Amateur radio, a fascinating and diverse hobby, offers a unique blend of social, technical, and public service aspects. 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.
In this guide, we’ll explore the band plans for different license levels, starting with the Technician class, the entry-level license in amateur radio.
Technician License Band Plan
Technician license holders have access to a variety of bands, each with its own characteristics and opportunities. This level opens the door to several key frequency ranges, allowing new amateurs to experience a broad spectrum of what the hobby has to offer.
6 Meters (50-54 MHz)
The 6-meter band, often referred to as the “Magic Band,” offers a unique blend of local and long-distance communication possibilities. Technician licensees have full privileges on this band, which can experience sporadic E propagation, opening up paths for intercontinental communication.
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 50.0 – 50.1 MHz | CW, Beacons | Morse code and beacon operations |
| 50.1 – 50.3 MHz | SSB, CW | Single-sideband and Morse code |
| 50.3 – 50.6 MHz | All Modes | Digital, experimental communications |
| 50.6 – 50.8 MHz | Non-Voice | Radio control, digital modes |
| 50.8 – 51.0 MHz | Radio Remote Control | Remote control operations |
| 51.0 – 54.0 MHz | Various (Repeater, FM, etc) | Repeater use, FM simplex, other modes |
2 Meters (144-148 MHz)
The 2-meter band is one of the most popular and widely used VHF bands in amateur radio, known for its versatility in supporting a range of activities from local chatting to emergency communications.
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 144.00 – 144.05 MHz | EME, Weak Signal CW | Earth-Moon-Earth, weak signal Morse code |
| 144.05 – 144.10 MHz | General CW, Weak Signals | Morse code, weak signal work |
| 144.10 – 144.20 MHz | EME, Weak-Signal SSB | Earth-Moon-Earth, weak signal SSB |
| 144.20 – 144.275 MHz | General SSB | SSB operations |
| 144.275 – 144.300 MHz | Propagation Beacons | Beacon operations |
| 144.30 – 144.50 MHz | Satellite, OSCAR Subband | Satellite communications |
| 144.50 – 148.00 MHz | Various (FM, Repeaters, etc) | FM simplex, repeaters, translators, other modes |
| 146.520 MHz | FM Simplex | U.S. national FM simplex calling frequency |
1.25 Meters (222-225 MHz)
The 1.25-meter band offers Technician licensees a range of frequencies primarily for local and regional communication. This band is known for its use in repeater systems and weak signal work.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 1.25 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 222.0 – 222.15 MHz | Weak-signal modes | EME, SSB, CW, and weak signal work |
| 222.15 – 222.25 MHz | Mixed Modes | Local coordinator’s option; weak signal, ACSB, repeater inputs, control |
| 222.25 – 223.38 MHz | FM Repeater Inputs | Primarily for repeater input frequencies |
| 223.40 – 223.52 MHz | FM Simplex | Direct communication without repeaters |
| 223.52 – 223.64 MHz | Digital, Packet | Digital modes including packet radio |
| 223.64 – 223.70 MHz | Links, Control | Linking and control frequencies |
| 223.71 – 223.85 MHz | Mixed Modes | Local coordinator’s option; FM simplex, packet, repeater outputs |
| 223.85 – 224.98 MHz | FM Repeater Outputs | Primarily for repeater output frequencies |
70 Centimeters (420-450 MHz)
The 70-centimeter band is a mainstay for many Technician licensees, offering a wide range of communication possibilities from local chatting to satellite operation.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 70 Centimeters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 420.00 – 426.00 MHz | ATV, Experimental | ATV repeater/simplex, experimental uses |
| 426.00 – 432.00 MHz | ATV Simplex | ATV simplex operations |
| 432.00 – 432.07 MHz | EME | Earth-Moon-Earth communications |
| 432.07 – 432.10 MHz | Weak-signal CW | Weak signal Morse code operations |
| 432.10 – 432.30 MHz | Mixed Mode, Weak Signal | Mixed-mode and weak-signal work |
| 432.30 – 432.40 MHz | Propagation Beacons | Beacon operations |
| 432.40 – 433.00 MHz | Mixed Mode, Weak Signal | Mixed-mode and weak-signal work |
