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, our detailed post will cover everything you need to know about the 208 and 986 codes.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

There are two main area codes in Idaho:

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

The 208 area code was created in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). 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. You’ll find these area codes in:

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

The rise in mobile phones, VoIP lines, and business numbers led to a surge in number allocation. 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

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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 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?:

Stay protected and informed with call screening apps.

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

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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?

Idaho was running out of 208 numbers, so 986 was introduced statewide

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?

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

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

Idaho Area Codes