Yep - you are right. I'm obviously not a HAM operator. Looking a the specs, there is nothing that would prevent us from using the radios this way, it's just not legal. Turns out, I've been using GMRS without paying the$25$70 fee as well. Great - Now feds will be knocking.
..I went ahead and ordered a cheapo baofang just to have in the kit. What kind of commitment is the HAM license?
I am sure there are free ones out there but I am using this site to study. HamTestOnline - Ham Radio Exam Courses and Practice Tests
It's only $25 and they guarantee you will pass. Generally 10 hours of study is enough. The test is $15 and depending on the location, they may let you take it several times to try to pass. It will cost you $15 each time and is limited by the number of different exams they have (usually 3) and who is doing the testing.