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

Idaho's first how to get Idaho phone number and only area code, 208, was created in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). 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

Both area codes serve the entire state. 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

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

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

Looking to establish business credibility with Idaho customers? A virtual phone number with an Idaho area code is your best option.

Check out learn more about virtual phone numbers through Bling.

Using Idaho Numbers for Business

Whether you’re starting a business in Boise or serving clients across the Pacific Northwest, having a local number can build trust.

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

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 AI-powered 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?

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?

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

Understanding the 208 and 986 codes helps you manage calls, run a business, and stay safe from spam.

Get started with a local Idaho number and stay connected anywhere

208 & 986 Explained