Welcome to the most comprehensive guide to ham radio frequencies and amateur radio frequency allocations available on the web. Whether you're a newly licensed Technician or an experienced Extra class operator, understanding the complex world of amateur radio bands is essential for effective communication and regulatory compliance. This complete reference covers everything from basic frequency concepts to advanced propagation characteristics across all amateur radio bands.
Ham radio frequencies form the foundation of amateur radio communication, spanning from the low frequency (LF) bands at 135 kHz all the way up to microwave frequencies above 300 GHz. At all times, transmitter power must be the minimum necessary to carry out the desired communications. Unless otherwise noted, the maximum power output is 1500 watts PEP. Understanding these frequency allocations and band plans is crucial for legal operation and effective communication in the amateur radio service.
Understanding Amateur Radio Frequency Bands
What are ham radio frequencies
Ham radio frequencies are specific portions of the radio spectrum allocated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for use by licensed amateur radio operators. Amateur radio frequency allocation is done by national telecommunication authorities. Globally, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) oversees how much radio spectrum is set aside for amateur radio transmissions. Individual amateur stations are free to use any frequency within authorized frequency ranges; authorized bands may vary by the class of the station license.
These amateur radio frequency allocations differ significantly from commercial broadcasting frequencies. While commercial stations are assigned specific channels, amateur operators have the flexibility to use any frequency within their allocated bands, subject to license class restrictions and band plan guidelines. This flexibility enables diverse communication modes including voice (phone), continuous wave (CW), digital modes, and image transmission.
Radio amateurs use a variety of transmission modes, including Morse code, radioteletype, data, and voice. Specific frequency allocations vary from country to country and between ITU regions as specified in the current ITU HF frequency allocations for amateur radio. The amateur service encompasses both terrestrial and satellite communications, with separate frequency allocations for each type of operation.
FCC frequency allocations for amateur radio
The FCC administers amateur radio frequency allocations in the United States through Part 97 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The Federal Table is administered by NTIA and the non-Federal Table is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These allocations are regularly updated to reflect changes from World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC) and domestic policy decisions.
Recent changes to amateur frequency allocations have been significant. This final rule is effective February 13, 2026. Most notably, The new 60-meter frequencies approved by the FCC in December will become available to amateurs as of February 13, 2026, along with new power restrictions on those frequencies. As of February 13, FCC-licensed amateur operators holding General Class or higher licenses may operate on a secondary basis anywhere between 5351.5 and 5366.5 kHz, subject to a maximum bandwidth of 2.8 kHz and maximum transmit power of 9.15 watts ERP (effective radiated power).
The FCC frequency allocation process involves coordination with other spectrum users, particularly government agencies. In the United States, radio spectrum may be allocated to either Federal or non-Federal use exclusively, or for shared use. In the case of shared use, the type of service(s) permitted need not be the same (e.g., Federal FIXED, non-Federal MOBILE).
Primary vs secondary frequency allocations
Understanding primary versus secondary frequency allocations is crucial for amateur radio operators. Primary allocations give the service priority protection from interference, while secondary allocations must not cause harmful interference to primary services and must accept any interference from them.
Most amateur radio bands operate on a primary basis, meaning amateur operators have equal rights with other primary services. However, some amateur allocations are secondary. Amateur operations must not cause interference to, and must accept interference from, primary services in this and adjacent bands. For example, the 219-220 MHz allocation is secondary, and Amateur stations are limited to 50 W PEP output and 100 kHz bandwidth. Automated Maritime Telecommunications Systems (AMTS) stations are the primary occupants in this band. Amateur stations within 398 miles of an AMTS station must notify the station in writing at least 30 days prior to beginning operations. Amateur stations within 50 miles of an AMTS station must get permission in writing from the AMTS station before beginning operations.
Band plan basics and organization
The list of frequency ranges is called a band allocation, which may be set by international agreements, and national regulations. The modes and types of allocations within each frequency band is called a bandplan; it may be determined by regulation, but most typically is set by agreements between amateur radio operators.
Central to its practice are the band plans, which are essential for orderly and efficient use of radio frequency spectrum. These plans vary depending on the license level of the operator, with each level granting access to different frequency bands. Understanding these band plans is crucial for all amateur radio enthusiasts, as it ensures compliance with regulations and promotes effective communication.
Band plans serve multiple purposes: they organize different operating modes within each band, designate calling frequencies, establish contest and DX windows, allocate emergency frequencies, and coordinate repeater operations. Amateur radio band plans are essential guides for operators, defining where different modes and activities can be found across the HF, VHF, and UHF spectrum. Amateur radio band plans are essential guides for operators, defining where different modes and activities can be found across the HF, VHF, and UHF spectrum. These plans help ensure efficient use of the bands and minimize interference between various types of amateur radio activity, from voice QSOs to digital modes and satellite operation. Following band plans is a key part of being a considerate operator, allowing hams worldwide to share frequencies effectively.
HF Amateur Radio Bands (3-30 MHz)
The HF amateur radio bands represent the heart of long-distance communication in amateur radio. 3 MHz to 30 MHz - Long-distance communication through sky wave propagation. The traditional shortwave amateur radio bands for worldwide (DX) contacts. These bands utilize ionospheric propagation to enable communication over thousands of miles with relatively modest power levels.
160 meter band (1.8-2.0 MHz)
160 metres – 1 800–2 000 kHz (1.800–2.000 MHz) Just above the commercial AM broadcast band. Allocations in this band vary widely from country to country; it was formerly shared with the largely defunct Loran-A radionavigation system. This band is often taken up as a technical challenge, since long distance (DX) propagation tends to be more difficult due to higher D layer ionospheric absorption. Long-distance propagation tends to occur only at night, and the band can be notoriously noisy particularly in the summer months.
