Radio

The part of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be used for radio communication cannot accommodate everyone who might wish to use this resource. Access is controlled and technical standards are enforced by law. With few exceptions, radio transmissions are permitted only as authorized by licenses.

Since 1934 in the United States, licensing and equipment approval has been the responsibility of the Federal Communications Commission. Similar regulation is the rule in other countries. Technical standards are required by radio regulation. Just as traffic laws improve highway safety, laws and regulations that encourage the fair use of the limited radio spectrum help to avoid conflicts between users.