| 433.00 – 435.00 MHz | Auxiliary/Repeater Links | Auxiliary and repeater link frequencies |
| 435.00 – 438.00 MHz | Satellite (Internationally) | Satellite operations (international use) |
| 438.00 – 444.00 MHz | ATV Repeater, Links | ATV repeater inputs, repeater links |
| 444.00 – 450.00 MHz | Mixed Modes | Repeater inputs/outputs, simplex, auxiliary links |
33 Centimeters (902-928 MHz)
The 33-centimeter band, spanning 902 to 928 MHz, is a playground for various modes and activities, including digital communication, repeaters, and experimental uses. This band is particularly popular for its suitability in urban environments due to its propagation characteristics.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 33 Centimeters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 902.000 – 902.075 MHz | FM, Digital, CW/SSB | Repeater inputs or weak signal |
| 902.075 – 902.100 MHz | CW/SSB | Weak signal |
| 902.100 – 902.125 MHz | CW/SSB | Weak signal calling (regional option) |
| 902.125 – 903.000 MHz | FM, Digital | Repeater inputs (paired with 927.125-928.000 MHz) |
| 903.000 – 903.100 MHz | CW/SSB | Beacons and weak signal |
| 903.100 – 903.400 MHz | CW/SSB | Weak signal |
| 903.400 – 909.000 MHz | Mixed Modes | Mixed operations, control links |
| 909.000 – 915.000 MHz | Analog/Digital | Broadband multimedia (ATV, DATV, SS) |
| 915.000 – 921.000 MHz | Analog/Digital | Broadband multimedia (ATV, DATV, SS) |
| 921.000 – 927.000 MHz | Analog/Digital | Broadband multimedia (ATV, DATV, SS) |
| 927.000 – 928.000 MHz | FM, Digital | Repeater outputs (paired with 902.125-903.000 MHz) |
23 Centimeters (1240-1300 MHz)
The 23-centimeter band offers a wide array of activities, from traditional voice communication to digital modes, satellite operation, and even amateur television. It’s a band that appeals to a broad spectrum of amateur radio enthusiasts due to its versatility.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 23 Centimeters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 1240.00 – 1246.000 MHz | ATV | Amateur Television (ATV Channel #1) |
| 1246.000 – 1248.000 MHz | FM, Digital | Point-to-point links (paired with 1258-1260 MHz) |
| 1248.000 – 1252.000 MHz | Digital | Various digital modes |
| 1252.000 – 1258.000 MHz | ATV | Amateur Television (ATV Channel #2) |
| 1258.000 – 1260.000 MHz | FM, Digital | Point-to-point links (paired with 1246-1248 MHz) |
| 1260.000 – 1270.000 MHz | Various | Satellite uplinks, experimental, simplex ATV |
| 1270.000 – 1288.000 MHz | FM, Digital | Repeater inputs and outputs, experimental |
| 1288.000 – 1294.000 MHz | Various | Broadband experimental, simplex ATV |
| 1294.000 – 1295.000 MHz | FM | FM simplex, including national calling frequency 1294.500 MHz |
| 1295.000 – 1297.000 MHz | Various | Narrow band segment, experimental |
| 1297.000 – 1300.000 MHz | Digital | Various digital modes |
General License Band Plan
General license holders enjoy expanded privileges compared to Technician licensees. This includes access to all Technician bands plus additional bands and modes, offering a broader spectrum for communication and experimentation.
160 Meters (1.8-2.0 MHz)
The 160-meter band, often referred to as the “Top Band,” is a favorite for long-distance communication, especially during nighttime. General licensees have access to this entire band, which is particularly known for its excellent propagation characteristics during the winter months.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 160 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 1.800 – 1.810 MHz | CW, Digital | Morse code and digital modes |
| 1.810 – 1.843 MHz | CW | General Morse code operations |
| 1.843 – 2.000 MHz | SSB, SSTV, and other wideband modes | Single Sideband and other wideband modes, including SSTV |
| 1.910 MHz | SSB QRP | Lower power SSB operations |
| 1.995 – 2.000 MHz | Experimental | Experimental modes |
| 1.999 – 2.000 MHz | Beacons | Beacon transmissions |
General licensees can utilize the 160-meter band for a variety of modes, including CW, digital, SSB, and experimental modes. This band is particularly appealing for its long-distance (DX) capabilities and is a popular choice for contests and DXpeditions.
