Beginner Police Scanner – Works Out of the Box, No Programming
Beginner Police Scanner – Works Out of the Box, No Programming
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Never used a scanner before? Start here. This is the Baofeng UV-5R handheld, programmed by hand to your zip code before it ships. No computer, no programming cable, no CHIRP software, no frequency research. Turn it on and press scan.
Why this is the easy first scanner
- Zero setup. The single biggest reason people give up on scanners is programming them. We do that part for you.
- No license and no technical background needed. Listening requires neither.
- Your actual area, not a generic preset. Local police, fire, EMS, and weather channels for your zip code.
- Simple controls. If you can use a flashlight, you can use this.
Specifications
- 128 channels, 50 CTCSS and 104 DCS codes
- Dual-band display, dual-standby, A/B band independent operation
- High/Low TX power selectable, busy channel lock-out (BCLO)
- Channel step: 2.5/5/6.25/10/12.5 KHz
- Tri-color backlight, adjustable VOX, large LCD display
- Emergency alert (25/12.5 KHz switchable), built-in LED flashlight
- Frequency range: 144-148 MHz, 420-450 MHz
IMPORTANT: Your scanner is programmed to the zip code you have it shipped to. Ordering for a different location? Note it at checkout.
New to this? Read What Can You Hear on a Police Scanner? or send us your zip code and we'll tell you what's receivable in your area.
How the zip code programming works
How the zip code programming works
After you order, we program this radio by hand to the zip code you're shipping to — loading the local police, fire, EMS, weather, and public safety frequencies available in that area. It arrives channel-ready. No computer, no programming cable, and no CHIRP software.
Need it programmed for a different area? Leave the zip code in your order notes at checkout.
Will it work in my area?
Will it work in my area?
Most US counties still run analog on at least some public safety channels, but a growing number have moved to encrypted or digital P25 systems that an analog scanner cannot receive.
Send us your zip code before you order and we'll tell you honestly what's receivable where you live. We'd rather turn down a sale than ship you a radio that can't hear your county.
Is this legal? Do I need a license?
Is this legal? Do I need a license?
Owning and listening to a police scanner is legal in almost every US state, because these are unencrypted public airwaves, and no FCC license is required to listen. A small number of states restrict scanner use inside a moving vehicle or while committing another crime — check your state's rules before mobile use. This is general information, not legal advice.
Shipping & returns
Shipping & returns
Free shipping anywhere in the United States. Each radio is programmed individually after your order comes in, then shipped.
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Programmed To Your Zip Code
Local police, fire, and EMS frequencies loaded before it ships.
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Works Out Of The Box
No computer, no cable, no CHIRP software.
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Free US Shipping
Every order ships free within the United States.
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Not Sure This Will Hear Your Area?
Send us your zip code and we'll tell you honestly what a scanner picks up where you live — before you spend a dollar.