Are you scratching your head over Idaho's area code? You're not alone! The confusion surrounding Idaho's area code is more common than you think. Let's dive into the mystery of the Idaho area code confusion and unravel why it has people puzzled.

Idaho is primarily served by a single area code: 208. This area code has been the state's identifier since it was established in 1947 when rotary phones were the newest technology, and "streaming" was just something rivers did. Why the confusion over something that seems so straightforward?

One reason is the recent introduction of an overlay. In 2017, the area code 986 was added to the mix due to rapid population growth and increased demand for new phone numbers. This was Idaho's first-ever area code change, and it caught many residents off guard. Before this, Idahoans only needed to remember one area code for the entire state. Imagine suddenly having to remember two! It's easy to see why some folks might get flustered when dialing Idaho phone numbers.

Does anyone actually have the new 986 area code?
byu/shlem13 inIdaho

Adding to the mix-up, some people mistakenly believe that only scammers use Idaho's area code. It's a myth that certainly doesn't help in clarifying things! Others even confuse Idaho's area code with one from California, leading to even more head-scratching moments when trying to place or receive calls.

You might wonder, how do you correctly use these area codes? Simple! When dialing within Idaho, you'll need to use 10-digit dialing, including the area code, even for local calls. This change ensures that whether you're reaching out to someone in bustling Boise or the serene landscapes of Coeur d'Alene, your call goes through without a hitch.

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