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

Trying to Idaho phone area code understand the Idaho area codes? Whether you live in Boise, own a company in Coeur d'Alene, or are just curious, this in-depth article will cover everything you need to know about Idaho’s area code history.

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. To prevent number exhaustion, 986 was implemented across the state.

Cities and Regions Covered by Idaho Area Codes

There is no geographical distinction between the two. Key locations with these codes are:

  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

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 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? Get a local Idaho number without the cost of a physical office.

Check out get a virtual number 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

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

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 Bling Cloud phone solution 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?

Idaho was running out of 208 numbers, so 986 was introduced statewide

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?

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

Are Idaho area codes affected by spam or robocalls?

Use tools like TrueCaller, Nomorobo, or Whitepages to check caller ID

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

Report this page