208 & 986 Explained

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

Trying to understand the area codes in Idaho? 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 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

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was created in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). In 2017, the state adopted 986 to ensure number availability.

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

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

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

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

Customers often prefer to engage with numbers that appear local or familiar.

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 VoIP services in Idaho.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

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

These tools help identify robocalls, telemarketers, or legitimate users.

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 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 Idaho area code map 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?

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

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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208 & 986 EXPLAINED

208 & 986 Explained