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

Looking to learn more about the phone area codes for Idaho? Whether you live in Boise, own a company in Coeur d'Alene, or are just curious, this in-depth article will cover everything you need to know about getting a local Idaho number.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

There are two main area codes in Idaho:

208 – One of the original North American area codes
986 – Used alongside 208 for the same regions

The 208 area code was one of the earliest codes in the U.S.. 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

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

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

An overlay means no one has to change their existing number, but everyone must dial 10 digits.

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? Get a local Idaho number without the cost of a physical office.

Check out get a virtual number through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Area codes are a critical part of your brand presence.

Get your Idaho business phone number 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 Idaho virtual voice services.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Ever received a suspicious call from a 208 or 986 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 AI-powered 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?

You can keep your number; only new numbers may receive 986

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?

Like most area codes, 208 and 986 may be spoofed by robocallers

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.

Get started with a local website Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

Blog

Local & Virtual Numbers Guide