Which Ofcom Radio Licence Do I Need for Two-Way Radios? (A Simple Guide)

The introduction of Ofcom licensing requirements for business radio use has shaped the regulatory framework for operating two-way radios in the UK.

Two-way radios are a reliable and cost-effective way to keep your teams connected, whether you’re working on a construction site, managing event security, running a warehouse, or coordinating staff across a school or business. But before you switch them on, there’s one important step: making sure you have the right Ofcom licence. Obtaining the correct Ofcom licence gives your business legal access to radio frequencies and ensures you remain compliant with UK law.

This guide explains why a licence is needed, the different types available, how to apply, and what happens if you don’t.

Do I need an Ofcom licence for my two-way radios?

In most cases, yes. If you’re using radios for your business, school, event, or organisation, you’ll need an Ofcom licence. This ensures your radios work legally, securely, and without interference from others, as an Ofcom licence is required in accordance with UK law and Ofcom regulations.

Some licence-free radios (PMR446) exist, but they are limited in power, range, and features. If you need reliable coverage for professional use, an Ofcom licence is almost always required.

Why is an Ofcom licence needed

An Ofcom business radio licence:

• Prevents interference – you’re assigned frequencies that reduce the risk of clashing with other users nearby.
• Keeps you compliant – using licensed radios where a licence is required is illegal and can result in fines.
• Improves reliability – licensed radios operate with higher power and coverage than licence-free models.
• Protects your organisation – you’ll have a record of your radio usage with Ofcom, making it easier to expand or modify your system in the future.

With an Ofcom licence, you are covered for the use of specific radio equipment, frequencies, and operational scenarios as defined by the licence terms.

In short: an Ofcom licence gives you clear, reliable, and legal communication. Proper licensing is also essential for the safety of staff and the public by ensuring secure and interference-free communication.

Which licence is right for me?

Ofcom offers four main types of business radio licences:

• Simple UK Light (£75 for 5 years)
  • Use: Handheld or vehicle radios anywhere in the UK.
  • Includes: All handheld and mobile radios, but excludes base stations.
  • Ideal for: Small businesses, schools, events, or teams working across multiple sites.
  • Note: No base stations allowed.
• Simple Site Light (£75 for 5 years)
  • Use: Base station and radios within about 1km.
  • Includes: Base station and associated handheld or mobile radios operating on-site.
  • Ideal for: Factories, warehouses, or offices needing on-site coverage.
• Technically Assigned (from £75 to £1,480 per channel)
  • Use: Custom licence tailored to your site and coverage area.
  • Includes: Specific frequencies assigned for your equipment and location.
  • Ideal for: Construction sites, shopping centres, large venues, or county-wide operations.
• Area Defined (from £3,300 to £9,900 depending on size/frequencies)
  • Use: Exclusive frequency rights over a set area (50 km², a region, or UK-wide).
  • Ideal for: Organisations needing large-scale or national coverage.

How to apply for an Ofcom licence

Applying is straightforward:

1. Decide which licence you need – if you’re unsure, DCRS can advise you.
2. Apply online through Ofcom’s Business Radio Licensing System – Light licences can be applied, paid for, and issued instantly.
3. Wait for approval – Technically Assigned and Area Defined licences require frequency coordination and can take between 42 and 60 days.
4. Keep your licence up to date – licences usually last for 5 years, but you’ll need to renew before they expire.

Tip: DCRS can handle the whole process for you, including applications, renewals, and any modifications.

How long does it take to get a licence?

• Light licences: Instant if you apply online. You will receive a reference number for your application, which can be used to track the status of your licence.
• Technically Assigned/Area Defined: Up to 60 days (excluding delays for payment or frequency checks).

What happens if you operate without an Ofcom licence?

Using two-way radios without the correct licence is a breach of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006. Possible consequences include:

• Fines – Ofcom can issue financial penalties for unlicensed use.
• Equipment seizure – radios may be confiscated if found operating illegally.
• Prosecution – in serious cases, unlicensed use can result in legal action.
• Disruption – without a licence, your radios may suffer interference from other users, leaving your communications unreliable.

Operating radios without the correct Ofcom licence is strictly prohibited under UK law. Operating without a licence isn’t worth the risk, especially when licences start from just £75 for 5 years.

Need help?

DCRS can manage your Ofcom licence for you, including applications, renewals, and modifications at no extra cost (other than Ofcom’s fees).

Call us on 0800 043 2688
Email sales@dcrs.co.uk
Or use our Contact Us form

Getting the right Ofcom licence might sound complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you need simple coverage for a school or full nationwide communication for a logistics company, there’s a licence to suit your needs.

By choosing the correct licence, you’ll ensure your two-way radios work legally, securely, and interference-free, and with DCRS handling the process on your behalf, you can focus on running your business while we take care of the paperwork.