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

Looking to learn more about the Idaho area codes? If you're dealing with VoIP systems, virtual numbers, or just receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers, this in-depth article 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 – One of the original North American area codes
986 – Introduced in 2017 as an overlay

Idaho's first and only area code, 208, was one of the earliest codes in the U.S.. 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. 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

The rise in mobile phones, VoIP lines, and business numbers led to a surge in number allocation. 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

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 see Idaho virtual number options 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 VoIP services in Idaho.

Phone Number Lookup and Spam Detection

Use reverse phone lookup tools to get details on Idaho Falls area code unknown callers:

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

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?

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?

No, existing 208 numbers remained unchanged

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?

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

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

208 & 986 Explained