US Phone Number Format – A Complete Guide

There is so much confusion for people outside the US when it comes to making a phone call to the US.

While calling a US phone number, people must know that dialing only the respective phone number isn’t enough for a successful call.

There are other elements in the phone number format that you must care about.

Connecting a call to the US is crucial for personal or business purposes. So, to do so error-free, you must know about the US phone number format.

Therefore, to let you know the US phone number format in detail, we have prepared this in-depth article with the help of our subject matter experts.

After finishing this article, we are confident that you will be able to handle the difficulties of formatting phone numbers to dial US.

So, without wasting any time, let’s get started-

General US Phone Number Format

In the United States, phone numbers follow the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), structured in a 10-digit format.

Facts: The North American Numbering Plan spans twenty-five regions in twenty countries, primarily in North America and the Caribbean.

All of the Numbers in the United States are based on this 10-digit format –

📞 (NPA) – NXX – XXXX

• NPA (Numbering Plan Area): The 3-digit area code identifies a specific geographic region(Area Code).
• NXX: The 3-digit exchange code routes calls to the correct local exchange within the area.
• XXXX: The 4-digit line number assigned to an individual phone line.

Now, that you know the general phone number format of the US, it will be now essential for you to know the major types of phone numbers before knowing the Phone Number format in detail-

Types of U.S. Phone Numbers with Format

Before dialing any kind of number you have to first know what kind of phone number it is.

Most of the time, you will be interacting with mobile or telephone numbers, but there are also other important types of numbers that you should be aware of. Here is the list-

1. Landline Numbers

📞 Format: (Area Code) NXX-XXXX
Example: (212) 555-1234

Landline numbers are assigned to fixed locations, such as homes, businesses, or government offices.

These numbers are routed through traditional telephone networks, either using copper wires or fiber-optic cables.

Components:

• NPA (Area Code): The first three digits represent the geographic location of the landline number. For example, (212) is the area code for New York City.
• NXX (Exchange Code): The next three digits (555 in the example) identify a specific telephone exchange within the area.
• XXXX (Line Number): The final four digits represent a unique line within the exchange, connecting a specific phone.

You might also Like: How to Divert Calls from Landline to Mobile?

2. Mobile (Cell) Numbers

📱 Format: (Area Code) NXX-XXXX
Example: (415) 555-6789

Mobile numbers are assigned to wireless carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

These numbers usually follow the same 10-digit format as landlines but are not tied to a physical location.

Mobile numbers can be used anywhere within the coverage area of the wireless carrier.

Components:

• NPA (Area Code): Like landlines, mobile numbers have an area code indicating the region. For example, (415) is for San Francisco.
• NXX (Exchange Code): The exchange code helps route the call to a specific wireless network. In this case, 555 is part of the exchange code.
• XXXX (Line Number): This is the individual mobile number, unique to each phone line.

3. Toll-Free Numbers

📞 Format: 1-800/888/877/866/855/844/833-NXX-XXXX
Example: 1-800-555-1234

Toll-free numbers are used by businesses and organizations, allowing customers to call free of charge.

Basically, the business pays for the incoming call. Therefore, these numbers are often used for customer service, sales inquiries, and support lines.

Components:

• 1 (Country Code): The “1” indicates the country code for the U.S. and Canada.
• NPA (Toll-Free Area Code): The area code starts with a toll-free prefix such as 800, 888, or 877. These codes are not geographic and can be used nationwide.
• NXX (Exchange Code): This helps route the call to a specific business or customer service center.
• XXXX (Line Number): The final four digits represent a unique business line or department within the company.

Interesting Read: People In USA Left Amazed When They’re Calling 1-800-242-8478. Here’s Why

4. Emergency & Special Service Numbers

🚨 Format: 3-digit codes
Examples:

• 911 – Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance).
• 311 – Non-emergency municipal services.
• 411 – Directory assistance (phone book lookup).
• 511 – Traffic and travel information.
• 211 – Community services (shelters, food banks, mental health).
• 988 – Suicide and crisis lifeline.

These are short, 3-digit numbers used to access specialized services in the U.S. They are universally recognized and do not require an area code.

Note: This type of phone number cannot be accessed directly by people outside the U.S.

Components:

• Short Code: These numbers are typically 3 digits long, such as 911 for emergencies, or 311 for non-emergency city services.
• No Area Code or Exchange Code: These services are built into the phone network and are designed to be easily accessible without additional information.
• Direct Service Access: Each number connects the caller directly to a specific service provider, such as emergency response teams, community organizations, or government services.

