Subject: Wireless Microphone Licensing FAQ (USA) Newsgroups: rec.audio.pro Distribution: usa [Last modified 09-Mar-01] The latest version of this file can be accessed via my web page: http://www.rdrop.com/users/billmc Wireless Microphone Licensing FAQ Bill McFadden billmc@rdrop.com This is a FAQ for wireless microphone licensing in the US. Please send comments, additions, and corrections to me. Changes preceded by "|". Relevant FCC rule sections are shown in brackets. This FAQ provided for information purposes only. Use at your own risk. |ATTENTION! The FCC has changed its licensing system again. Fortunately, |most applications can now be done on the web. Form 601 replaces Form 600. |I will update this FAQ as I learn more. In the meantime, see: http://wtbwww05.fcc.gov/ Q: What? You need a license for a wireless mic? A: That's what the FCC says, unless it operates in the 49 MHz, AM/FM | broadcast, 902-928 MHz or 2.4 GHz band. [Part 15, 90.113, 90.265(b)] Q: What will happen to me if I use my wireless mic without a license? A: Probably nothing. The FCC doesn't appear to be interested in enforcing this requirement, but it may if you create interference or someone files a complaint. Most wireless mic users are not even aware of the licensing requirement. Many who are view unlicensed operation as being no worse than driving at 5 MPH over the speed limit and choose to "beg forgiveness rather than ask permission." Q: Can anybody get a wireless mic license? A: Only businesses, schools, charitable organizations, churches, and hospitals are eligible under Part 90. Part 74 Subpart H covers wireless mics used by broadcasters but is beyond the scope of this FAQ. [90.75(a)] Q: How difficult is it to get a license? A: It's a little difficult to fill out the forms if you've never done it before, but this FAQ should make it easier. If you follow the procedures properly, the FCC will almost certainly grant the license. [90.143(a)] Q: How long does it take to get a license? A: Don't hold your breath. Remember, this is the government. It took me 18 weeks, including a week to fill out the forms. Your mileage may vary. [90.143(b)] Q: How much does a license cost? A: $75 for 5 years. [90.149(a), 1998 FCC fee filing guide] Q: How do I pick an operating frequency? A: Find out which frequencies are available for the microphone(s) you plan to buy. Next, monitor those frequencies for a week using a scanner. You should search at least 100 kHz on either side of the frequency of interest. Frequencies that contain weak or no signals should be safe to use. Q: What frequencies are available? A: The following frequencies are available under Part 90 (MHz): 169.445, 169.505, 170.245, 170.305, 171.045, 171.105, 171.845, and 171.905. [90.265(b)] Q: What about other wireless mic frequencies not listed above? A: Frequencies in the following bands may be used by broadcast stations or networks, cable TV operators, motion picture producers, and TV program producers under Part 74 Subpart H (MHz): 26.1-26.48, 54-72, 76-88, 161.625-161.775, 174-216, 450-451, 455-456, 470-608, 614-806, 944-952. See CFR 47 Part 74 Subpart H for more information. [74.802(a), 74.832(a)] Q: What if I'm not one of the entities listed above? Can I still use a wireless mic? A: The best thing to do in this situation is to call the FCC at 888-225-5322 and ask what frequencies you are eligible to use. Q: I've decided to apply for a license. What do I need to do first? A: You need to get an application from the FCC and a current copy of FCC rules Part 90. You can buy the rule book from the US Government Printing Office (202-783-3238) or your local Printing Office Book Store. Ask for 47 CFR Part 90. You can also download it from the FCC's web site at: http://www.fcc.gov/oet/info/rules/ [Form 600 instructions] Q: Where can I get the license application? A: Call your local FCC field office or the main information line at 888-225-5322, and ask for Forms 600 and 159. You can also download them from the FCC's web site at: http://www.fcc.gov/formpage.html [90.117, 90.119(a)(1)] Q: I have the forms and a copy of the rules. What do I need to do next? A: First of all, fill out Forms 600 and 159. Each item must be complete, correct, and typewritten, or the FCC will send it back, and you'll have to start all over again. I wasted 10 weeks on my first attempt because of some missing information. See the Appendix below for a guideline. Next, make out a check or money order for $75.00, payable to "FCC." Mail the forms and the $75 to: Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau Applications, P.O. Box 358130, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5130. [90.123(a), 90.123(b), 90.127(a)(2), 90.139(b), 90.141, 1998 FCC fee filing guide] Q: Does my application require frequency coordination? A: No. The FCC will forward your application to the Government coordinator for you. [90.175(i)(2), 90.265(b)(4)] Q: How do I determine my geographic coordinates? A: Get a USGS 7.5 minute topographic map for your area. Pinpoint your location on the map and determine its coordinates to the nearest second. I've also heard that you can obtain your coordinates from the county assessor's office. Another possibility is to use a GPS receiver, if you happen to have one handy. USGS maps cost a few dollars, and you can buy them from the USGS (U.S. Geological Survey, Washington, D.C., 20242) or sources listed in the yellow pages under "maps." [Form 600 instructions] Q: What if I make a mistake on my application or