September 15, 2026
How Long Does an FCC License Last?
Most FCC licenses — including amateur radio and GMRS — are valid for 10 years. But renewal rules vary by service. Here's what you need to know to keep your license active.
The FCC issues licenses with varying terms depending on the radio service. Knowing your license term and renewal window is critical — letting a license expire means you're no longer legally authorized to transmit, even if your license is technically in a grace period.
License Terms by Service
- Amateur Radio — 10 years from the grant date
- GMRS — 10 years from the grant date
- Ship Station — 10 years
- Aircraft Station — typically granted for the life of the aircraft under the owner's registration
- Land Mobile Radio — typically 10 years, though some licenses have different terms based on the specific rule part
The Amateur Radio Grace Period
Amateur radio operators benefit from a two-year grace period after their license expires. During the grace period, the operator cannot legally transmit, but they can still renew their license and retain their original call sign. This is an important distinction — the grace period is not an extension of operating authority, just an extension of the window to renew without losing the call sign.
Checking Your Expiration Date
You can look up any license on CallSignLookup to see its expiration date. The expiring soon page lists amateur radio licenses expiring within the next 90 days, which is useful for operators who want to monitor their own renewal deadline or watch for call signs that may become available.