VHF & UHF Amateur Radio Band Allocation Charts
Amateur radio band allocation charts provide a clear, visual reference showing which frequency ranges are authorized for
Technician, General, and Amateur Extra license holders. Understanding band allocations is essential for
legal operation, proper equipment selection, and effective station planning. This page focuses on the most commonly used
VHF and UHF amateur bands, where the majority of local, regional, and repeater communication takes place.
These charts are designed as quick-reference tools for operators at every experience level, from newly licensed
Technicians to advanced operators managing complex stations.
What Are Amateur Radio Band Allocations?
Band allocations define how portions of the radio frequency spectrum are assigned to the amateur radio service by the FCC.
Within each band, specific frequency segments are designated for different operating modes and license classes.
Band charts help operators quickly determine where they may legally transmit and which modes are permitted.
Operating outside of authorized frequency segments can cause interference and violate FCC regulations, making band
allocation charts a critical reference in every radio shack.
VHF Amateur Radio Bands
The Very High Frequency (VHF) bands are widely used for local and regional communication. VHF signals
generally travel line-of-sight and are well suited for repeater systems, mobile operation, emergency communications,
and public service events.
- 6 Meters (50–54 MHz) – Known as the “magic band,” supporting local and occasional long-distance contacts
- 2 Meters (144–148 MHz) – The most popular VHF band for FM repeaters and simplex operation
- 1.25 Meters (222–225 MHz) – Used for local communication and specialized repeater systems
Most Technician Class operators spend the majority of their operating time on VHF bands due to equipment availability
and strong local coverage.
UHF Amateur Radio Bands
The Ultra High Frequency (UHF) bands provide reliable communication in urban and suburban environments
where buildings, terrain, and obstacles are common. UHF signals are well suited for handheld radios, short-range links,
and digital systems.
- 70 Centimeters (420–450 MHz) – A primary UHF band for repeaters, simplex, and digital operation
- Higher UHF and microwave bands – Used for experimentation, weak-signal work, and satellite communication
License Class Privileges on VHF & UHF
All three FCC amateur radio license classes — Technician, General, and Amateur Extra — have broad privileges on
VHF and UHF bands. In practice, this means:
- Technician Class operators have full privileges on VHF and UHF
- General and Amateur Extra operators retain all VHF/UHF privileges
- Most VHF/UHF operation is open to all license classes
Because of these shared privileges, VHF and UHF bands are often where new operators gain experience and develop
operating skills.
Using Band Allocation Charts Effectively
Band charts are best used in combination with local repeater directories and equipment manuals. When reviewing a chart,
operators should:
- Verify the frequency range before transmitting
- Confirm permitted operating modes
- Check power limits and repeater offsets where applicable
- Understand regional band plans and coordination guidelines
Printable VHF & UHF Band Charts
Printable charts provide a convenient reference that can be kept near the operating position. These charts are useful
for quickly identifying authorized frequencies during setup, testing, or emergency operation.
→ Download VHF & UHF Amateur Radio Band Chart (PDF)
Related License & Operating Guides
Understanding band allocations works best when combined with license privilege information:
→ Technician Class Overview
→ General Class Privileges
→ Amateur Extra Class License
This VHF & UHF Band Allocation Charts page is part of the Elmer Reference Library and is intended to provide
clear, reliable guidance for legal and effective amateur radio operation.
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