Notes: Often called the 'Top Band'. Very noisy in summer. Excellent DX in winter nights. The 160-meter band requires large antennas due to the long wavelength, making it challenging for operators with limited space. Propagation: Ground wave and night sky wave. Excellent for regional and continental contacts at night. Requires large antennas.
80/75 meter band (3.5-4.0 MHz)
The 80/75 meter band offers reliable regional and continental communication, particularly during nighttime hours. Works best in winter, due to atmospheric noise from hemispheric thunder storms during summer. Only countries in the Americas and few others have access to all of this band; in other parts of the world amateurs are limited to the bottom 300 kHz (or less) (85.65–83.28 m). In the US and Canada the portion of the band from 3.600–4.000 MHz, regulation permits use of single-sideband voice as well as AM voice; this sub-band is often referred to as "the 75 metre band", in part to distinguish it from the internationally available frequencies below it.
Propagation: Primarily night sky wave. Reliable for regional (500-1000 mi) contacts. Good for NVIS during day. The band is divided into different segments for CW, phone, and digital operations, with specific allocations varying by license class.
60 meter band (5.3-5.4 MHz)
The 60-meter band represents one of the newest additions to the amateur radio spectrum, with significant recent changes. A relatively new allocation and originally only available in a small number of countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland, but now continuing to expand. In most (but not all) countries, the allocation is broken into channels and may require a special licensing request.
Recent FCC rule changes have expanded 60-meter access. Here's the confusing part: The existing 60-meter channels centered on 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz remain as secondary amateur allocations with maximum power of 100 watts ERP. However, the old channel at 5358.5 kHz is eliminated as it is now part of the new 5351.5-5366.5 kHz subband and subject to the lower power limit. For all 60-meter transmissions, emission bandwidth is limited to 2.8 kHz or less and amateurs must not cause harmful interference to, and must accept interference from, stations authorized by the United States (NTIA and FCC) and other nations in the fixed service; and all other nations in the mobile service (except aeronautical mobile).
40 meter band (7.0-7.3 MHz)
The 40-meter band provides excellent regional and continental coverage with reliable propagation characteristics. It's particularly effective for nighttime communication across North America and between continents during favorable conditions. The band supports all emission types and is popular for both ragchewing and DXing.
ITU region differences affect 40-meter operations. Novice and Technician licensees outside ITU Region 2 may use CW only between 7.025 and 7.075 MHz and between 7.100 and 7.125 MHz. 7.200 to 7.300 MHz is not available outside ITU Region 2. These variations require careful attention when operating mobile or portable in different regions.
30 meter band (10.1-10.15 MHz)
The 30-meter band is a narrow but highly efficient band for DX communications. It's exclusively allocated for CW and digital modes, making it a favorite for operators interested in these modes. The 30-meter band is known for its excellent long-distance capabilities, particularly for digital and CW communications. Its limited bandwidth and mode restrictions help maintain a low noise level, making it ideal for weak-signal work.
20 meter band (14.0-14.35 MHz)
The 20-meter band is one of the most popular bands in amateur radio, especially for long-distance (DX) communications. It offers excellent daytime and evening propagation characteristics and is a favorite for worldwide communication. The 20-meter band is highly versatile, supporting a wide range of activities from casual chatting to contesting and emergency communications. Its global reach makes it a prime band for fostering international friendships and cultural exchange.
The 20-meter band often provides reliable daytime propagation paths around the world, making it ideal for international communication during business hours. During periods of high solar activity, the band remains open well into the evening hours, extending communication opportunities.
17 meter band (18.068-18.168 MHz)
The 17-meter band fills the gap between 20 and 15 meters, often providing communication opportunities when the higher bands are closed and the lower bands are too noisy or crowded. This WARC band (World Administrative Radio Conference) is not available for contest operation, making it ideal for casual QSOs and ragchewing.
15 meter band (21.0-21.45 MHz)
The 15-meter band responds dramatically to solar cycle variations. During solar maximum periods, it provides exceptional worldwide propagation with modest power levels. The 12-meter band, while narrower than many other HF bands, is known for its excellent long-distance capabilities during periods of high solar activity. It's a band that can offer surprising DX contacts. General license holders can enjoy the 12-meter band's unique propagation characteristics, which can lead to unexpected and exciting communication opportunities, especially during solar peaks.
12 meter band (24.89-24.99 MHz)
The 12-meter band, another WARC band, offers unique propagation characteristics that can surprise operators. During periods of enhanced solar activity, it can provide excellent long-haul communication paths. Like other WARC bands, it's excluded from contest operation, preserving it for casual communication.
10 meter band (28.0-29.7 MHz)
The 10-meter band is one of the most versatile and exciting bands available to General license holders. It offers a wide range of operating modes and is known for its dramatic propagation changes, making it a favorite for both local and long-distance communications. The 10-meter band is particularly interesting due to its responsiveness to solar activity, which can dramatically affect its propagation characteristics. During solar maximums, this band can support worldwide communication, while during solar minimums, it's more suited to regional communications.
This is the highest of the HF bands - or is it the lowest of the VHF bands? It has properties of both that make it unique: During band openings, it seems as though one may communicate almost anywhere in the world with even the lowest transmitter power. When the band is closed, however, it is strictly a "local" band.
VHF and UHF Amateur Bands
Frequencies between 30 and 300 MHz are referred to as Very High Frequency (VHF) region and those between 300 MHz and 3 GHz are referred to as Ultra High Frequency (UHF). Frequencies between 30 and 300 MHz are referred to as Very High Frequency (VHF) region and those between 300 MHz and
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