Idaho local data guide

Boise, Idaho Area Codes

The Boise metropolitan area, and the state of Idaho in its entirety, is served by two area codes: 208 and 986. The 208 area code has historically served the state since 1947, while the 986 overlay was introduced in 2017 to accommodate population growth and demand for new numbers.

Updated with grounded research as of 2026-08-23.

The short answer

Boise, Idaho, utilizes two area codes: 208 and 986. Both codes cover the entire state of Idaho, meaning there is no geographic distinction between them; residents and businesses in Boise may be assigned either code regardless of their specific location within the city.

Key facts

Primary Area Code
208 (In service since 1947)
Overlay Area Code
986 (In service since September 5, 2017)

How the Statewide Overlay Works

In 2017, the Idaho Public Utilities Commission implemented the 986 area code as an overlay. Unlike a geographic split where a city or region is divided into different codes, an overlay covers the same geographic area as the existing code. This allows new phone numbers to be issued in the 986 area code alongside the traditional 208 numbers.

  • No existing phone numbers were changed when the 986 overlay was introduced.
  • The overlay ensures a sufficient supply of new telephone numbers for Idaho's growing population.

Dialing Procedures

Because Idaho utilizes an overlay system, 10-digit dialing (area code + seven-digit number) is required for all local calls within the state. When placing a call to any local Boise number, you must dial the area code regardless of whether it is 208 or 986.

  • Always dial the area code for local, regional, and long-distance calls within Idaho.
  • Failing to include the area code may result in a recording prompting you to redial with the full 10-digit number.

Distinguishing Between 208 and 986

It is a common misconception that 208 and 986 represent different geographic regions or distinct service tiers. In reality, both area codes are fully integrated. A resident in downtown Boise is just as likely to have a 986 number as a 208 number. Neither code is toll-free; standard calling rates and mobile plan agreements apply to numbers in both area codes.

  • Both 208 and 986 are standard geographic area codes, not toll-free numbers (like 800 or 888).
  • There is no difference in cost or service coverage between the two codes.

Common questions

Are 986 numbers considered long-distance in Boise?

No. Because 986 is an overlay code for the entire state, calls between 208 and 986 numbers within Idaho are treated the same as calls between two 208 numbers. They are local calls, provided they fall within standard local calling scopes.

Can I request a 208 number specifically?

New phone numbers are assigned based on availability from service providers. While you can ask your carrier if they have 208 numbers available when setting up new service, they cannot guarantee a specific area code as they must pull from current inventories.

Related Idaho questions

  • Why do I have to dial 10 digits for local calls?
  • Are 800 numbers different from Idaho area codes?
  • How do I find out if a number is local?

Sources and verification