208 & 986 Explained

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

Trying to understand the area codes in Idaho? Whether you live in Boise, own a company in Coeur d'Alene, or are just curious, this in-depth article will cover everything you need to know about the 208 and 986 codes.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

Only two area codes cover the entire state of Idaho:

208 – Established in 1947, it's Idaho’s oldest code
986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was created in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). 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

Since 986 is an overlay, all Idaho cities are served by both codes. Key locations with these codes are:

Boise
Idaho Falls
Coeur d’Alene
Twin Falls
Nampa
Pocatello

Smaller towns area code for Idaho 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

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 see Idaho virtual number options 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

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

Explore VoIP services in Idaho.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Ever received a suspicious call from a 208 or 986 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?

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

Whether you’re getting a new line, switching to VoIP, or need a local presence, Idaho’s telecom landscape is modern and accessible.

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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208 & 986 EXPLAINED

208 & 986 Explained