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

Looking to learn more about the area codes in Idaho? Whether you're a resident, business owner, or researcher, our detailed post will cover everything you need to know about getting a local Idaho number.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

Idaho is primarily served by two area codes:

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 originally assigned when NANP was introduced in the 1940s. In 2017, the state adopted 986 to ensure number availability.

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 and rural communities also share these codes, thanks to the statewide overlay.

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

Overlays are the modern solution to area code exhaustion and have become standard in many U.S. states.

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

Want to appear local while operating remotely? 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

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

Business VoIP plans offer benefits like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, IVR, and CRM integrations.

Explore VoIP solutions for Idaho businesses.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Want to verify who’s behind an Idaho 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’s business 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?

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

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?

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

Are Idaho area codes affected by spam or robocalls?

Caller ID lookup read more can help prevent phone scams in Idaho

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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LOCAL & VIRTUAL NUMBERS GUIDE

Local & Virtual Numbers Guide