The area code 202 is located in Washington, District Of Columbia.
Area code 202 covers the entire District of Columbia, home to the nation’s capital on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. It serves all eight wards of Washington, DC, and is closely tied to federal government offices, embassies, and major institutions. Established in 1947, 202 is one of the original North American Numbering Plan area codes and remains the core identifier for Washington, DC phone numbers. Today, it’s a key marker for calls to the U.S. capital and the heart of the Washington metropolitan area.
“Area code 202 was established in 1947 as one of the original North American Numbering Plan area codes.” — North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA)
Landmarks and neighborhoods within the 202 area include:
For more numbering capacity, the 771 overlay now serves the same geographic area as 202, so 10‑digit dialing is required for local calls within the District. Unlike many regions, 202 was never split; it has always covered the full DC boundary, making it a consistent identifier for Washington, DC phone numbers. Many federal agencies, universities like Georgetown University and George Washington University, and international missions use 202 numbers. Located in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), area code 202 remains one of the most recognized codes in the United States due to its direct link to the federal government and iconic national landmarks.