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

Are you curious about the Idaho area codes? Whether you're a resident, business owner, or researcher, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about getting a local Idaho number.
Overview of Idaho Area Codes
Only two area Idaho cell phone area codes codes cover the entire state of Idaho:
- 208 – One of the original North American area codes
- 986 – An overlay to accommodate growing demand
The 208 area code was created in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). To prevent number exhaustion, 986 was implemented across the state.
Cities and Regions Covered by Idaho Area Codes
There is no geographical distinction between the two. Key locations with these codes are:
- Boise
- Idaho Falls
- Coeur d’Alene
- Twin Falls
- Nampa
- Pocatello
From urban centers to rural counties, all residents share the 208/986 split.
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
Want to appear local while operating remotely? Get a local Idaho number without the cost of a physical office.
Check out see Idaho virtual number options 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 Idaho virtual voice services.
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
- 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
Never miss a customer call again 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?
The state of Idaho is served by area codes 208 and 986
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?
Yes, you can choose between 208 and 986 for your virtual number
Are Idaho area codes affected by spam or robocalls?
Caller ID lookup can help prevent phone scams in Idaho
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.
For modern communication tools and local numbers, explore Bling’s VoIP and virtual phone number solutions tailored for Idaho businesses and professionals