Local & Virtual Numbers Guide

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

Trying to understand the phone area codes for Idaho? Whether you're a Boise Idaho area code 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

Idaho is primarily served by two area codes:

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

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, 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

Both area codes serve the entire state. You’ll find these area codes in:

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

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? Using a virtual phone system lets you choose between 208 and 986 with full call routing and SMS features.

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.

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 VoIP solutions for Idaho businesses.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Want to verify who’s behind an Idaho number?:

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

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?

208 and 986 are the two area codes in Idaho, covering all regions

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?

Yes, you can choose between 208 and 986 for your virtual number

Are Idaho area codes affected by spam or robocalls?

Use tools like TrueCaller, Nomorobo, or Whitepages to check caller ID

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