Peru. Within the framework of World Amateur Radio Day, which is commemorated every April 18, the Ministry of Transport and Communications, MTC, highlights the commitment and solidarity of the country's radio amateurs, who play a fundamental role in strengthening communications in emergency situations and contributing to the State's efforts to protect citizens.
Radio amateurs are authorized operators who broadcast and receive radio signals in assigned frequency bands. Their work becomes crucial during emergencies such as earthquakes, tsunamis or floods, when conventional networks can be affected. Emblematic examples of their valuable participation occurred during the earthquake in Arequipa in 2001 and the Pisco earthquake in 2007, where their support made it possible to transmit alerts and key information to the population and the authorities.
According to the MTC's General Directorate of Telecommunications Authorizations (DGAT), as of April 15, 2025, there are 603 radio amateurs with valid authorization in the country. Lima concentrates the largest number (431), followed by Arequipa (35), Ancash (25), Callao (24) and La Libertad (19).
The MTC highlights that this activity represents a valuable combination of technology, technical knowledge and vocation for service. It is carried out on a voluntary and non-profit basis, and constitutes an important complement to the State's capacities to respond to emergencies.
To operate legally, interested parties must obtain an authorization from the MTC. The procedure, in charge of the DGAT, is agile, free and has a validity of five years, with a maximum period of attention of 30 business days.