80 Meters (3.5-4.0 MHz)
The 80-meter band is known for its reliable night-time propagation and is a popular choice for regional communications, especially during the evening and night hours. General licensees have access to a significant portion of this band, which accommodates a variety of modes.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 80 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 3.500 – 3.525 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 3.525 – 3.600 MHz | CW, Digital | Morse code and digital modes |
| 3.600 – 3.775 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone, Image | Mixed modes including phone and image |
| 3.775 – 4.000 MHz | Phone, Image | Primarily for voice and image modes |
This band is particularly favored for its versatility, supporting everything from Morse code and digital modes to phone and image transmissions. It’s a go-to band for many General licensees for both casual conversations and emergency communications.
30 Meters (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.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 30 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 10.100 – 10.130 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 10.130 – 10.140 MHz | Digital | Digital modes, including RTTY and PSK31 |
| 10.140 – 10.150 MHz | CW, Digital | Mixed Morse code and digital 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 Meters (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.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 20 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 14.000 – 14.070 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 14.070 – 14.095 MHz | Digital | Digital modes, including RTTY and PSK31 |
| 14.095 – 14.100 MHz | Digital (Packet) | Packet radio |
| 14.100 MHz | Beacons | NCDXF/IARU beacons |
| 14.1005 – 14.112 MHz | Digital (Packet) | Packet radio |
| 14.112 – 14.150 MHz | CW, Digital | Mixed Morse code and digital modes |
| 14.225 – 14.350 MHz | Phone, Image | Voice and image modes |
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.
17 Meters (18.068-18.168 MHz)
The 17-meter band, also known as the “seventeen-meter band,” is known for its reliable daytime DX capabilities. It is less crowded than the 20-meter band and is often used for more relaxed, leisurely communications.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 17 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 18.068 – 18.095 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 18.095 – 18.110 MHz | Digital | Digital modes, including RTTY and PSK31 |
| 18.110 – 18.168 MHz | CW, Phone | Mixed Morse code and voice communications |
The 17-meter band is appreciated for its balance between good DX potential and relatively quiet operating conditions. It’s a great choice for those looking to enjoy international communication without the heavy traffic found on some other bands.
15 Meters (21.0-21.45 MHz)
The 15-meter band is another popular choice for long-distance communication, especially during solar maximum periods. It offers excellent daytime propagation and is frequented by operators interested in making international contacts.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 15 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 21.000 – 21.070 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 21.070 – 21.110 MHz | Digital | Digital modes, including RTTY and PSK31 |
| 21.110 – 21.150 MHz | CW, Digital | Mixed Morse code and digital modes |
| 21.150 – 21.200 MHz | CW, Phone | Mixed Morse code and voice communications |
| 21.200 – 21.300 MHz | Phone | Voice communications |
| 21.300 – 21.350 MHz | Phone, Image | Voice and image modes |
| 21.350 – 21.450 MHz | All Modes | Open for all modes, including experimental |
The 15-meter band is known for its ability to provide worldwide communication during high solar activity, making it a favorite for DX enthusiasts.
12 Meters (24.89-24.99 MHz)
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.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 12 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 24.890 – 24.930 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 24.930 – 24.990 MHz | CW, Phone, Digital | Mixed Morse code, voice, and digital modes |
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.
10 Meters (28-29.7 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.
Frequency Allocations and Modes for 10 Meters
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 28.000 – 28.070 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 28.070 – 28.150 MHz | Digital | Digital modes, including RTTY and PSK31 |
| 28.150 – 28.190 MHz | CW | Morse code operations |
| 28.190 – 28.200 MHz | Beacon | Propagation beacons |
| 28.200 – 28.300 MHz | CW, Beacons | Mixed Morse code and beacon operations |
| 28.300 – 29.300 MHz | Phone | Voice communications |
| 29.300 – 29.510 MHz | Satellite | Satellite uplinks and downlinks |
| 29.510 – 29.590 MHz | Repeater Inputs | Inputs for repeaters |
| 29.600 MHz | FM Simplex | FM simplex communications |
| 29.610 – 29.700 MHz | Repeater Outputs | Outputs for repeaters |
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. The band’s versatility in supporting a wide range of modes, from CW and digital to phone and satellite operations, makes it a dynamic and engaging band for General license holders.
Amateur Extra Band Plan
Amateur Extra license holders have the broadest access across the amateur radio spectrum, including exclusive segments in various bands. Below are detailed breakdowns for key bands where Amateur Extra licensees have additional privileges.
