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

Trying to understand the area codes in Idaho? Whether you're a resident, business owner, is 986 a new Idaho area code or researcher, our detailed post will cover everything you need to know about Idaho’s area code history.

Overview of Idaho Area Codes

Only two area codes cover the entire state of Idaho:

208 – The original area code
986 – Used alongside 208 for the same regions

The 208 area code 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. You’ll find these area codes in:

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

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? A virtual phone number with an Idaho area code is your best option.

Check out get a virtual number 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

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

Explore VoIP solutions for Idaho businesses.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

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

Don't return missed calls blindly—verify them first.

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

A modern business phone system provides call routing, auto attendants, voicemail, and performance analytics.

Visit Bling’s business phone system 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?

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 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.

Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

Idaho Area Codes