Citizens may only use a CB radio that's certified by the FCC. Certified radios bear the FCC seal on them, and are limited to 4 watts of carrier power if using amplitude modulation broadcasting, or 12 watts peak envelope power if broadcasting on a single sideband radio. Making alterations to a CB voids FCC approval, and regulators prohibit the use of add-on components such a linear amplifiers to boost the power of their signals. Broadcasting above specified signal strengths voids an operator's license to broadcast on the Citizens Band.
Operators of portable radios must communicate in plain language that may be understood by everyone listening to that channel. The FCC permits use of "ten codes" and pseudonym handles by channel operators, but all other forms of veiled communication are forbidden. It is illegal to broadcast obscene or profane material using a portable CB radio, and communicating about any form of illegal activity is not allowed. Content that doesn't directly relate to the operator's life or household, such as music or updates about a third party, are prohibited.
The Citizens Band is divided into 40 channels, though channel 9 is always reserved only for emergencies and broadcasting of traveler information.
Any United States citizen may broadcast and communicate on portable CB radios regardless of age. Operators who are foreign dignitaries, representatives of a foreign government or a department administered by a foreign government may not use portable CB radios in the United States. Additionally, eligible citizens who don't follow FCC regulations may be served with a cease-and-desist order that bans their use of portable radios.
Portable CB radio operators are not required to identify themselves when communicating on their radios. The FCC encourages identification, though, using either a CB identifier assigned by the FCC, by a self-generated radio identifier constructed of K, the operator's initials and his home zip code. Using handles or pseudonyms are only allowed if used in conjunction with approved identification methods.