You are correct, but it has never been easier to acquire a license and with a little ARES or RACES training, you can possibly pass through road blocks and get in or out of restricted areas as a emergency communications vehicle. Working with the local and state officials in training also gives you a great advantage of knowledge. Knowledge of their frequencies, PL tones, contingency plans, access to supplies and fuel, as well as who you want to be “friends” with when the SHTF.
Getting a Federal License for a Radio is the same to me as getting a Federal License for a gun.
No thanks. I'll do without both.