Key Takeaways

Phone Number Type	Format	Components
Landline	(Area Code) NXX-XXXX	NPA (Area Code), NXX (Exchange Code), XXXX (Line Number)
Mobile	(Area Code) NXX-XXXX	NPA (Area Code), NXX (Exchange Code), XXXX (Line Number)
Toll-Free	1-800/888/877-NXX-XXXX	1 (Country Code), NPA (Toll-Free Area Code), NXX (Exchange), XXXX (Line)
Emergency & Special	3-digit codes	Shortcodes (e.g., 911, 311, 411, etc.) with no area code

Each of these phone number types serves a distinct purpose. So, all of the specific components of these phone numbers ensure that calls are routed correctly.

Now that we have discussed briefly US phone number types, we will talk descriptively about the US phone number format with its dialing steps to make you more clear.

Understanding the US Phone Number Format with Country Code

To dial the correct phone number to the US from anywhere in the world, you must first know about the different components of the phone number format of the US.

After knowing each component of the US phone number format, you can then follow a few steps to make a call.

So, first, let’s take a look at the format that must be followed while making an international call to the US –

Country’s international exit code > +1 (US country code) > area code > 7-digit local phone number

Let’s understand it from a closer angle:

International Exit Code

The International Exit Code is the code used to dial out of the originating country. It varies depending on the country you’re calling from.

For example:

• From India, the exit code is 00.
• From the UK, the exit code is also 00.
• From Australia, the exit code is 0011.

Purpose: The exit code ensures the call is routed out of your country’s telecom system and into the international network.

Here’s what it looks like after inserting International Exit code – 

00 (Assume UK)

When Should You Use the International Exit Code?

You should use the International Exit Code if you’re dialing from a landline or a system that doesn’t automatically account for international dialing.

• Use the exit code when dialing from a traditional landline or some regional telecom systems.
  Example: 00 1 415 555 1234
• Skip the exit code when using a mobile device that supports the + symbol.
  Example: +1 415 555 1234

Country Code

After the exit code, you need to dial the country code for the country you’re calling. +1 is the country code for the US and you must make sure that it is at the front before hitting that call button.

Note: If you inserted the exit code at first, then there is no need to put the + symbol as the exit code itself replaces the + symbol. Here is an example –

• With exit code: 00 1 415 555 1234

• Without exit code: +1 415 555 1234

Here’s what it looks like after inserting the Country code – 

00 1

Area Code

After country code comes the area code which refers to a specific geographic region, city, or state within the US. It consists of 3 digits.

Common examples of area codes:

• 212 (New York City)
• 415 (San Francisco)
• 305 (Miami)

Here’s what it looks like after inserting the Area code – 

00 1 415

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Local Number

After the area code, you dial the 7-digit local phone number, which is specific to an individual or organization within the area. Also, the local number identifies as a specific region, city, or state.

The local number is broken into two parts:

• Prefix (first 3 digits): Identifies a smaller region or exchange within the area.
• Line number (last 4 digits): Unique to the recipient.

Example:

For the number 555 1234:

• 555 is the prefix.
• 1234 is the unique line number.

Here’s what it looks like after inserting the Local Number (Final Look) – 

00 1 415 555 1234

Therefore, the steps to Call a US Phone number with a country code are pretty simple – Enter the exit code of the country(may not require all the time) from which you are trying to call the US phone number, insert the country code, the area code, and finally the local number.

Here is the final representation of the US phone number format that must be dialed from outside the US-

With exit code: 00 1 415 555 1234

Without exit code: +1 415 555 1234

Now that you have an idea of each component, we will discuss a few steps that will then finalize your knowledge to make a call to the US –

Step by Step Process to call the US using the proper phone number format

We now know the US phone number format to make a call. However, let’s recap and see step by step how to make a call to the US phone number –

Insert Exit Code of the Country you are dialing from

If you live in a different country and the person you’re trying to call the number in the US, then the country’s exit code may be essential in such moments.

