T-Mobile is the latest US carrier to ask the FCC for a millimeter wave radio test license as it anticipates being able to use 28GHz and 39GHz frequencies when it actually deploys 5G service.

"We have spectrum holdings in the 28GHz and 39GHz bands, which look like they will be made available for 5G use by the FCC," a T-Mobile spokesperson tells Light Reading. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) records indicate that T-Mobile US Inc. likely acquired the millimeter wave (mmWave) licenses through the acquisition of MetroPCS. (See MetroPCS/T-Mobile Wedding Is On.)

Now, as spotted by Fierce Wireless, T-Mobile has applied for a test license for 28GHz and 38GHz indoor and outdoor testing of early 5G gear. The operator has previously said that it expects to start tests in the second half of 2016. (See T-Mobile to Test 5G With Nokia, Ericsson .)

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) applied for a similar license earlier this year. Light Reading understands that Ma Bell is still waiting for that test license to be granted. (See AT&T Wants to Start 5G Tests in Austin.)

— Dan Jones, Mobile Editor, Light Reading