Boise, Idaho

Where Is Area Code 208?

Area code 208 is in Idaho. It serves the entire state, including Boise in southwestern Idaho and communities from the Treasure Valley to the Idaho Panhandle and eastern Idaho. Idaho is one of the few states where a single area code once covered the whole state.

Area code 208 covers major cities such as Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Coeur d'Alene, Twin Falls, Caldwell, and Lewiston. It also covers many smaller communities across Ada County, Canyon County, Kootenai County, Bonneville County, Bannock County, and other counties statewide.

Area code 208 includes some of Idaho’s best-known landmarks and regions. These include the Boise River, the Snake River Plain, the Sawtooth Mountains, and parts of the Rocky Mountains. It also covers the state capital, Boise, and major public lands and recreation areas across Idaho.

History of Area Code 208

Area code 208 was established in 1947. It was one of the original North American area codes created in the first nationwide area code plan by AT&T and the Bell System. From 1947 until 2017, it was Idaho’s only area code.

Area code 208 did not split into smaller regions. Instead, Idaho added area code 986 as an overlay on November 5, 2017. The Idaho Public Utilities Commission approved the overlay as phone number demand increased, and 10-digit dialing became necessary for local calls in the state.

Key Facts About Area Code 208

• Area code 208 is in the state of Idaho, and Boise is the state capital and its largest city.
• Area code 208 originally covered all of Idaho starting in 1947.
• Area code 208 is an original area code in the North American Numbering Plan.
• Area code 208 now shares Idaho with area code 986, which began service on November 5, 2017.
• Boise and most of southern Idaho in area code 208 use Mountain Time.
• Northern Idaho communities such as Coeur d'Alene and Lewiston in area code 208 use Pacific Time.
• Boise State University in Boise is one of the best-known universities within the 208 area code region.
• The Idaho State Capitol in Boise and the Idaho National Laboratory near Idaho Falls are both located in the broader 208 service area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What state is area code 208 in?

Area code 208 is in Idaho.

What major cities use area code 208?

Major cities in area code 208 include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Coeur d'Alene, Twin Falls, Caldwell, and Lewiston.

Is area code 208 a toll-free number?

No. Area code 208 is a geographic area code for Idaho.