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

Are you curious about the phone area codes for Idaho? If you're dealing with VoIP systems, virtual numbers, or just receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers, 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 – One of the original North American area codes
• 986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay

The 208 area code was created in 1947 as part of the North who called me from Idaho area code American Numbering Plan (NANP). 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:

1. Boise
2. Idaho Falls
3. Coeur d’Alene
4. Twin Falls
5. Nampa
6. 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

Need a local Idaho presence without being physically located there? A virtual phone number with an Idaho area code is your best option.

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 instant credibility.

VoIP and Idaho Area Codes

With VoIP, you’re not tied to a physical location.

Explore Idaho virtual voice services.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Ever received a suspicious call from a 208 or 986 number?:

• TrueCaller
• Whitepages
• Nomorobo

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

• Wikipedia: Idaho Area Codes
• FCC: Area Code Relief
• NANPA Idaho Area Code Map
• TrueCaller for spam lookup
• YouTube: How Area Codes Work

Modern Business Calling in Idaho

Businesses can unlock productivity by centralizing communication using a full phone system.

Visit Bling’s business phone system to explore all features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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