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

Looking to learn more 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 the 208 and 986 codes.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

Idaho is primarily served by two area codes:

208 – One of the original North American area codes
986 – An overlay to accommodate growing demand

The 208 area code was originally assigned when NANP was introduced in the 1940s. 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

Smaller towns and rural communities also share these codes, thanks to the statewide overlay.

Why Idaho Added the 986 Area Code

By the early 2010s, projections showed Idaho business phone solutions 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

Need a local Idaho presence without being physically located there? Using a virtual phone system lets you choose between 208 and 986 with full call routing and SMS features.

Check out learn more about virtual phone numbers 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

Modern VoIP services give you full flexibility to choose your area code, device, and features.

Explore VoIP solutions for Idaho businesses.

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

Never miss a customer call again with call management tools tailored for Idaho businesses.

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?

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 to the overlay

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?

Caller ID lookup can help prevent phone scams in Idaho

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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LOCAL & VIRTUAL NUMBERS GUIDE

Local & Virtual Numbers Guide