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GOVERNMENT OF JAMAICA
Opening Hours: Mon – Thur 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Fri 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Find answers to common queries about our services and regulations.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Jamaica’s radio spectrum network and licensing process.
The Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) is the government agency responsible for monitoring and regulating Jamaica’s radio spectrum network. It authorizes and licenses operators to use the spectrum and provides certifications and authorizations for various radio-related activities.
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The SMA provides certifications and authorizations such as the Certificate of Competence in Radio Telephony, Radio Technician Certificate, Type Approval Certificate for imported radio equipment, and spectrum authorizations for islandwide broadcasters. We also provide spectrum license for the follwoing services, martime radio service, land mobile radio service, fixed service, aeronautical service, satellite services and more.
The SMA proudly operates from its head office located at 13-19 Harbour Street in Kingston, Jamaica, a strategic hub for our dynamic operations. Additionally, we enhance our accessibility and service offerings with a dedicated office at the Montego Bay Convention Center.
If you still have questions about Jamaica’s radio spectrum network, licensing process, or any related topics, please feel free to contact us.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Jamaica’s radio spectrum network and licensing process.
In Jamaica, anyone using the radio frequency spectrum, unless otherwise stated, needs a spectrum license according to the Telecommunications Act 2000, and applications are accepted from both manufacturers of equipment/authorized institutions and individual users for specific equipment.
To obtain your spectrum license, confidently take the first step by signing up for our E-licensing platform. Once registered, you can seamlessly submit your application for the required license type.
Absolutely! You can confidently submit your payment through our secure E-licensing platform. Additionally, we offer a variety of alternative payment options to ensure your convenience.
The licensing process is crucial and varies in duration based on the specific license type you apply for. This variance is designed to ensure that each application receives the attention it deserves, accommodating the unique requirements associated with different licenses.
License durations can vary based on their type, ensuring that each specific use case is adequately addressed. From short-term permits to long-term licenses, each is designed to meet distinct needs and regulatory requirements.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Jamaica’s radio spectrum network and licensing process.
Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is the disruption of radio signals by unwanted electromagnetic radiation, leading to degraded performance or loss of information in a radio communication system
RF interference, or the disruption of radio signals, can stem from both natural and man-made sources, including other electronic devices, weather phenomena, and even the design of electronic equipment.
RFI is a disruptive phenomenon where unwanted radio signals interfere with electronic devices, impacting their normal operation. It’s like electronic static, causing poor performance, signal loss, and malfunctions.
The SMA spectrum engineering team is fully equipped to tackle interference cases, using our advanced spectrum analyzers, we will promptly detect the disruptive signal and implement effective measures to eliminate it. Our expertise ensures that we will restore optimal functioning and maintain the integrity of our communication systems.
Anyone is empowered to report an RF interference case to the SMA. It’s a crucial step in maintaining a clear communication environment, and your voice matters. By reporting these incidents, you contribute to the resolution of interference issues, ensuring that communication systems operate smoothly for everyone.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Jamaica’s radio spectrum network and licensing process.
A type approval certificate is an official document stating that a product, like a vehicle or radio equipment, meets necessary technical, safety, and regulatory requirements before it can be sold or used in a specific region
A type approval certificate verifies that a radio equipment device, meets necessary technical, safety, and regulatory requirements before it can be sold or used in a specific region
To obtain a Type Approval Certification, you need to submit an application to the spectrum management authority and meet the necessary requirements.
An RF (Radio Frequency) conformity report is a document that demonstrates a product’s compliance with relevant radio frequency regulations, ensuring it operates safely and without causing harmful interference.
Non-type approved radio communication equipment cannot be used, imported, distributed, sold, or connected to the public telecommunications network, and penalties may apply for violations of these regulations.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Jamaica’s radio spectrum network and licensing process.
The National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT) 2024 for Jamaica (Region 2) designates the 57–64 GHz range for radiolocation (radar) and fixed/mobile except aeronautical services—typically secondary to primary fixed/mobile use. This aligns with ITU Region 2 allocations, confirming radar is permitted in that band for radiolocation applications.
Jamaica recognizes FCC §15.255 limits (~≤14 dBm peak, ≤23% duty) or EU equivalents as default standards.
The 57–64 GHz band is allocated for radiolocation in Jamaica. Technical compliance should follow internationally recognized standards, such as FCC §15.255 limits (approximately ≤14 dBm peak EIRP and ≤23% duty cycle) or equivalent EU specifications. The regulatory process involves obtaining Type Approval through the Spectrum Management Authority’s e-licensing system, which requires internationally recognized test reports, submission of one sample device, and payment of a fee (approximately USD 350). No ongoing license is required after approval. In-cabin radar sensors, such as those used for child-presence detection, are permitted under this allocation, provided they meet compliance requirements and are clearly identified as in-cabin radiolocation devices in the Type Approval application.