Expanded Privileges in HF Bands
160 Meters (1.8-2.0 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 1.800 – 2.000 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Full band access for various modes |
80 Meters (3.5-4.0 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 3.500 – 4.000 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Expanded access including exclusive phone segments |
40 Meters (7.0-7.3 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 7.000 – 7.300 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Additional segments for CW and Phone, ideal for DX |
20 Meters (14.0-14.35 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 14.000 – 14.350 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Full band access, including exclusive portions |
15 Meters (21.0-21.45 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 21.000 – 21.450 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Complete band access with exclusive segments |
10 Meters (28-29.7 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 28.000 – 29.700 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Unrestricted access to the entire band |
VHF and UHF Bands
2 Meters (144-148 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 144.00 – 148.00 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Full access, including exclusive CW and Phone segments |
70 Centimeters (420-450 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 420.00 – 450.00 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone, ATV | Complete access with additional frequencies for various modes |
33 Centimeters (902-928 MHz) and 23 Centimeters (1240-1300 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 902-928 MHz | Various | Full access, including experimental and satellite communication |
| 1240-1300 MHz | Various | Complete access to the band, including unique segments |
Exclusive Bands for Amateur Extra Licensees
12 Meters (24.89-24.99 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 24.890 – 24.990 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Full access with exclusive segments |
17 Meters (18.068-18.168 MHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage |
| 18.068 – 18.168 MHz | CW, Digital, Phone | Complete access with exclusive segments |
These tables provide a comprehensive overview of the expanded and exclusive privileges available to Amateur Extra license holders, showcasing the wide range of frequencies and modes they can explore.
Other Levels or Special Provisions
In addition to the standard license class band plans, there are special provisions and additional bands that cater to specific situations or advanced amateur radio operations. These include the extremely low frequency bands and other unique circumstances in the amateur radio spectrum.
2200 and 600 – Meter Bands
These bands are known for their extremely low frequency and long wavelengths, offering unique propagation characteristics and challenges.
2200 Meter Band (135.7-137.8 kHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage | Special Conditions |
| 135.7 – 137.8 kHz | CW, Digital | Experimental, long-distance communication | Limited to 1 W EIRP; often requires special permission or notification |
600 Meter Band (472-479 kHz)
| Frequency Range | Mode | Usage | Special Conditions |
| 472 – 479 kHz | CW, Digital | Experimental, regional communication | Limited to 5 W EIRP (1 W EIRP in certain areas); may require registration |
These bands are typically used for experimental purposes, as their long wavelengths require large antennas and are subject to specific regulations and power limits.
Additional Notes
- Novice and Advanced Licensees: While no longer issued, these licenses still exist. Holders of these licenses have specific band privileges, often similar to or slightly less than General class licenses.
- Special Event Stations: Occasionally, special event stations are granted temporary access to certain bands or modes for commemorative purposes.
- Emergency Communication: In times of emergency, amateur radio operators may be granted special permissions to operate outside their normal privileges for the purpose of emergency communication.
- Satellite Communication: Different rules may apply for satellite operation, including specific frequency allocations and modes.
- International Operation: When operating in different countries, reciprocal licensing conditions and international agreements must be observed.
These special provisions and additional bands demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of amateur radio to cater to a wide range of interests and circumstances, from experimental low-frequency communication to emergency response.
Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to band plans is a cornerstone of effective and responsible amateur radio operation. These plans are not just guidelines but are essential for maintaining order and preventing interference on the airwaves. They ensure that all operators, regardless of their license class, can coexist harmoniously and make the most out of the shared resource that is the radio spectrum.
For amateur radio enthusiasts, the band plans are more than just rules; they are a framework that enables diverse forms of communication, from local chatting to global messaging, and from technical experimentation to emergency communications. By respecting these plans, operators not only comply with regulatory requirements but also demonstrate respect for their fellow enthusiasts and a commitment to preserving the integrity of the hobby.
Moreover, the band plans are designed to cater to the varying interests and skill levels within the amateur radio community. Whether it’s the thrill of making a long-distance contact on the HF bands, the technical challenge of experimenting on the lower frequencies, or the satisfaction of providing essential communication during emergencies, these plans ensure that every amateur radio operator can find their niche.
