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

Looking to learn more about the Idaho area codes? Whether you're a resident, business owner, or researcher, our detailed post 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 – An overlay to accommodate growing demand

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was one of the earliest codes in the U.S.. In 2017, the state adopted 986 to ensure number availability.

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

From urban centers to rural counties, all residents share website 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? Get a local Idaho number without the cost of a physical office.

Check out learn more about virtual phone numbers through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Whether you’re starting a business in Boise or serving clients across the Pacific Northwest, having a local number can build trust.

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 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

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?

To avoid number exhaustion, the 986 overlay was created in 2017

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?

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

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.

Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

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LOCAL & VIRTUAL NUMBERS GUIDE

Local & Virtual Numbers Guide