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What are the rules about indecent or obscene language on amateur radio?

Any such language is prohibited.

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  1. It is all prohibited ✔
  2. The FCC keeps a list of banned words
  3. There is no such rule

Why: Part 97 bans obscene or indecent words or language on the air. There is no official list of words, so hams simply keep it clean.

Huh, didn't know that: The ban is in Part 97.113, the FCC list of prohibited transmissions, along with music and false signals.

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My radio has a clean mouth. It only uses CQ words.
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References

Answer: It is all prohibited. Part 97 bans obscene or indecent words or language on the air. There is no official list of words, so hams simply keep it clean.

  1. 47 CFR 97.113 Prohibited transmissions www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-B/section-97.113
    obscene or indecent words or language
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Ham RadioWhich of these is prohibited for amateur radio operators?Ham RadioWhich kind of one-way transmission is prohibited for amateur stations?Ham RadioWhich agency makes and enforces the rules for amateur radio in the United States?

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