New User

[WSKU567]

I just got my GMRS ticket and need to know how to talk on this band. I have been a CB'er since 1962(KGL-2151),so I'm familiar with radio. I'd like to know how to break channel,or call out to someone while monitouring,etc. Do you use CQ with your call to announce your presents? I want to have fun with GMRS,and would appreciate any help or advice.

I can be contacted at redgreen1945@gmail.com.

Thank you

Steve

[OffRoaderX]

45 minutes ago, WSKU567 said:

I just got my GMRS ticket and need to know how to talk on this band.

To start, its not called a GMRS "ticket". 

[amaff]

You just push the button and talk, friend.
And throw out your call sign once ever 15 minutes or so.

[WRUE951]

get on there and say breaker breaker. 

[SteveShannon]

11 hours ago, WSKU567 said:

I just got my GMRS ticket and need to know how to talk on this band. I have been a CB'er since 1962(KGL-2151),so I'm familiar with radio. I'd like to know how to break channel,or call out to someone while monitouring,etc. Do you use CQ with your call to announce your presents? I want to have fun with GMRS,and would appreciate any help or advice.

I can be contacted at <redacted>.

Thank you

Steve

@amaff gave good advice. GMRS doesn’t use the lingo used by either CB or ham radio. People use first names typically, not handles but of course however you want to introduce yourself is strictly your choice. 
It’s also not typically a service where people make blind contacts the way ham radio operators do, but some people do treat it like that. The rules don’t prohibit it but people who live in vicinities where the channels are busy may resent having the very limited number of channels used for something they refer to as “ham light.” 
To answer your specific questions, you would typically not break into a conversation but change channels or wait until there’s a long enough pause or invitation. Guage it by the type of conversation you’re hearing. 
If you want to announce your presence a simple statement like “wsku567 monitoring” is enough. Someone might respond. 
Finally, in a public forum like this it’s risky to publish your own email address. People will answer your question in a reply or a pm, not an email, but scammers will gladly harvest your email address. 
Welcome!

[WSFN703]

Amaff and Steve just about summed it up.  If you're looking to make contact and the channel is quiet, then call-sign and "monitoring", and someone may answer.  If a chat is going on, then gauge as to the appropriateness to jump in.  If appropriate, wait for a break, call-sign and "comment" or " question".  Then let them invite you in.  

We have a pretty active repeater so everyone knows that any conversation is likely being listened by several folks and conversations are, mostly, open to general conversation.  There are a few exceptions.  The other night a father and son (adults) were talking about Christmas plans.  I listened but let them have their "private" conversation without interruption (not that I had anything to say).  On the other hand, a couple of guys were talking about places to go fishing and I realized that one of the lakes they were considering was private, so I broke in appropriately and let them know.  The appreciated the information and we chatted for a minute then I backed out and let them finish.  

It all is about appropriateness and respect.  Welcome to GMRS.  

[Jaay]

13 hours ago, OffRoaderX said:

To start, its not called a GMRS "ticket". 

The Queen's Only ticket happens when that Jeep rolls too fast ! 

[Mrsig]

and enjoy the forum! 

Good Buddy!

[kirk5056]

These suggestions on how to start a conversation are correct.  But don't be disappointed if no one replies.  There just are not that many of us out there.  GMRS is not really set up or designed for meeting strangers, it is best for communication with people you already know.

If you want to meet strangers I hope you are successful, but you may have better luck on CB or going the ham route.  Both those radio services are better at that. 

[OffRoaderX]

15 minutes ago, kirk5056 said:

If you want to meet strangers I hope you are successful,

If you want to "make contacts" with anonymous men, try H.A.M.s radios or the Grindr app on your phone.

[nokones]

On 12/17/2025 at 7:16 PM, WSKU567 said:

I just got my GMRS ticket and need to know how to talk on this band. I have been a CB'er since 1962(KGL-2151),so I'm familiar with radio. I'd like to know how to break channel,or call out to someone while monitouring,etc. Do you use CQ with your call to announce your presents? I want to have fun with GMRS,and would appreciate any help or advice.

I can be contacted at redgreen1945@gmail.com.

Thank you

Steve

My CB license was KLC6737.