Ham Radio Licence in the UK?
To transmit on amateur radio frequencies in the UK, you need a licence from the regulator, Ofcom. This is a legal requirement to ensure you know the basic rules of the airwaves. The great news is the entry-level licence is designed specifically for beginners.
The path is a simple 3-step ladder, and your journey starts at the bottom rung.
| Licence Level | Your Callsign | Max Power | Perfect For... | The Exam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | M7xxx | 25 Watts | Absolute beginners. Gets you on the most popular bands with enough power for handhelds and small home stations. You can also build your own kits! | A simple multiple-choice test on basic rules and safety. |
| Intermediate | 2E0xxx | 100 Watts | The hobbyist wanting more power, technical freedom, and international range. | A more technical multiple-choice exam. |
| Full | M0xxx | 1000 Watts | The expert who wants access to everything, including high-power contest stations and global roaming. | The most challenging exam, proving deep knowledge. |
Your goal is the Foundation Licence. The current 25-watt power limit is excellent for beginners—it is more than enough to chat around your county or even further with the right antenna. All our Baofeng handheld radios are ideal for use with this licence.
How to Get a UK Ham Radio Licence (Step-by-Step)
Getting your licence is a straightforward process managed by the RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) on behalf of Ofcom. Here’s exactly what you need to do:
- Study for the Foundation Exam. The RSGB provides an excellent book, "The Foundation Licence Manual," and many local radio clubs offer brilliant hands-on training courses. These resources cover all the basic theory, electronics, and rules you need to pass.
- Book Your Foundation Exam. Most exams are now taken online from home with a remote invigilator. You can book your remote exam directly through the RSGB exam booking portal.
- Pass the Multiple-Choice Exam. The exam consists of 26 questions, and you need just 19 correct to pass. It covers basic licence conditions, safety, and operating practices.
- Apply for Your Ofcom Licence & Call Sign. Once you pass, the RSGB will notify you. You then create an account on the Ofcom licensing portal, register your exam pass, and claim your licence. It’s completely free! You'll be issued a unique call sign (e.g., M7XXX).
- Get on the Air! With your licence and radio in hand, you're ready to make your first contact on the popular UK 2m and 70cm bands.
What is the Best Beginner Ham Radio for the UK?
Your first radio is an exciting purchase. The fundamental choice is between a simple, licence-free radio for casual use, or a more capable amateur radio for your new hobby.
The Licence-Free Path: For Simple Group Communication
If you just want a "walkie-talkie" for family hikes, coordinating at events, or on a worksite, you need a PMR446 radio. These are legal for anyone to use out of the box, with no licence required.
- Our recommendation is the Baofeng BF-888S PMR446. These come in a pair and are the definition of simple, rugged, and effective short-range communication.
The Licensed Path: Your Gateway to the Ham Radio Hobby
With your Foundation licence, you can use a programmable amateur radio. These give you access to the most popular beginner bands: 2 Metres (VHF) and 70 Centimetres (UHF). This is where you'll chat with other hams locally and via repeaters.
3. Baofeng BF-888S PMR446 – License-Free Radio
💡 Best for Small-Scale Events & Corporate Security
✅ License-free
✅ Lightweight & discreet – Ideal for indoor security teams
✅ VOX hands-free option
✅Cost-Effective
✅ Easy to Operate
🔹 Why It's Great: A budget-friendly, legal solution for corporate events, exhibitions, and conferences.
For new Foundation licensees, we recommend two outstanding models.
1. The Classic Starter: Baofeng UV-5R Mini
The Baofeng UV-5R Mini is a global phenomenon. It packs incredible dual-band capability into a compact and unbelievably affordable package. It is, without a doubt, the most popular and cost-effective way to get on the air.
Best for: The budget-conscious beginner who wants a proven, no-fuss radio to make their first contacts.
2. The Future-Proof Adventurer: Baofeng UV-5RH Pro GPS
The Baofeng UV-5RH Pro GPS is a modern powerhouse. It features a more robust design, higher power output (for when you upgrade your licence), and a built-in GPS. The GPS is fantastic for outdoor enthusiasts who want to participate in activities like SOTA (Summits on the Air) or use digital modes like APRS.
Best for: The enthusiast who wants more features from day one and a radio that will grow with them through their ham radio journey.
1. Baofeng UV-5R Mini Walkie Talkie
💡 Best for New Operators & First-Time Buyers
✅ Ultra-compact and lightweight design, easy to carry anywhere.
✅ Dual-band display to monitor two frequencies at once.
✅ Access both 2m (VHF) and 70cm (UHF) amateur bands.
✅ Unbeatable value for money, the perfect first radio investment.
✅ Fully programmable with CHIRP for easy channel management.
✅ Includes desktop charging cradle for convenient recharging.
✅ Built-in FM radio receiver and LED flashlight for extra utility.
