RF Exposure Calculator

Our free RF exposure calculator checks your station against the FCC limits in a few minutes. Enter your power, band, mode, feed line, antenna and distances. The page then shows whether you meet the limits for your household and for your neighbors. It also gives the minimum safe distance for each, and it builds a report you can print.

📡 Your Station

Your callsign

Band

Frequency (MHz)

Transmitter power (watts PEP)

Mode

How much of the time you transmit

Feed line

Feed line length (feet)

Antenna

Antenna gain (dBi)

Typical value fills in. Change it if you know yours.

Closest distance to you and your household (feet)

Closest distance to neighbors or the public (feet)

Measure from the nearest part of the antenna to the nearest spot a person can be, such as a window, deck, sidewalk or the property line.

Fill in every box, then click Calculate to see your result.

✅ Your Result

🖨️ Station RF Exposure Evaluation

Station: —Prepared: Method: FCC OET Bulletin 65, limits from 47 CFR §1.1310

Band / MHz	Power & mode	Antenna	Feed line	Avg. power at antenna	You & household (controlled)	Neighbors & public (uncontrolled)

Estimates use the far-field equation with the EPA ground-reflection factor (S = 0.64·P·G ÷ πR²), averaged for mode duty cycle and transmit time. Feed line loss figures are typical values. Results are an estimate for record keeping, not a professional survey.

Evaluated by: ______________________________ Date: ______________

Do Hams Need an RF Exposure Evaluation?

Yes. FCC rules that took effect on May 3, 2021 ended the old blanket exclusion for amateur radio. Now every station must either qualify for an exemption or be evaluated. Stations already on the air had until May 3, 2023 to finish. Likewise, a new or changed station must be checked before it goes on the air. Fortunately, the math is simple for most stations, and this RF exposure calculator does it for you.

How to Use the Results

Add each band and antenna you use to your station report. Then print it and keep it with your station records. You do not file it with the FCC, but it is handy if a neighbor ever asks. If a line shows over the limit, raise or move the antenna, lower your power, or transmit less of the time. After that, run the check again.

How the Calculator Works

The calculator follows the method in FCC OET Bulletin 65 and uses the exposure limits in 47 CFR 1.1310. First, it averages your power for the mode and the share of time you transmit. Next, it subtracts feed line loss and adds antenna gain. Finally, it includes a ground reflection factor, so the results lean to the safe side. For more detail, see the ARRL RF exposure resources.