Here is the List of Exit codes of the Famous Countries –

• India: 00
• UK: 00
• Australia: 0011
• USA: 011
• Canada: 011
• Germany: 00
• France: 00
• Italy: 00
• Spain: 00
• China: 00
• Japan: 010
• Brazil: 00 (or 0021 for some carriers).
• South Africa: 00
• Mexico: 00
• Russia: 810
• South Korea: 001 / 002 / 008 (depending on the carrier).
• Argentina: 00
• Singapore: 001
• Malaysia: 00
• Thailand: 001
• Philippines: 00

Note: Check out this above section if you are confused about whether you should insert an exit code or not.

Here’s what it looks like after inserting International Exit code – 

00 

Dial the Country Code of the US

The country code for the USA is +1. This code allows you to call US phone numbers outside the USA.

Here’s what it looks like after inserting the Country code – 

With Exit code: 00 

Without Exit code: +1

As we have already mentioned above, If you insert the exit code first, then there is no need to put the + symbol as the exit code itself replaces the + symbol. Here is an example –

• With exit code: 00 1 

• Without exit code: +1 

Know the area code and insert it after the Country Code

Know the area code of the receiver. Area code is identified by a specific geographic area within the US. You can look for the area code online or in a phone directory.

Example-

• The area code for Alaska is 907
• Area codes for Colorado are 303, 719, 720, 970, and 983

Here’s what it looks like after inserting the Area code – 

• With Exit code: 00 1 907

• Without Exit code: +1 907

Dial the local phone number

A local phone number gives you a clear idea of which phone line or whom you’re calling. It is made up of 7 digits.

For example, to call a number in Alaska with the local number 536-7878 from the UK, you have to dial:

00 (exit code) + 1 (US country code) + 907 (area code) + 536-7878 (local number)

Final Look:

• With Exit code: 00 1 907 5367878

• Without Exit code: +1 907 5367878

Local US Phone Number Format

Now that we have given detailed info about the US phone number format for international calls, it will be a lot easier for you to know about the Local US phone number format.

Local US phone number format is important for US nationals living in the country. Therefore, let’s discuss the important components of Local US phone numbers-

Components of a Local US Phone Number

Area Code (3 Digits):

As we discussed above, the area code identifies a specific geographic region within the United States, such as a city or state. Therefore, while making calls within the US with different area codes, it will be compulsory for you to dial the area code.

Local Number (7 Digits):

As we discussed above for this also, the local number is divided into two parts:

• Exchange Number (First 3 Digits): Refers to a smaller region or local telephone exchange within the area.
• Subscriber Number (Last 4 Digits): Unique to the individual or organization being called.

Types of Local US Phone Number Format

Within the Same Area Code:

If the caller and receiver share the same area code, you can simply dial the 7-digit local number (e.g., 555-1234).

Outside Your Local Area (Within the US):

When calling a number outside your local area code, include:

• Optional prefix 1 (US country code for domestic long-distance calls).
• Area code + local number.
• Example: 1-415-555-1234 or 415-555-1234.

Key Notes to Remember for Local US Phone Number Formats

• Using the “1” Prefix:

You may need to dial 1 before the area code and local number when making long-distance calls within the US. Therefore, it depends on your service provider or device settings.

• Mobile vs. Landline Dialing:

Many modern mobile phones automatically detect whether the “1” prefix is required. For landlines, you may need to include it for long-distance calls.

Area Codes in the United States

The USA is separated into several regions or states, each with specific area codes. So, let’s take a look at a list of all the US area codes based on the geographic regions.

Area codes in Northeast USA

The Northeast USA is made up of nine states. These are Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

State	Area Codes
Maine	207
New Hampshire	603
Vermont	802
Massachusetts	339, 351, 413, 617, 508, 774, 781, 857, 978
Rhode Island	401
Connecticut	203, 860, 475, 959
New York	212, 315, 332, 347, 516, 518, 585, 607, 631, 646, 680, 716, 718, 838, 845, 914, 917, 929, 934
New Jersey	201, 551, 609, 640, 732, 848, 856, 862, 908, 973
Pennsylvania	215, 223, 267, 272, 412, 484, 610, 717, 724, 814, 878

Area codes in Midwest USA

The Midwest USA is made up of twelve states. These are Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

State	Area Codes
Illinois	217, 224, 309, 312, 331, 630, 618, 708, 773, 779, 815, 847, 872
Indiana	219, 260, 317, 765, 574, 812, 930
Iowa	319, 515, 563, 641, 712
Kansas	316, 620, 785, 913
Michigan	231, 248, 269, 313, 586, 517, 616, 734, 810, 906, 947, 989, 679
Minnesota	218, 320, 507, 612, 651, 763, 952
Missouri	314, 417, 573, 636, 660, 816
Nebraska	308, 402, 531
North Dakota	701
Ohio	216, 234, 326, 330, 380, 419, 440, 513, 567, 614, 740, 937, 220
South Dakota	605
Wisconsin	262, 414, 608, 534, 715, 920, 274

Area codes in Southern USA

The Southern USA is made up of sixteen states. These are Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.

