The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued draft Radio Based Services (RBS) Licensing Regulations, 2026, proposing 10-year licence terms, online applications and decisions within 15 working days for complete applications, while also tightening requirements on eligibility, equipment, and compliance. The draft is open for public comment.
The proposed framework covers four licence categories: private radio networks, aircraft mobile stations, maritime mobile stations and amateur radio operators, including junior operators. It aims to standardise licensing for services such as wireless networks, trunking systems, microwave links, telemetry, weather radars and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems.
Applications would be submitted through the PTA’s online system. Private radio network applicants must first obtain a frequency-spectrum assignment through the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB). The PTA would check applications within seven working days and notify applicants of deficiencies, which must be addressed within 15 days. Applications could be returned for correction up to three times.
Licences would generally remain valid for 10 years, while junior amateur radio licences would last five years. Renewals must be sought at least three months before expiry, or six months in advance where spectrum revalidation is required.
The proposed fees include a non-refundable Rs 5,000 processing charge and, where applicable, a Rs 10,000 initial licence fee. Amateur radio licences would cost Rs 2,000, while junior licences would be free. Aircraft and maritime mobile station licences would cost Rs 100,000, with an additional Rs 250,000 for an Inmarsat terminal licence. Annual private-network charges would depend on factors including frequency band, bandwidth, equipment power and location. The regulations differentiate fees between urban, suburban, and rural areas, imposing higher charges in more urbanised regions.
The draft also requires radio equipment to have type approval, subject to specified exemptions, and requires licensees to comply with authorised frequencies and technical limits. The PTA could refuse licences on national security grounds and inspect equipment, including without prior notice in cases involving suspected harmful interference, unauthorised spectrum use or security threats.
Amateur radio applicants would need to be at least 18, hold valid Pakistan Amateur Radio Society membership and provide police clearance. Applicants aged 14 to under 18 could apply for junior licences with sponsorship and parental or guardian consent.
Existing licensees would have six months after the regulations take effect to register their licence details online without charge. Their current licences would remain valid under existing terms until expiry.
