VHF radios for 4 x 4 and offroad use

Things to know about radio use in the backcountry!

Resource Roads Channels (BC 4WD Association)

In 2015, BC started a new Resource Road Radio Program. Many active FSRs previously used the operating company’s own leased frequencies, leaving other road users unsure in advance of what channels they would need to monitor for traffic. The RR project created a common set of 35 road channels for use on public FSRs throughout the province, along with standardized protocol and signage. This allows FSR users to have their radios pre-loaded with all 35 RR channels and 14 “loading” channels, and easily switch to the appropriate one when entering an FSR.

It’s important to note that it is only legal to transmit on these channels using a certified and licensed land mobile(“commercial” or “business”) radio. The license is available by submitting an application and license fee ($42 annually, prorated) to ISED, and only a qualified person or radio shop is allowed to program them. We can assist you in submitting the license application, and will program the assigned channels for minimal cost or for free, depending on the radio model purchased.

Outside of a land mobile radio, it is also only legal to program the channels for monitoring in a radio that is incapable of transmitting on them – specifically, a “true” ham radio that is restricted to transmitting within the ham bands. It is not legal to enter these frequencies into “unlocked” radios such as Baofengs and other Chinese radios.

Yes, we understand it’s “a safety thing”. That doesn’t make it okay” to use them illegally, when nobody is restricted from BEING legal: anyone can pick up a land mobile radio, get the license. If you only wish to listen, a scanner is a better choice, as you can key in any frequency you want without the need for a license.

Do I need a license?

Yes!  Most radios in Canada that can transmit, must be licensed by the government (ISED).  The type of radio and frequency of the channel you are using will determine which license you need.

Are there radios that don’t need a license?

Yes!  Radios that do not require a license for use in Canada are CB radios, FRS radios, and GMRS radios.   These are ideal for those wishing to talk between vehicles while on the road, camping, hiking, or other recreational use, within a line of sight. These systems are not compatible with Resource Road channels.

Are there specific channels for 4x4 operators?

Yes!  If you have a commercial radio and license, and belong to the BC 4 Wheel Drive Association, there are designated channels that can be programmed into your radio specifically for offroad users.  We can program these channels on your radio, with proof of membership in the form of a letter for a nominal fee. Membership in the 4 Wheel Drive association costs $25 per year, and can be joined online using their website at 4wdabc.ca  

Can I use an amateur or HAM radio?

Maybe.  If you already have an amateur radio and license, there are specific channels that can be used for offroad communication.  These radios cannot be legally used to transmit on Resource Road channels, thus we do not recommend them for this purpose.    

My radio has many channels in it already with names like Prospect, Lillooet, or Cayoosh, can I use these?

Probably not. While some of these frequencies may have active users, the channel assignments could have changed since your radio was programmed.  For safety it is best to remove these channels and reprogram your radio with the current Resource Road standards.  The named Forestry Road channels were discontinued in BC over 15 years ago.

Which radio should I buy?

Metro Mobile has several choices of VHF commercial radios that will work with the resource roads and 4 x 4 club channels.

Choices include:

Icom F5023 – 128 channel analog radio
Icom F5220D – 128 channel digital radio (for use with the newer NXDN channels in use by 4 x 4 clubs)
RCA BRM300A – 1000 channel analog radio with optional remote head features.  This is a good choice for those who want installation flexibility or for amateur radio operators, who require a larger channel capacity.
Hytera MD622A – 128 channel analog radio. Easy to read display in a compact modern style radio.

Can I use my radio in the United States or Mexico?

It depends.
Commercial radios are only licensed and permitted for use within Canada, using the radio in the United States or Mexico is subject to different rules than Canada, and would require a license issued by the FCC in the USA, or the CoFeTel in Mexico.
CB Radios can be used in Canada and the USA without a license.  In Mexico, visitors are required to obtain a180 day permit for a nominal fee in advance of your trip.
FRS Radios can be used in Canada and the USA without a license, however radios from Canada/USA cannot be used in Mexico as they operate on different frequencies and will interfere with government communications.  If you wish to use FRS/GRMS in Mexico, you should purchase the radios once you arrive, available at most department or electronics stores.  Radios from Mexico cannot be used in Canada or the USA.
GMRS radios from Canada cannot be used in the United States without a license and are not permitted for use in Mexico.  US market GMRS radios also should not be used in Canada unless specifically authorized by a sticker issued by Industry Canada.
Amateur radios can be used in the United States, but require you to identify as mobile and the region you are transmitting from.  In Mexico a permit is required issued by CoFeTel before arrival.

How do I obtain a radio license?
Commercial licenses can be applied for through ISED.  We recommend creating an account and applying online for faster service.
https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/spectrum-management-system/en/radiocommunication-licensing-services/apply-radio-licence
Amateur licenses require a passing mark on an exam, tested by local radio clubs, and issued by ISED with a Callsign.  Licenses are free of charge and do not expire, however a nominal fee may be charged for the exam.

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