MARCS Radio Authentication Deadline Extended

MARCS Radios Need Authenticated

The Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS) is urging Ohio first responder and public safety agencies that use the Multi-Agency Radio Communication System (MARCS) to authenticate all radios. If not, the radios won’t work on the MARCS system beginning this July 1.

Radio Authentication (also known as Link Layer Authentication) is an industry standard in first responder/public safety communications and an increased safety and security measure to protect the emergency communications infrastructure of the MARCS radio system throughout Ohio. Authentication will safeguard against unauthorized people using and listening on the system, and those attempting to disrupt the system. 

The DAS MARCS Program Office has been actively encouraging customers to have their radios authenticated to provide the best and most secure service to everyone since July 1, 2020.

Each radio – base, mobile, and portable – must have Radio Authentication to operate on the MARCS system after December 31, 2025.

Some radios purchased after July 1, 2019, may already have been authenticated.

Radios purchased prior to July 1, 2019, may have the ability to be updated to comply with Radio Authentication, without the need to purchase a new radio.

For those entities who have yet to authenticate their radios, and who go beyond the newly extended deadline, fines will be imposed beginning January 1, 2026. Fines will increase every 30 days if radios remain unauthenticated. 

To start the authentication process, MARCS radio users are urged to contact their radio manufacturer or programming vendor today.

MARCS radio users who haven’t authenticated their radios also are urged to email  MARCSRadioAuthentication@das.ohio.gov explaining your plan to complete the process to authenticate your radios.

Please contact the MARCS Program Office with any questions by emailing MARCSRadioAuthentication@das.ohio.gov or calling 866-OHMARCS (866-646-2727).