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 phone area codes for Idaho? If you're dealing with VoIP systems, virtual numbers, or just receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers, this in-depth article will cover everything you need to know about getting a local Idaho number.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

There are two main area codes in Idaho:

  • 208 – The original area code
  • 986 – Used alongside 208 for the same regions

The 208 area code 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

Both area codes serve the entire state. Major cities include:

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

The overlay system eliminates the need for separate area codes in smaller towns.

Why Idaho Added the 986 Area Code

According to FCC reports, Idaho was approaching number exhaustion in the 208 zone. 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

Want to appear local while operating remotely? 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

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

With VoIP, you’re not tied to a physical location.

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

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?

To avoid number exhaustion, the 986 overlay was created in 2017

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, Idaho area codes including 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

Idaho’s area codes are more than just numbers—they’re a part of the state’s identity and essential to personal and business communication.

Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

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