Amateur Radio Frequency Allocations
Complete frequency chart showing authorized amateur radio bands and their permitted uses in the United States
Quick Navigation
HF Bands (High Frequency)
Long-distance communication bands for worldwide contacts
VHF Bands (Very High Frequency)
Line-of-sight and local communication bands
UHF Bands (Ultra High Frequency)
Higher frequency bands for local and satellite communication
SHF Bands (Super High Frequency)
Microwave bands for experimental and satellite communication
Operating Modes
Different types of communication modes authorized for amateur radio
CW (Morse Code)
Continuous Wave - traditional Morse code communication
- All bands
- Efficient for weak signals
- International language
SSB (Single Sideband)
Voice communication using single sideband modulation
- HF and VHF bands
- Most common voice mode
- Efficient bandwidth usage
FM (Frequency Modulation)
Voice communication using frequency modulation
- VHF/UHF bands
- High quality audio
- Repeater operation
Digital Modes
Computer-based communication modes
- FT8, FT4, PSK31
- RTTY, SSTV
- All bands
Satellite
Communication via amateur satellites
- VHF/UHF/SHF bands
- Cross-band operation
- International contacts
Data/APRS
Digital data transmission and tracking
- Packet radio
- APRS tracking
- VHF/UHF bands
Important Notes
Power Limits
Maximum power is 1500W PEP (Peak Envelope Power) for most bands. Some bands have lower limits.
License Class
Access to certain bands depends on your license class (Technician, General, Amateur Extra).
Band Plans
Follow voluntary band plans for mode segregation and efficient use of spectrum.
International
Frequency allocations may vary by country. Check local regulations when operating abroad.