Talk Critical
Best for families · Narrated course

Keep the whole family talking when the cell towers go quiet.

GMRS is the radio service the FCC sets aside for families. One $35 license covers everyone, there is no test, and a $33 handheld can reach a few miles on its own or 20 to 50 miles through a repeater. This narrated course takes you from buying the radios to talking through a repeater tower.

Get the full course, $10/monthFree preview
$35one license, whole family
10 yearsbefore you renew
No testapply online in ~20 minutes
20 minnarrated course, 26 slides
Free preview

A look inside GMRS Radio: Step by Step

Two slides from the course, and the opening of the narration. Every slide is narrated, then followed by a reading slide with the words written out.

Listen to the opening
What you'll learn

The full course

  • Buy the right radiosWhat to buy for each person, what comes in the box, and where to buy so every radio matches.
  • Know your radioA labeled drawing of all 18 parts, and what each one is for.
  • The FCC license, screen by screenLogin, FRN, the application, the $35 payment and your call sign.
  • First-time setup and a channel planSix setup steps, the buttons you will use, and how to choose a main and backup channel.
  • Talking when the phones are downHow to make a call, the listen-on-the-hour rule, and what never to say on the air.
  • RepeatersFinding one, asking for access, and programming every radio at once with free CHIRP software.
  • 25-question test and certificateEvery answer explained; score 80% to print your certificate.

Questions

How do I get in after I pay?

Gumroad emails you a receipt with a license key. Go to Members sign in, paste the key, and the courses open.

Can I cancel?

Yes, at any time in your Gumroad Library. You keep access until the end of the month you paid for.

Do I need any radio experience?

No. Every step is shown and narrated in plain English, from opening the box to making your first call.

What else is included?

One membership opens all three courses: Ham Radio: Step by Step and Hand-Crank Emergency Radio are included too.