Are you looking for a serious upgrade from handheld walkie-talkies? The Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio is a 40-watt powerhouse designed for long-range communication when cell service fails. Whether you need reliable comms for your overlanding rig, farm, RV, or a home base station, the RA87 delivers near-maximum legal GMRS power in a compact, durable package.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover what GMRS is, the license you need, and why the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio is one of the best mobile radios for both car and home use.
What is GMRS Radio Service? Retevis RA87 Overview
GMRS stands for General Mobile Radio Service. It is a licensed UHF radio service regulated by the FCC in the United States.
Unlike FRS (Family Radio Service) walkie-talkies that are limited to 2 watts, GMRS allows for much higher power (up to 50 watts on certain channels) and the use of external antennas and repeaters.
- Frequency: UHF 462-467 MHz – excellent for vehicles and urban areas with obstacles
- Range: 5 to 20+ miles depending on terrain, antenna, and repeater access
- Compatibility: Works directly with all FRS and GMRS handheld radios
- Use Cases: Overlanding convoys, farm operations, off-roading, RV caravans, emergency preparedness, and family communication
This is why a mobile unit like the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio is so valuable – it gives you the power and range that a 2W handheld simply cannot match.
Do You Need a License for the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio?
Yes, you need a GMRS license to legally operate (transmit) the Retevis RA87.
The good news: It is the easiest license in radio.
- No Test Required: You just apply and pay online.
- Cost: $35 for 10 years (via FCC ULS as of 2026).
- Family Coverage: One license covers your entire immediate family – spouse, children, parents, and in-laws.
- How to Get It: Apply on the FCC Universal Licensing System. You will receive your call sign (like WRAB123) by email in 1-2 business days.
The Retevis RA87 operates on GMRS frequencies only (USA Use Only), so you must have your GMRS call sign before transmitting. You can listen without a license.
Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio: Full Features and Specs
1. Extreme 40-Watt Long Range Power
The standout feature of the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio. Most mobile GMRS radios are 15W-20W. The RA87 pushes 40W on High Power and 5W on Low Power. In open terrain with a quality antenna like a Tram 1486, users report up to 20km simplex range and even further via repeaters. Use low power for close convoy chatter to save battery and reduce heat.
2. 30 Channels: 22 GMRS Plus 8 Repeater Channels
You get all 22 standard GMRS channels plus 8 dedicated repeater channels (RP15-RP22). This is critical. Repeaters are tall towers on mountains or buildings that rebroadcast your signal for 50+ mile regional coverage. The RA87 is repeater-ready and compatible with myGMRS networks.
3. Perfect for Car and Home Use
This is where the RA87 beats handhelds. It is truly designed for both car and home use.
For Your Car, Truck, RV, or Overland Rig:
- Compact size at 173 x 141 x 41mm – fits in any vehicle
- Heavy-duty aluminum chassis dissipates heat during heavy transmissions
- Includes mobile mounting bracket, DC power cable with fuse, and programmable keypad hand mic
- 13.8V DC – runs directly off your vehicle battery
- Programmable mic lets you change channels and enter DTMF codes without looking away from the road
For Home Use as a Base Station:
- With a 13.8V 10A power supply and a GMRS base antenna, it becomes a powerful home base station
- DIY Repeater Function: Two RA87 units can be connected with a data cable to create a simple repeater to extend range across your property
- 200 memory channels plus dual standby and dual display to monitor two frequencies at once
- NOAA Weather Alert for emergency preparedness
4. Advanced Privacy and Audio Features
- 260 CTCSS/DCS Codes: Creates over 5,720 privacy combinations
- Voice Companding: Makes voice audio clearer and louder
- Wide and narrow bandwidth selectable
- ANI, DTMF, MSK, and 2-Tone encode/decode for fleet management
- LCD display with adjustable backlight colors and dual-band display
Technical Specifications of Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio
| Model | Retevis RA87 (FCC ID: 2A3OORA87) |
| Power Output | 40W High / 5W Low |
| Channels | 22 GMRS + 8 Repeater + 200 Memory Channels |
| Privacy Codes | 260 CTCSS/DCS |
| Voltage | 13.8V DC |
| Connector | SO-239 (UHF Female) |
| Dimensions | 173 x 141 x 41mm |
Why Choose the RA87 Over Midland?
Midland radios like the MXT275 (15W) and MXT575 (50W) are great, but the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio gives you more flexibility for the price. At $149.95 retail for true 40W, with open programming via CHIRP, direct mic programming, and easy base station conversion, it offers the best value for both car and home use.
Final Verdict: Is the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio Worth It?
If you are an overlander, farmer, RVer, or prepper who needs communication that works beyond cell range, the answer is yes. The Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio hits the sweet spot of high power, repeater capability, vehicle durability, and home base station versatility.
Get your $35 GMRS license, pair it with a good 6dB gain antenna, and you have a communication system that will last a decade.
What’s in the Box: RA87 Radio Body, Keypad Hand Mic, Mounting Bracket, DC Power Cable with Fuse, Programming Cable, Screw Pack, User Manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Retevis RA87 without a license?
You can listen to GMRS channels and NOAA weather without a license. Transmitting requires a valid FCC GMRS license. No test is needed.
What is the real range of the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio?
Simplex (radio-to-radio) range is 3-7 miles in suburbs and up to 12+ miles in open desert. With a repeater, range can be 50+ miles with the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio.
Can I use the RA87 at home?
Yes. You need a 13.8V 10A power supply and a GMRS base antenna. Many users install the Retevis RA87 GMRS Mobile Radio in a garage or shack as a home base station.
Does the RA87 work with my handheld radios?
Yes. It is fully compatible with any FRS or GMRS handheld radio on channels 1-22, including Midland, Baofeng, and Retevis handhelds.
If you instead have an interest in getting your ham radio license, I wrote this article to make it very easy for you. Far more capabilities than GMRS!