change my mind? A: You can amend or withdraw your application in writing any time before the license is granted. Sign and submit it in the same manner as for the original application. Contact the FCC at 888-225-5322 for assistance. [90.131] Q: How can I check on the status of my application? A: First, there's no point in checking less than 60 days after you mail your application, because the FCC won't have any information for you. After 60 days, you can call 888-225-5322 for information. If they ask for the filing number, tell them you don't have one yet. They will ask for the applicant's name and zip code and the class of service (tell them "business"). They will tell you the application status and give you a filing number that you can use the next time you call. Check back once a month. Q: What do I do when the license arrives? A: Post the license or a legible photocopy in plain sight near the wireless mic receiver or PA system controls, and enjoy the use of your microphone. [90.437(a), 90.437(b)] Q: How do I renew my license after the five years is up? A: The FCC will send you a renewal form, 574-R, within 60 days of the license expiration. If no changes need to be made, or only the mailing address or licensee name have changed (without changes in ownership, control, or corporate structure), you can sign and send it back with $75. [90.119(e), 90.135(d)] Q: My license is about to expire, but the FCC didn't send me a renewal form. Now what do I do? A: If there are no changes, submit Forms 405-A and 159 to Federal Communications Commission, 574R/405A Station Renewal, P.O. Box 358245, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5245. [90.119(b)(1), 1998 FCC fee filing guide] Q: I received a renewal in the mail more than 90 days before my license expires. Should I submit it? A: Unless it is a 574-R from the FCC, it is a commercial solicitation from a private company that will submit your application for a fee (in addition to the FCC renewal fee). Save your money and do it yourself. Q: What is the deadline for renewing my license? A: You have to file a renewal application at least 30 but no more than 90 days before the expiration date, or apply for reinstatement within 30 days after the expiration date. Otherwise, the license will be cancelled. [90.127(b), 90.149(b)] Q: I submitted my renewal before the deadline, but the license expired before I received the new one. Do I have to stop transmitting? A: No, the license is still valid until the FCC has completed processing of the renewal. [90.127(b)] Q: I missed the renewal deadline. What can I do? A: You can apply for a reinstatement up to 30 days after the license expires. File Form 574-R or 405-A as you would for a renewal. If more than 30 days have elapsed since the expiration, you must apply for a new license. [90.119(b)(1), 90.127(b), 90.149(a), 1998 FCC fee filing guide] Q: What do I do if I need to make a change to my license? A: For changes in mailing address or licensee name (without changes in ownership, control, or corporate structure): If the license is not due for renewal, submit Form 405-A to Federal Communications Commission, Gettysburg, PA, 17326. No fee is required. If the license is due for renewal, submit Forms 405-A and 159 (or form 574-R, if you received one) to Federal Communications Commission, 574R/405A Station Renewal, P.O. Box 358245, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5245, within 30 days of the expiration date. The fee is $75. For changes in frequency, number of transmitters, area of operation, ownership, control, or corporate structure, submit Forms 600 and 159 to Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau Applications, P.O. Box 358130, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5130. The fee is $45 (or $75 if the license is due for renewal). [90.119(a)(3), 90.119(b)(2), 90.135, 1998 FCC fee filing guide] Q: What can I do if someone else is using my frequency? A: Not much. Wireless mics operate on a secondary basis, meaning that you can't interfere with primary users (e.g., federal government) but have to accept interference from them. If you are experiencing this kind of interference, your only choice may be to change frequency. You might be able to exchange your microphone for one that operates on a different frequency or have the manufacturer re-tune it, but you'll need to get a license for the new frequency. If the interference occurs only when your wireless mic transmitter is off, you can probably eliminate the interference by increasing the squelch threshold on your wireless mic receiver. If you are experiencing interference from another wireless mic user, you may be able to find out who it is by listening to their transmissions. Failing that, walk or drive around with a scanner until you pinpoint the source. It is probably less than a mile away. Contact the other user and try to work out a compromise. [90.265(b)(4)] Q: Do I need to announce my call sign at regular intervals? A: No. Wireless mics are exempt from this requirement. [90.425(d)(9)] Q: Who can I call for assistance? A: Call the FCC customer assistance line at 888-225-5322. I don't recommend calling the local field office, because one of them gave me bad advice that resulted in my having to resubmit an application. APPENDIX A: Information resources FCC assistance: call toll-free 888-225-5322 FCC rules: http://www.fcc.gov/oet/info/rules/ FCC forms: http://www.fcc.gov/formpage.html 1998 FCC fee filing guide: http://www.fcc.gov/fees/98wtbguide.txt