IDAHO AREA CODES

Idaho Area Codes

Idaho Area Codes

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Complete Guide to Idaho Area Codes: 208, 986 & Local Number Solutions

Idaho Area Code Map

Are you curious about the area codes in Idaho? If you're dealing with VoIP systems, virtual numbers, or just receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the 208 and 986 codes.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

Only two area codes cover the entire state of Idaho:

  • 208 – One of the original North American area codes
  • 986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was created in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). Due to increased demand, especially with mobile devices and VoIP services, the 986 overlay was added in 2017.

Cities and Regions Covered by Idaho Area Codes

Since 986 is an overlay, all Idaho cities are served by both codes. Key locations with these codes are:

  1. Boise
  2. Idaho Falls
  3. Coeur d’Alene
  4. Twin Falls
  5. Nampa
  6. Pocatello

Smaller towns and rural communities also share these codes, thanks to the statewide overlay.

Why Idaho Added the 986 Area Code

By the early 2010s, projections showed Idaho’s 208 area code was running out of available phone numbers. The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) and the Federal Communications Commission approved an all-services overlay with 986 in 2015, effective statewide by 2017.

How the Overlay Works

Rather than assigning a new area code to a specific region, the overlay allows both codes to more info be used everywhere in Idaho.

Impact on Dialing

  • 10-digit dialing became mandatory statewide
  • Existing 208 numbers remained unchanged
  • New numbers may receive the 986 code

Virtual Phone Numbers in Idaho

Need a local Idaho presence without being physically located there? A virtual phone number with an Idaho area code is your best option.

Check out learn more about virtual phone numbers through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Area codes are a critical part of your brand presence.

Start with a professional number today to build instant credibility.

VoIP and Idaho Area Codes

Business VoIP plans offer benefits like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, IVR, and CRM integrations.

Explore Idaho virtual voice services.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Ever received a suspicious call from a 208 or 986 number?:

Don't return missed calls blindly—verify them first.

Watch: How Area Codes Are Managed

Watch this short YouTube explainer on how area codes like Idaho’s are planned, approved, and rolled out nationally.

Idaho Area Code Lookup Resources

Modern Business Calling in Idaho

A modern business phone system provides call routing, auto attendants, voicemail, and performance analytics.

Visit Bling Cloud phone solution to explore all features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What area codes are used in Idaho?

The state of Idaho is served by area codes 208 and 986

Why was the 986 area code added to Idaho?

986 was added as an overlay to 208 due to the growing demand for phone numbers

Do I need to change my number if I live in Idaho?

You can keep your number; only new numbers may receive 986

Can I get a virtual phone number with an Idaho area code?

Yes, you can choose between 208 and 986 for your virtual number

Are Idaho area codes affected by spam or robocalls?

Like most area codes, 208 and 986 may be spoofed by robocallers

Final Thoughts on Idaho Area Codes

Understanding the 208 and 986 codes helps you manage calls, run a business, and stay safe from spam.

Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

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