Radio Etiquette: 10 Important Things You Should Remember

Radio Etiquette Guide

In a world ruled by smartphones, it’s incredible that two-way radios have remained essential for over 80 years. Two-way radios continue to be vital tools for first responders, security teams, warehouse supervisors, and many others. If your job requires using a radio, it’s crucial to know that operating a walkie talkie is very different from using a phone. Because you can’t speak and listen simultaneously, proper radio etiquette is key for clear, professional communication.

Here are 10 critical radio etiquette tips to help you sound confident and maintain excellent communication with your team.

1. Learn the Radio Lingo

The most important part of good radio etiquette is using the correct terminology. Everyday words don’t always transmit clearly over radio waves, so a shared set of phrases ensures everyone understands each other.

Here are some essential walkie talkie codes you should know:

• Affirmative – Yes
• Negative – No
• Roger or Roger That – Message received and understood
• Stand By – Please wait
• Over – End of your transmission; other party can speak
• Wilco – Will comply with instructions
• Copy – I understand your message (“Do you copy?”)
• Out – Conversation is complete (“Over and out”)

Learning and using this radio lingo will make your transmissions faster and clearer — and avoid confusion in critical situations.

2. Pause Before You Speak

Always wait a second after pressing the PTT (press-to-talk) button before speaking. This small pause ensures your first words aren’t cut off, avoiding miscommunication.

3. Identify Yourself Clearly

Since walkie talkies usually don’t have caller ID, good radio etiquette is to identify yourself at the start of each conversation. Address the person you’re contacting first, then state your name or call sign if your organization uses one.

4. Keep Messages Short and Concise

Two-way radios are designed for quick, efficient communication. Keep your transmissions brief and focused. If you need to say a lot, use the word “Break” between points to allow the other person to respond if needed.

5. Memorize the NATO Phonetic Alphabet

If you need to spell something out over the radio, use the NATO phonetic alphabet instead of just saying letters. This avoids confusion between similar-sounding letters like “B” and “D.”

For example, “EX” would be transmitted as “Echo X-ray.”

6. Speak Clearly and at a Normal Volume

Avoid shouting or whispering into your radio. Speak normally and clearly, keeping the microphone about 3–5 inches from your mouth. This helps your voice come through crisply to the other party.

7. Wait Your Turn to Speak

Good radio etiquette means waiting for others to finish speaking before you start. Interrupting is discouraged unless it’s an emergency. If you must break into a conversation urgently, say “Break, Break, Break” before your message.

8. Assume Others Are Listening

Remember that two-way radio channels are not private. Assume that anyone nearby can hear your transmissions. Avoid sharing sensitive or confidential information unless you’re on a secure, encrypted channel.

9. Default to English

Unless your workplace specifies otherwise, English is the international language for radio communication. Use English unless you are licensed and authorized to communicate in another language.

10. Perform Regular Equipment Checks

Finally, make regular checks of your radios. Test the battery, range, and clarity before starting work. Proactive equipment checks are a big part of responsible radio etiquette.

Mastering Radio Etiquette Improves Your Communication

It may take a little time and practice, but learning proper radio etiquette will make you a much more effective and professional communicator. If you’re ever unsure about correct radio usage or terminology, don’t hesitate to ask your supervisor or colleagues for help.

King Radios proudly supplies American-made two-way radios and communication equipment trusted by the U.S. military, Forest Service, and National Park Service. Request a competitive price quote from us today and stay connected with confidence.