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

Are you curious about the phone area codes for Idaho? Whether you're a resident, business owner, or researcher, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about getting a local Idaho number.
Overview of Idaho Area Codes
Idaho is primarily served by two area codes:
- 208 – Established in 1947, it's Idaho’s oldest code
- 986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay
The 208 area code 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:
- Boise
- Idaho Falls
- Coeur d’Alene
- Twin Falls
- Nampa
- Pocatello
From urban centers to rural counties, all residents share the 208/986 split.
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? Get a local Idaho number without the cost of a physical office.
Check out see Idaho virtual number options through Bling.
Using Idaho Numbers for Business
Customers often prefer to engage with numbers that appear local or familiar.
Idaho local business number solutions 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 VoIP solutions for Idaho businesses.
Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection
Use reverse phone lookup tools to get details on unknown callers:
Stay protected and informed with call screening apps.
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
- Wikipedia: Idaho Area Codes
- FCC: Area Code Relief
- NANPA Idaho Area Code Map
- TrueCaller for spam lookup
- YouTube: How Area Codes Work
Modern Business Calling in Idaho
Never miss a customer call again with call management tools tailored for Idaho businesses.
Visit AI-powered phone system to explore all features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What area codes are used in Idaho?
Idaho uses two 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?
There’s no need to change your number due click here to the overlay
Can I get a virtual phone number with an Idaho area code?
Virtual numbers allow Idaho presence without a physical office
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
Whether you’re getting a new line, switching to VoIP, or need a local presence, Idaho’s telecom landscape is modern and accessible.
Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere
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