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, our detailed post 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 one of 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

There is no geographical distinction between the two. Major cities include:

Boise
Idaho Falls
Coeur d’Alene
Twin Falls
Nampa
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

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? Using a virtual phone system lets you choose between 208 and 986 with full call routing and SMS features.

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

Business VoIP plans offer benefits like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, IVR, and CRM integrations.

Explore VoIP services in Idaho.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Ever received a suspicious call from a 208 or 986 number?:

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

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?

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?

There’s no need to change your number due 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?

Caller ID lookup can help prevent phone scams in Idaho

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.

For VoIP with Idaho area code 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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