Matthew:

A radio that covers 2 - 6 MHz in the US would be operatiing on Amateur, marine, and possibly military allocations. To use it on the amateur bands would require you to pass two written tests and a morse code exam. To use it on the marine band would require the purchase of a license but you could only use it while on the water. Luckily though, if it is an emergency our laws allow you to use any frequency "from DC to Daylight" to call for assistance.

Chris
N1NIQ