IDAHO AREA CODES

Idaho Area Codes

Idaho Area Codes

Blog Article

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

Idaho Area Code Map

Looking to learn more about the Idaho area codes? Whether you're a resident, business owner, or researcher, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about Idaho’s area code history.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

There are two main area codes in Idaho:

  • 208 – The original area code
  • 986 – An overlay to accommodate growing demand

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was originally assigned when NANP was introduced in the 1940s. 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

Both area codes serve the entire state. You’ll find these area codes in:

  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

Overlays are the modern solution to area code exhaustion and have become standard in many U.S. states.

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

Looking to establish business credibility with Idaho customers? A virtual phone number with an Idaho area code is your best option.

Check out see Idaho virtual number options through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Whether you’re starting a business in Boise or serving clients across the Pacific Northwest, having a local number can build trust.

Start with a professional number today to build instant credibility.

VoIP and Idaho Area Codes

Modern VoIP services give you full flexibility to choose your area code, device, and features.

Explore Idaho virtual voice services.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Use reverse phone lookup tools to get details on unknown callers:

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

Businesses can unlock productivity by centralizing communication using a full phone system.

Visit AI-powered phone system to explore all features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What area codes are used in Idaho?

208 and 986 are the two area codes in Idaho, covering all regions

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?

No, existing 208 numbers remained unchanged

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

Many VoIP providers, including Idaho area code map Bling, let you pick an Idaho area code

Are Idaho area codes affected by spam or robocalls?

Caller ID lookup can help prevent phone scams in Idaho

Final Thoughts on Idaho Area Codes

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

For modern communication tools and local numbers, explore Bling’s VoIP and virtual phone number solutions tailored for Idaho businesses and professionals

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