CB radio
Citizens’ Band (CB) radio on 27 MHz for private, non-commercial radio traffic — licence-exempt in accordance with OFCOM regulations.
Since 1 January 2013, CB radios may be operated in Switzerland without a radio licence. However, only equipment that complies with OFCOM’s Swiss interface requirements may be used.
Antennas and modulation
Swiss CB radio operators are permitted to use any type of antenna, including directional antennas. Any modulation mode is also permitted: a Swiss CB radio operator may, for example, use FT8, VARA, RTTY or even CW. It is recommended that you consult the SCBO’s generally accepted channel recommendations beforehand.
Swiss CB call signs
Call signs, which Swiss CB radio operators are free to choose, can be registered with the SCBO. The list of call signs is freely available on the SCBO website.
CB call signs have the prefix at the end. The prefix is derived from the former PTT telecommunications district directorates. The ‘CB Regional Identifier Suffix’ map is available for download in the SCBO download section.
Since 2018, the SCBO has been a section of the USKA under the name HB9SCBO.
Overview of licence-exempt radio services
| CB (Citizens’ Band) — 40 channels 26.965–27.405 MHz; AM/FM 4 W, SSB 12 W. Power amplifiers prohibited. |
| LPD/PMR — LPD 433/434 MHz: 69 channels, 10 mW; PMR-446: 8 channels, 500 mW. |
| Scanners / search receivers — receivers only |
⚠️ Prohibited in Switzerland: Freenet 149 MHz (DE) and GMRS/FRS 462–467 MHz (USA).
CB radio vs. amateur radio
| CB radio | Amateur radio |
|---|---|
| Specific frequencies freely available | Internationally regulated radio service — treaties with 193 countries |
| Call sign freely selectable | Call signs in accordance with international standards (ITU) |
| Self-regulation | Clear international procedures for calling and handing over the microphone |
| No restrictions on the content of radio traffic | Clear rules on permitted content |
| Anyone who owns a compliant device may use the radio | Certificate of proficiency (OFCOM examination) required |
| Only certain commercial devices are permitted | DIY transmitters are permitted |
| Limited transmit power | High transmit power possible (HB9 up to 1 kW) |
| Image: Amateur radio | Image: systemically important radio service (emergency radio, training in HF technology) |
Further links
- OFCOM — Citizens’ Band (CB) radio
- HB9SCBO — Swiss CB Organisation
- SCBO downloads — Information sheet ‘Radio in Switzerland’, regional code suffix map