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 area code overlay in Idaho in-depth article will cover everything you need to know about getting a local Idaho number.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

Only two area codes cover the entire state of Idaho:

208 – One of the original North American area codes
986 – Used alongside 208 for the same regions

The 208 area code 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. Key locations with these codes are:

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

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

An overlay means no one has to change their existing number, but everyone must dial 10 digits.

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

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

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

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?

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?

No, existing 208 numbers remained unchanged

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?

Like most area codes, 208 and 986 may be spoofed by robocallers

Final Thoughts on Idaho Area Codes

Idaho’s area codes are more than just numbers—they’re a part of the state’s identity and essential to personal and business communication.

Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

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Idaho Area Codes