RACES — Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service
RACES — the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service — is a formal government communications programme in which licensed amateur radio operators are registered with a civil defence or emergency management agency and activated to provide communications support during an officially declared emergency. Unlike ARES, which operates independently as an ARRL voluntary programme, RACES operates within the government emergency management structure and can only be formally activated by an authorised government official.
What makes RACES different
RACES is established in FCC Part 97.407 as a distinct operating mode. RACES stations may only communicate with other RACES stations, certain government stations, and stations specifically authorised to communicate with RACES during an activation. RACES is activated only when a state of emergency has been formally declared — it cannot be used for routine public service events. In practice, RACES is most relevant during major disasters where government agencies need a formalised radio communications capability under their direct authority.
How ARES and RACES coexist
The vast majority of day-to-day EmComm activity is handled through ARES. RACES becomes relevant specifically when a government declaration triggers the need for its formal structure. Many experienced EmComm operators hold dual registration in both so they can operate under whichever framework applies. In areas with an active RACES programme, the local organisation is typically co-located with the ARES group — the same operators, same equipment, often the same frequencies, but different legal framework.
| Factor | ARES | RACES |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsoring body | ARRL (voluntary) | Federal/state/local government |
| Activation authority | EC or served agency request | Authorised government official only |
| Activation scope | Any emergency, public service, exercise | Formally declared emergencies only |
| Registration | Local ARES group via ARRL | Civil defence or emergency management agency |
| FCC basis | General amateur provisions | Part 97.407 — RACES specific |
| Communication limits | Standard amateur rules apply | Limited to RACES and authorised stations during activation |
Can RACES operate on all amateur frequencies?
Yes — RACES stations can operate on any frequency authorised by the control operator's licence class. There are no special RACES-only frequencies, though local emergency plans may designate specific channels.
Is RACES still relevant today?
RACES remains a valid framework under FCC Part 97. Its relevance depends on your jurisdiction. In areas with active civil defence organisations it provides a formal government-backed capability. Where it is dormant, ARES MOUs with local government agencies serve a similar practical function.
Do RACES operators get paid?
No — RACES is a volunteer programme just like ARES. RACES operators are not government employees and receive no compensation.
How do I register with RACES?
Contact your county emergency manager or civil defence director. Registration is not through the ARRL — it goes through your local government emergency management agency.