If you're operating in the 144-148 MHz (2m) band, the US FCC "Uncle Charlie" thinks you need at least an Amateur Technician class license.
Put another way: YES, absolutely, positively an Amateur license (Technician) is required!
Study, get your Tech, then help your friends study and do the same. The test is not hard, nor costly, and single band radios and antennas are reasonably priced.