CBs and HAM radios operate on different frequency bands. So they can not talk to each other.... but I do know of some who "modified" their HAM radios to work on CB freq.
I do not understand how a HAM license expires. It is for life. The only way for it to expire is with your death. Are you a zombie? what was your call sign?
Commercial radio licenses expire. Different radio, different frequencies.
My 4x4 club is about the largest HAM club in the area. We have some 40+ HAMS in the club. We have pretty much given up on the CB (some still have, but just because they have not yet been removed). HAM kills CB hands down. No Morse on the test anymore, so the test is not so bad. Power, range, clarity. Nothing competes. Most do not understand what this does for safety and security on the trail and getting there and back.
That is a silly rule, for license to expire.
They are good for life here
I do not find the HAM all that much more difficult to use than a CB. Set the freq and use the mic! Some HAM radios are more user friendly than others when you get beyond the simple frequency selection!
Your truckers still use CB?
Ours ditched those a generation ago.
Commercial VHF is what they all use here. $50 annual fee and they are good to go.
Where would you recommend a newbie start researching HAM radios for use in the Jeep?
Any recommendations on what to look for or avoid?