Wireless microphone tutorials: http://www.yale.edu/dramat/sound/wireless.html http://www.audiosystemsgroup.com/wireless.htm APPENDIX B: Filling out Form 600 (specific instructions for wireless mics) Main Form Filing Fee section: (a) Enter "PALR" for a new license or renewal Enter "PALM" for a license modification (b) Enter "1" (c) Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal Enter "$45.00" for a license modification (d) Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal Enter "$45.00" for a license modification 1-8 Enter applicant information (name/address of organization applying for license) 9-16 Enter contact information (if different from applicant) 17. Enter "N" 18. Enter "D" 19. Enter "I" for new license, "M" for modification, or "R" for renewal 20. If renewing or modifying an existing license, enter the call sign 21. Leave blank 22. Enter "P" 23. Enter "I" 24. Enter "N" 25. Enter "N" 26. Enter "IG" 27. Leave blank 28. Enter "N" 29. Enter "N" 30-33 Leave blank 34-37 Enter "N" 38. Enter "Y" 39. Fill in appropriate letter Enter "I" if you are a sole proprietor 40. Enter name of person signing form 41. Enter title of person signing form 42-43 Sign and date the form. The application must be signed by the applicant, if the applicant is an individual; by one of the partners, if the applicant is a partnership; by an officer or authorized employee if the applicant is a corporation; or by a member who is an officer, if the applicant is an unincorporated association. [1.1913(a), 90.125] Schedules A, B, C Not needed Schedule D Licensee Name: Enter name of applicant Radio Service: Enter "IG" Call Sign or Station Location: Enter city, state if applying for a new license, otherwise enter call sign D1. Place a "N" in the brackets if applying for a new license Place a "M" in the brackets to modify an existing license Place a "R" in the brackets to renew an existing license Place a "X" in the brackets to reinstate an expired license Place a "A" in the brackets to transfer license to another party D2. Leave blank D3. If modifying an existing license, list proposed modifications. Otherwise leave blank. D4. Leave blank D5-D6 Enter address and phone number of primary location where wireless mic will be used D7-D9 Leave blank D10. Leave blank D11. Enter "0" D12. Describe your business or activity. Describe how wireless mic will be used. D13. Enter "90.75(a)(1)" if applicant is a business Enter "90.75(a)(2)" if applicant is a church, school, or charity Enter "90.75(a)(4)" if applicant is a hospital, clinic, etc. D14. Leave blank Schedule E Licensee Name: Enter name of applicant Radio Service: Enter "IG" Call Sign or Station Location: Enter city, state if applying for a new license, otherwise enter call sign E1. Look at the map used to derive the geographic coordinates. It should say something like "North American Datum 1927." Enter "2" for NAD27 coordinates, "8" for NAD83 coordinates, "O" for other. Most maps are NAD27. E2-E8 Leave blank E9. Enter "0.2" on line G E10. Enter "P on line G E11. Enter your geographic coordinates on line G This is the location of the wireless mic receiver E12. Leave blank Schedule F Not needed Schedule G Licensee Name: Enter name of applicant Radio Service: Enter "IG" Call Sign or Station Location: Enter city, state if applying for a new license, otherwise enter call sign LOC: Enter "G" (cross out the preprinted "A") G1. Enter the wireless mic frequency in MHz G2. Enter "MO" G3. Enter the number of wireless mic transmitters you have (or will have) that can be used on this frequency G4. Enter "20K0F3E" G5. Enter "0.05" G6-G8 Leave blank Add a line for each additional frequency you plan to use APPENDIX C: Filling out Form 405A (coming soon) APPENDIX D: Filling out Form 159 This form must accompany Forms 600 and 405A if a fee is owed. 1. Enter "358130" if filing Form 600 Enter "358245" if filing Form 405A 2. Enter the name of the person or company making the payment 3. Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal Enter "$45.00" for a license modification 4-9 Enter address and daytime telephone number of payer 11-17 If applicant and payer names are different, enter applicant name, address and daytime telephone number 19A If renewing or modifying a license, enter call sign 20A Enter "PALR" for a new license or renewal Enter "PALM" for a license modification 21A Enter "1" 22A Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal Enter "$45.00" for a license modification 23A Leave blank 24A Leave blank 25. Enter "0" in leftmost box, followed by: Payer's social security of payer, if payer is an individual, or Payer's taxpayer identification number 26. If applicant and payer names are different, enter applicant's social security number or taxpayer identification number 27. Print your name in the blank and sign where indicated 28. Fill out this section if paying by credit card APPENDIX E: Filling out Form 574R Items 1-5: Should be already filled out by FCC Item 6: Check all boxes that apply Print name and telephone number of person signing the form. Sign and date the form. The application must be signed by the applicant, if the applicant is an individual; by one of the partners, if the applicant is a partnership; by an officer or authorized employee if the applicant is a corporation; or by a member who is an officer, if the applicant is an unincorporated association. [1.1913(a), 90.125] Applicant Classification: Check appropriate box ----- END OF WIRELESS MICROPHONE LICENSING FAQ -----