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

Are you curious about the area codes in Idaho? 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 – Established in 1947, it's Idaho’s oldest code
986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay

The 208 area code was one of read more the earliest codes in the U.S.. 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. Key locations with these codes are:

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? A virtual phone number with an Idaho area code is your best option.

Check out get a virtual number through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Area codes are a critical part of your brand presence.

Idaho local business number solutions to build instant credibility.

VoIP and Idaho Area Codes

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

Explore VoIP services in Idaho.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Want to verify who’s behind an Idaho number?:

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

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?

You can keep your number; only new numbers may receive 986

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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