208 Area Code

The 208 area code is a telephone area code in the United States, serving the entire state of Idaho. Established in 1947 as one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) codes, it has long covered all of Idaho. However, due to growing demand, an overlay with area code 986 was introduced in 2017. Both 208 and 986 now serve all regions of Idaho.

Understanding the 208 Area Code

The 208 area code designates phone numbers throughout Idaho. The format is (208) NXX-XXXX, and since the overlay with 986, 10-digit dialing is required for all calls within the state.

208 Area Code Map and Geographic Location

The 208 area code map covers the entire state of Idaho, from the Panhandle near Coeur d'Alene down to Boise, Twin Falls, Pocatello, and Idaho Falls. Both rural and metropolitan areas share the same statewide code.

Major Cities and Regions in the 208 Area Code

  • Boise (state capital)
  • Idaho Falls
  • Pocatello
  • Twin Falls
  • Coeur d'Alene
  • Nampa
  • Meridian

ZIP Codes within the 208 Area (Examples)

  • Boise - 83702, 83709, 83712
  • Idaho Falls - 83401, 83402
  • Pocatello - 83201
  • Twin Falls - 83301
  • Coeur d'Alene - 83814

Time Zone

The 208 area code spans two time zones:

  • Mountain Time Zone (MT) - covering most of Idaho.
  • Pacific Time Zone (PT) - covering the Idaho Panhandle in the northwestern part of the state.

Dialing, Phone & Service Details

  • Local dialing: 10-digit dialing is mandatory due to the 208/986 overlay.
  • Long-distance (within NANP): Dial 1 + area code + number.
  • International: From abroad, dial +1 208 + 7-digit number (e.g., +1 208 555 1234).
  • Services: Landlines, mobile phones, VoIP, businesses, and state government offices.

Why the 208 Area Code Matters

The 208 number is a symbol of Idaho's state identity. Even with the addition of 986, 208 remains widely recognized and associated with Idaho as one of the original NANP codes.

What area code is 208? / Where's area code 208?

What area code is 208? - It is a U.S. area code serving the state of Idaho.

Where's area code 208? - It covers all of Idaho, including Boise, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls, and Coeur d'Alene.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 208 Area Code

What cities are covered by area code 208?

Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls, Nampa, and Coeur d'Alene, along with all of Idaho.

When was the 208 area code created?

It was created in 1947 as one of the original NANP codes.

Is 208 the only area code in Idaho?

No, 986 was added as an overlay in 2017. Both cover the same areas.

What time zones does 208 cover?

It spans Mountain Time (most of the state) and Pacific Time (Idaho Panhandle).

Do I need to dial 10 digits for 208 numbers?

Yes, 10-digit dialing is required due to the 986 overlay.

208 Area Code