Using Repeaters

A repeater is a radio station, usually on a hilltop, tower, or tall building, that receives your signal on one frequency and simultaneously retransmits it on another. This extends your effective range from a few miles to potentially 50+ miles.

How repeaters work

• Your radio transmits on the input frequency (e.g., 467.6500 MHz for channel 19R)
• The repeater receives your signal and rebroadcasts it on the output frequency (e.g., 462.6500 MHz for channel 19)
• Other radios listen on the output frequency and hear you loud and clear
• The standard GMRS repeater offset is +5 MHz

CTCSS and DCS tones

Most repeaters require a CTCSS tone (a sub-audible tone your radio transmits) or DCS code (a digital code) to activate them. This prevents random signals from triggering the repeater. You'll need to program the correct tone into your radio. Check the repeater listing for the required tone.

Use our CTCSS/DCS cross-reference tool to translate tone codes between different radio brands.

Finding repeaters near you

The best resource for finding GMRS repeaters is myGMRS.com, which maintains a nationwide directory of GMRS repeaters with frequencies, tones, and coverage maps. Many repeaters are open to all licensed GMRS users.