Since radiolocation in the 57–64 GHz band is permitted in Jamaica, radar modules intended for in-cabin applications—such as child-presence detection—are generally allowed, provided they meet technical compliance requirements. The Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) treats in-vehicle radar as type-approved radiolocation equipment. To implement such devices, manufacturers should ensure compliance with recognized standards (e.g., FCC/EU power and duty-cycle limits), obtain Type Approval from SMA, and clearly indicate in the application that the device is intended for in-cabin radiolocation.
The Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) Band Planning page primarily highlights the 2.4 GHz (2400–2483.5 MHz) and 5.8 GHz (5725–5850 MHz) bands as designated for license-exempt Wi-Fi use in Jamaica. However, the Jamaica National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT) 2024 also includes additional allocations in the 5150–5250 MHz, 5250–5350 MHz, and 5470–5725 MHz bands. These allocations are in accordance with ITU Resolution 229 (Rev. WRC-23), referenced under footnote 5.446A, and are intended for Wireless Access Systems (WAS), including Radio Local Area Networks (RLANs).
The 5.725–5.850 GHz band is officially designated as license-exempt for Wi-Fi use throughout Jamaica, as outlined in the Spectrum Management Authority’s document Technical and Operational Rules for Radio Communication Equipment Using the Licence-Exempt Bands. This allocation applies nationwide, covering both urban areas such as the Kingston Metropolitan Region and rural locations. The band supports all types of Wi-Fi deployments, including indoor and outdoor use. Devices operating in this band may transmit at a maximum power level of 0.75 Watts with a minimum bandwidth of 1 MHz. Operation is permitted on a no-interference, no-protection basis, meaning users cannot claim protection from interference and must avoid causing harmful interference to other services. Additionally, all devices must be type-approved by the SMA before use.
Jamaica follows its own national regulations via the Spectrum Management Authority (SMA), not strictly CE or FCC standards. UHF allocations in Jamaica include bands such as 902–928 MHz, which are designated for license-exempt use. You can view the full regulation in the National Frequency Allocation Table 2024 (NFAT) and the Technical Rules for Licence-Exempt Bands.
Wi-Fi 7 is not explicitly listed in Jamaica’s National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT), but it operates within bands that are already designated for license-exempt use, such as 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and potentially 6 GHz in the future. The current allocations include 2.4–2.4835 GHz for the 2.4 GHz band and 5.725–5.850 GHz for the 5 GHz band. The 6 GHz band has not yet been confirmed for license-exempt use in Jamaica. For detailed information, refer to the NFAT 2024 and the Licence-Exempt Spectrum Rules.
5G NR is permitted in Jamaica, as the Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) has allocated spectrum for IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications), which includes 5G services. For FR1 (Sub-6 GHz), commonly used bands include n1 (2100 MHz), n3 (1800 MHz), n7 (2600 MHz), n28 (700 MHz), and n78 (3300–3800 MHz). For FR2 (mmWave), Jamaica has not yet confirmed active use of bands such as n257, n258, and n260, although these are globally recognized for 5G NR. For official details, refer to the NFAT 2024 and Domestic Mobile Licensing Information.
Under the current regulations governing licence-exempt frequency bands in Jamaica, the UNII-1 band (5180–5240 MHz) is not designated as licence-exempt. The bands currently authorized for licence-exempt operation are 902–928 MHz, 2.4–2.4835 GHz, and 5.725–5.850 GHz (UNII-3). While the referenced document outlines the existing regulatory framework, the Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) is reviewing the licence-exempt spectrum rules, including the potential addition of new bands. Until these revisions are finalized and published, UNII-1 remains a licensed band and is not permitted for licence-exempt use in Jamaica
There is no regulatory distinction between in-vehicle and other types of 5GHz usage. All RF transmissions, regardless of context, are subject to the same spectrum management rules and licensing requirements.
This may be due to manufacturer-specific firmware configurations that disable certain bands based on regional regulatory settings. Some manufacturers may restrict UNII-1 operation in Jamaica due to its current non-licence-exempt status, while others may not enforce such limitations.
Labelling of radio frequency devices/equipment is not currently enforced by the Spectrum Management Authority (SMA). However, this position is subject to change in response to the introduction of applicable laws, regulations, or policy updates that may come into effect in the future. Should any such changes occur, the SMA will promptly notify you of the updated requirements and its revised position.
