A push to talk (PTT) user interface for a wireless communications device utilizes a single all contacts database. The database is updated and utilized by the user in either a “PTT contacts” list screen or in an “all contacts” list screen. These screens are used for direct PTT calls, group PTT calls, alert calls, and standard cellular voice calls. Push to talk contacts are defined by the user and are stored on the wireless device. A direct PTT call allows a user to place a PTT call to another party or to a group with more than one party. The user can create a group “ad hoc” PTT call by selecting multiple contacts from the PTT contacts list screen. The PTT contact screen also is utilized to send an “alert” message to an individual with a PTT contact number. The alert message is either a brief text message or simply an “Alert” without text. During a PTT call, the user can view a variety of screens to add another party to the active PTT call and to save or edit participant information. When a user has missed a group call, the user can join the call late by using a call history list. During an active PTT call, the wireless communications device provides notification of other incoming PTT calls, and allows the user to “answer”, i.e., switch, to the new call.