208 & 986 Explained

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

Trying to understand the Idaho area codes? If you're dealing with VoIP systems, virtual numbers, or just receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers, our detailed post 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 – One of the original North American area codes
986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was originally assigned when NANP was introduced in the 1940s. 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

Rather than assigning a new area code to a specific region, the overlay allows both codes to be used everywhere in Idaho.

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 see Idaho virtual number options through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Customers often prefer to engage with numbers that appear local or familiar.

Start with a professional number today to build website 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

Want to verify who’s behind an Idaho 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?

The state of Idaho is served by 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?

Many VoIP providers, including Bling, let you pick an Idaho area code

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

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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208 & 986 EXPLAINED

208 & 986 Explained