In the UK, use of wireless microphone systems requires a license, except for the license free bands of 173.8–175.0 MHz and 863–865 MHz (N.B. This is not to be confused with TV Channel 69, which operates on 854–862 MHz. In the UK Channel 69 frequencies require a license from JFMG Ltd.: [1] ).

The UK communications regulator, Ofcom, had said that it would auction that part of the UHF spectrum currently reserved for wireless microphones, to which objections have been raised by Andrew Lloyd Webber [2] [3] and many others. Following public consultations this decision was changed and the UHF frequencies used for radio microphones are to be licensed to a commercially based Band Manager [4] with special obligations to "Programme Making and Special Events" (PMSE) users following a "beauty contest" selection process. The future of the UHF spectrum above 798 MHz, including 'Channel 69' has been further thrown in to doubt by moves across Europe to create a new 800 MHz band for mobile broadband applications. [5]

USA

Licenses are required to use wireless microphones on vacant TV channels in the United States as they are a part of the Broadcast Auxiliary Service (BAS). However, this requirement is often overlooked and rarely enforced by the FCC. Licenses are available only to broadcasters, cable networks, television and film producers. However, the FCC has issued a Report and Order^[16] stating that they now no longer allow Broadcast Auxiliary Service (BAS) devices to operate in the 698–806 MHz portion of the spectrum due to their auction of the 700 MHz band.^[17] This change is unrelated to, but commonly confused with, the White Space device debate that is currently taking place in the U.S.

The same Report and Order, issued January 15, 2010, also permits most wireless microphones and other 'low power auxiliary stations' in the "core TV band" (TV channels 2 through 51, except 37) to operate with transmit power up to 50 mW without a license, under a special waiver of Part 15 rules. A rule change to make this permanent is proposed.

There are currently some wireless microphone manufacturers that are marketing wireless microphones for use in the United States that operate within the 944–952 MHz band reserved for studio-transmitter link communications. These microphones have the potential to interfere with studio-transmitter links, and their use must be coordinated by the Society of Broadcast Engineers. Licenses in this band are only available to licensees of radio and TV stations, and broadcasters are likely to report unauthorized use in this band due to the high potential for interference.

Australia

In Australia, operation of wireless microphones of up to 100 mW between 520 MHz and 820 MHz is covered by a class license, allowing any user to operate the devices without obtaining an individual license. The onus, however, is on the user of the wireless microphone to resolve any interference that the use of the microphone may cause to licensed radio communications services.^[18]

Other countries

In many other countries wireless microphone use does require a license. Some governments regard all radio frequencies as military assets and the use of unlicensed radio transmitters, even wireless microphones, may be severely punished.

For further information regarding licensing in European countries try the European Radio Office (ERO) based in Denmark [6]