🔹 Why It's Great: This radio is the global standard for a reason. It delivers all the core features a new Foundation licensee needs in a compact and incredibly affordable package, making it the easiest way to get on the air.
1. Baofeng UV-5RH Pro GPS Walkie Talkie
💡 Best for Outdoor Adventurers & Modern Hams
✅ Built-in GPS for location tracking and digital modes (APRS).
✅ Higher power output for superior range and performance.
✅ Modern USB Type-C charging for on-the-go convenience.
✅ Robust, weather-resistant build for outdoor adventures.
✅ Multi-band VHF/UHF to connect on all popular local bands.
✅ Bright, easy-to-read colour display.
✅ One-touch frequency copy to quickly clone another radio's channel.
🔹 Why It's Great: It combines modern features like GPS and USB-C with a rugged build, making it the perfect, future-proof radio for today's active ham operator.
Essential Accessories to Complete Your Setup
To get the most out of your new radio, a few key accessories are a must.
- Programming Cable: The #1 essential for easily programming your radio from a PC.
➡️ Buy the genuine Baofeng programming cable - Upgraded Antenna: A longer whip antenna can significantly boost your transmitting and receiving range.
➡️ Browse our performance antennas collection. - Speaker Mic: Keep your radio on your belt and talk clearly without having to unclip it.
➡️ Browse our Speaker Mic collection - Spare Battery: For those long days out in the field or extended chats.
Programming Your Baofeng with CPS / CHIRP in the UK
The easiest way to program your Baofeng in the UK is with a PC and free software.
Software: Use the universally recommended free software, offiical CPS / CHIRP. It’s a simple spreadsheet-style interface.
Cable: You will need a genuine programming cable to connect your radio to your computer's USB port.
What are UK Repeaters and How to Find Them?
A repeater is essentially a powerful, shared radio station located on a hill or tall building. It listens for your low-power handheld signal and re-broadcasts it over a much wider area.
Using a repeater can turn a 5-mile range into a 50-mile range, connecting you to a huge community.
How to Find Them: The best resource is the online UK Repeater Map. Simply find your location on the map, click on nearby repeaters, and you'll get the frequencies and information you need to program into your radio.
UK Repeater Directory – The main directory for all UK repeaters.
Frequently Asked Questions (UK Ham Radio & Baofeng)
Q: Can I use a Baofeng UV-5R without a licence?
A: You can own and listen to a Baofeng UV-5R without a licence. However, it is illegal to transmit on amateur frequencies without a valid Ofcom licence. If you need walkie-talkies for licence-free transmitting (e.g., for work or hiking), you must buy a PMR446 compliant radio, such as the Baofeng BF-888S (PMR version).
Q: How much power can I use with a Foundation Licence?
A: Under the current UK regulations, a Foundation Licence holder can transmit up to 25 Watts. This is a significant increase from the old 10-watt limit (pre-2024), giving beginners much better range. Note: You must still comply with Ofcom's EMF safety rules.
Q: Is the UK Ham Radio exam hard?
A: No, the Foundation exam is designed for beginners. It is a multiple-choice test with 26 questions, and you only need 19 correct answers to pass. Most people can pass after a weekend of study or a short club course.
Q: What is the range of a Baofeng radio in the UK?
A: Range depends on terrain, not just power. With a handheld radio (5W) on flat ground, expect 1–3 miles. If you are on a hill or using a repeater, you can reach 20–50 miles. With a Foundation licence and a basic home antenna, you can communicate much further.
Q: What is the real total cost to get started in 2026?
A: A: It is very affordable. The online exam fee is typically around £40. A reliable Baofeng starter radio costs between £25 and £40. This means you can get fully licensed and on the air for under £100.
Q: How do UK call signs work now?
A: Your call sign indicates your licence level.
- Foundation: Starts with M7 (e.g., M7ABC).
- Intermediate: Starts with 2E0.
- Full: Starts with M0.
- Note: As of 2024, using Regional Secondary Locators (like 'M' for Scotland in MM7) is now optional.
Q: Can I use UK repeaters with a Foundation licence?
A: Absolutely. The Foundation licence fully entitles you to use analog and digital (DMR) repeaters. This allows you to talk across the country using just a handheld Baofeng radio.
Q: What software should I use to program my Baofeng?
A: We recommend CHIRP. It is free, open-source software that supports almost all Baofeng models (including the UV-5R and UV-5RH series). You will need a K-Type programming cable to connect the radio to your PC.
From Curious to Confident
Getting into UK ham radio has never been more accessible. With a simple entry-level exam and a high-quality, affordable radio from Baofeng, the biggest barrier is simply taking that first step.
You have the guide, you know the path, and the tools are right at your fingertips. Don't wait to discover what's waiting for you on the airwaves. Take the plunge and join a hobby that will reward you for a lifetime.
We'll hear you out there!
