Yes, you really need to be licensed. First, operating high power radio equipment poses certain safety hazards and the licensing process ensures that you know something about radio frequency safety. Second, a transmitter operator needs to know how not to interfere with other users; how to locate and make contact with other users at the appropriate times; and how to adjust and operate the equipment. Third, turning on a radio transmitter is roughly equivalent to turning on a flashlight in a dark room - in other words, you are easy to find. If you operate without a license, you will be caught. This can result in large fines (such as $10,000), jail time and confiscation of your radio equipment. In short, get a license.
http://www.verotelecom.com/blog/industrial_news/do_i_really_need_to_get_a_license.html
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