Area code 208 is an area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) for the state of Idaho. It was created in 1953, and serves Idaho and parts of Oregon, Montana, and Wyoming. It encompasses the majority of the state, with the exception of a few counties in the far southeastern corner that are served by area codes 406 and 406.
The area code 208 is the main geographic area for the state of Idaho, encompassing the cities of Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and Twin Falls. It also includes many smaller towns and rural areas throughout the state. The area code is one of the few in the US that has never been split or overlaid, despite its rapid growth in population since its creation in 1953.
History of Area Code 208
Area code 208 was established in 1953 as one of the original area codes in the NANP. At the time, it covered the entire state of Idaho, as well as parts of Oregon, Montana, and Wyoming. Over the years, as the population of Idaho grew, the need for additional area codes arose. In 1997, area code 406 was established to cover the southeastern corner of the state, and in 1999, area code 986 was created to cover the northeastern corner of the state.
In 2008, area code 986 was split, creating area code 775. This was done in response to the increasing demand for phone numbers in the area. In 2019, area code 986 was again split, creating area code 583, to serve the northeastern corner of the state.
How to Dial a Number in Area Code 208
When dialing a number within the 208 area code, it is not necessary to dial the area code. For local calls, only the seven-digit telephone number is necessary. When dialing a number in another area code, it is necessary to dial 1 plus the area code, followed by the seven-digit telephone number.
For international calls, it is necessary to dial 011 plus the country code, followed by the area code and telephone number. For example, to call a number in England from within the 208 area code, it is necessary to dial 011 + 44 + (area code) + (telephone number).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the area code for Idaho?
The area code for Idaho is 208.
When was area code 208 created?
Area code 208 was created in 1953.
Is area code 208 still in use?
Yes, area code 208 is still in use.
Does area code 208 cover the entire state of Idaho?
No, area code 208 does not cover the entire state of Idaho. The southeastern corner of the state is served by area codes 406 and 986.
How do I dial a number in area code 208?
When dialing a number within the 208 area code, it is not necessary to dial the area code. For local calls, only the seven-digit telephone number is necessary. When dialing a number in another area code, it is necessary to dial 1 plus the area code, followed by the seven-digit telephone number.
How do I make an international call from area code 208?
To make an international call from area code 208, it is necessary to dial 011 plus the country code, followed by the area code and telephone number. For example, to call a number in England from within the 208 area code, it is necessary to dial 011 + 44 + (area code) + (telephone number).
What other area codes are in Idaho?
In addition to area code 208, Idaho also has area codes 406 and 986, which cover the southeastern and northeastern corners of the state, respectively.
Is area code 208 a toll-free area code?
No, area code 208 is not a toll-free area code.
What is the time zone for area code 208?
Area code 208 is located in the Mountain Time Zone.
What cities are in area code 208?
The cities in area code 208 include Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and Twin Falls.
What states are in area code 208?
Area code 208 covers the state of Idaho, as well as parts of Oregon, Montana, and Wyoming.
Are there any other area codes that cover parts of Idaho?
Yes, in addition to area code 208, there are also area codes 406 and 986, which cover the southeastern and northeastern corners of the state, respectively.
Can I keep my existing number if I move to a different area code?
Yes, in most cases, you can keep your existing number if you move to a different area code. However, this is not always possible and you should contact your phone service provider to confirm.