Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has proposed a new licensing framework for radio-based communication services, including licences valid for up to 10 years, online application processing and a defined timeline for communicating decisions. The proposals are included in the draft Radio Based Services (RBS) Licensing Regulations, 2026, which have been circulated for public comments. The framework covers private radio networks, aircraft mobile stations, maritime mobile stations and amateur radio operators, including a separate category for junior operators. It aims to establish standardised procedures for licensing wireless communication systems, microwave links, telemetry, weather radars and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems.
Under the proposed rules, applicants would submit applications electronically through PTA’s online system. Applicants seeking licences for private radio networks would first need to obtain radio-frequency spectrum assignment through the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) portal before applying to PTA. The authority would examine applications for completeness within seven working days and inform applicants of any missing information or documents. Applicants would have 15 days to address identified deficiencies, and an application could be returned for corrections no more than three times. Once an application is complete and all required formalities have been fulfilled, PTA would communicate its decision within 15 working days, subject to the applicable spectrum assignment requirements.
The draft proposes a general licence validity period of 10 years, while junior amateur radio licences would remain valid for five years. Applicants seeking renewal would need to apply at least three months before expiry, while cases involving spectrum revalidation would require applications at least six months before expiry. The proposed fee structure includes a non-refundable application processing fee of Rs. 5,000 and an initial licence fee of Rs. 10,000 where applicable. Amateur radio licences would cost Rs. 2,000 for 10 years, while junior licences would be issued without a licence fee. Aircraft and maritime mobile station licences would each carry a proposed fee of Rs. 100,000 for the full licence term. An additional Rs. 250,000 would apply to an Inmarsat terminal installed aboard an aircraft or vessel. Annual charges for private radio networks would be calculated using a formula that considers factors such as frequency band, bandwidth, equipment power and location.
The proposed regulations would also make type approval mandatory for radio equipment, subject to specified exemptions for equipment installed aboard aircraft or vessels and certified by relevant aviation or maritime authorities. Licensees would be required to operate within their authorised frequencies, power limits and technical parameters. PTA would retain the authority to refuse licences on national security grounds and inspect licensed equipment where necessary, including without prior notice in specified cases involving suspected harmful interference, unauthorised spectrum use or national security concerns. Amateur radio applicants would generally need to be at least 18 years old, hold valid membership of the Pakistan Amateur Radio Society and provide a police clearance certificate. Applicants aged 14 to under 18 could qualify for junior licences with sponsorship and parental or institutional consent. Existing licensees would have six months from the regulations taking effect to register their licence details through PTA’s online system without a registration fee, while their current licences would remain valid under existing terms until expiry. The proposals remain at the draft stage and may be revised following consultation.
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