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

Looking to learn more about the phone area codes for Idaho? Whether you're a resident, business owner, or researcher, this comprehensive guide 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 – 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. To prevent number exhaustion, 986 was implemented across the state.

Cities and Regions Covered by Idaho Area Codes

Since 986 is an overlay, all Idaho cities are served by both codes. 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

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

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 learn more about virtual phone numbers through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

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

Get your Idaho business phone number 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 solutions for Idaho businesses.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Use reverse phone lookup tools to get details on unknown callers:

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 website 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?

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?

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

Understanding the 208 and 986 codes helps you manage calls, run a business, and stay safe from spam.

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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