CB radio in the UK: compliant equipment, channels and first setup

CB radio is licence-exempt in the UK when the equipment and operation meet the applicable technical requirements. You do not need an amateur-radio exam for compliant CB. It can be useful for local conversations between equipped users, but a radio, an appropriate antenna and an agreed channel and mode are all needed. Start with Ofcom’s CB guidance, not a seller’s claim that an “export” radio is unrestricted.

What is legal: UK FM and EU/CEPT channels

UK CB has two familiar forty-channel plans. The UK 27/81 plan is used for FM; the EU/CEPT plan supports FM and, with compliant equipment, AM and SSB. SSB means single sideband, selected as upper sideband (USB) or lower sideband (LSB). Everyone in a conversation must select the same channel plan and compatible mode.

• FM on UK or EU/CEPT channels: IR2027, table 3.1 limits transmitter RF carrier output to 4 W for equipment with a non-integral antenna. For integral-antenna equipment, both carrier output and ERP are limited to 4 W.
• AM/DSB on EU/CEPT channels: IR2027.2, table 2.1 specifies maximum ERP of 4 W measured as root mean square.
• SSB on EU/CEPT channels: the same document specifies maximum ERP of 12 W measured as peak envelope power (PEP). That is not permission to use 12 W FM or to transmit SSB on the UK-only channel plan.

ERP describes radiated power including the antenna’s effect; PEP and FM carrier power are different measures. Use a compliant radio and installation within the relevant limits. Do not fit an amplifier, unlock extra bands or assume reducing an amateur transceiver’s power makes it compliant CB.

27.555 MHz is not one of the licence-exempt UK CB channels below. Describing it as a popular international calling frequency does not make transmission there lawful under the CB exemption. The legal CEPT channel centres end at 27.405 MHz. Ofcom also requires CB to operate without causing harmful interference and without claiming protection from other services.

The UK and EU/CEPT channel tables

These are channel centre frequencies from Ofcom IR2027, table 3.2. Saying only “channel 14” is ambiguous: specify the band and mode as well. The CEPT numbering has gaps and an unusual order around channels 23–25; do not generate it by adding a fixed step to every channel number.

Choose a workable first station

For simple local use, agree what nearby users actually have before buying. An FM-only radio cannot receive SSB speech intelligibly. A multi-standard set needs the correct UK configuration, not merely a country label selected by guesswork. Ask for the exact model’s manual and evidence that it is intended for compliant UK CB use.

A mobile-style CB usually needs an external antenna and a suitable DC supply; the radio alone is not a complete station. Budget for the correct antenna, mount, coaxial cable, connectors and power lead. At home use a manufacturer-compatible supply; never connect a DC input directly to the mains. Follow specified voltage, polarity, current capacity and fusing. Arrange competent help with vehicle wiring or outdoor mounting if unsure.

Set up and make your first contact

1. Install the antenna safely. Follow its instructions for mounting and any required ground plane. Keep it and its supports away from overhead lines. Do not climb roofs or erect antennas in dangerous weather.
2. Check the antenna system before transmitting. Fit the correct connectors and inspect the cable. Use a suitable standing-wave-ratio (SWR) meter and the manufacturer’s procedure, or ask an experienced installer. SWR indicates antenna-system mismatch; if outside the manufacturer’s limit, stop and investigate rather than transmitting for longer.
3. Confirm the band, channel and mode. Start with an agreed legal channel in FM if both radios support it. For SSB, both must select the same USB or LSB mode.
4. Set volume and squelch. Squelch mutes background noise; too high a setting can hide weaker callers. Begin with noise audible and increase it only enough to quieten the receiver.
5. Listen before speaking. When clear, press PTT, pause briefly and make a short call: “Radio check, anyone available?” You can introduce yourself with a first name or agreed handle; do not impersonate an emergency service.
6. Release PTT and wait. Keep transmissions short, leave gaps and share the channel. If you arrange a move, confirm the new band, channel and mode with the other person.
7. Test the intended path. Try both directions and record practical limits. Check a vehicle installation while parked safely, not by adjusting menus while driving.

Range, interference and emergency limitations

CB range changes with antenna siting, terrain, buildings, electrical noise and propagation. Hearing a distant station does not establish dependable local coverage or prove it can hear you. SSB is not a guaranteed long-distance emergency link. If there is no reply, check band, mode, antenna, power and squelch before assuming the radio is faulty.

No CB channel should be treated as a guaranteed route to the emergency services. In immediate danger use 999 or 112 and follow official instructions. For news during a power cut, keep a separate FM broadcast receiver.

Cumbria and Scotland: find people before relying on a channel

The legal guidance above is UK-wide. Local activity is not guaranteed or continuously monitored. Ask in the CumbriaCQ CB & PMR446 forum about current local interest, then agree a lawful channel and practise. For a simpler handheld arrangement compare PMR446; for broader technical learning explore amateur radio.