The FCC administers and maintains licenses for AM, FM, LPFM, FM translator and FM booster radio stations. FM radio licenses are available for operators of full power commercial stations, as well as full and low power, noncommercial education stations. A license is required to operate a radio station, and can be obtained by filing an application with the FCC. The commission must approve a proposed radio license assignment prior to the sale of the station. The FCC provides public notice of the filing of all new station, assignment and license renewal applications. This public notice starts a 30-day period for the public to file comments or objections to these applications.
For more information on AM and FM radio broadcasting, please visit the Audio Division website, and the Broadcast Radio Links page.