State	Area Codes
Delaware	302
Florida	239, 305, 321, 352, 386, 407, 686, 561, 727, 754, 772, 786, 813, 850, 863, 904, 941, 954
Georgia	229, 404, 470, 478, 678, 706, 762, 770, 912
Maryland	240, 301, 410, 443, 667
North Carolina	252, 336, 704, 743, 828, 910, 919, 980, 984
South Carolina	803, 843, 854, 864
Virginia	276, 434, 540, 571, 703, 757, 804
West Virginia	304, 681
Alabama	205, 251, 256, 334, 938
Kentucky	270, 364, 606, 502, 859
Mississippi	228, 601, 662, 769
Tennessee	423, 615, 629, 731, 865, 901, 931
Arkansas	479, 501, 870
Louisiana	225, 318, 337, 504, 985
Oklahoma	405, 580, 918, 539
Texas	210, 214, 254, 325, 281, 346, 361, 409, 430, 432, 469, 512, 682, 713, 726, 737, 806, 817, 830, 832, 903, 915, 936, 940, 956, 972, 979

Area codes in Western USA

The Western USA is made up of thirteen states. These are Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, and Hawaii.

State	Area Codes
Montana	406
Wyoming	307
Colorado	303, 719, 720, 970
New Mexico	505, 575
Idaho	208, 986
Utah	435, 801, 385
Arizona	479, 501, 870
Nevada	702, 725, 775
Washington	206, 253, 360, 425, 509, 564
Oregon	503, 541, 971, 458
California	209, 213, 279, 310, 323, 341, 408, 415, 424, 442, 510, 530, 559, 562, 619, 626, 628, 650, 657, 661, 669, 707, 714, 747, 760, 805, 818, 820, 831, 858, 909, 916, 925, 949, 951
Alaska	907
Hawaii	808

Possible causes why your call won’t reach the US

There are a few reasons your phone call isn’t reaching the US. Here is a list of those:

• You haven’t included the correct country code when calling outside the US.
• You accidentally missed entering the exit code of your country.
• You’ve put the wrong area code and dialed the phone number.
• You’ve misplaced any digit when dialing the number.
• Your phone plan possibly has international calling restrictions.

Therefore, by just simply following the steps we outlined above, you can be entirely certain that your call will reach its destination error-free.

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Conclusion

And that’s a wrap! In this article, we’ve now fully covered the US phone number format.

Let’s quickly recap it-

Whether calling a client in the US or getting in touch with someone who lives abroad, international phone calls can be hard to crack if the proper calling format is not followed.

Like any other country, the US has its own phone number format which is mandatory to follow.

A correct US phone number format means you first dial the country’s exit code followed by the US country code, area code, and local number.

However, after dialing a US Number, you need to double-check the dialed digits and enter only the correct codes depending on the location you’re trying to call.

FAQs

How do you write a US phone number with a country code and exit code?

You can follow this format to write a US phone number with a country code and exit code-

•  country exit code > +1 (US country code) > Area code > 7-digit local phone number.

Is US country code 001 or 1?

The US country code is 1 not 001, you don’t need to prefix it with zeros for making international calls. This code should be included before dialing a US phone number.

What is a 7-digit phone number in the US?

The 7-digit phone number refers to the US’s local number, representing a phone line.

Are all US phone numbers 10 digits?

Yes, most U.S. phone numbers are 10 digits long. They follow this format: (XXX) XXX-XXXX.

• XXX: Area code (3 digits)
• XXX-XXXX: Local phone number (7 digits)

What is a 9-digit number in the USA?

A 9-digit number typically refers to the Social Security Number (SSN). It is assigned to specific persons for tracking employment and social security benefits.

Does it cost money to call from the UK to the USA?

Yes, it does cost money to call from the UK to the USA in most instances. Such calls are referred to as international calls, and your phone service provider usually charges them at a per-minute rate.

Do you get charged for calling a US number internationally?

Yes, in most cases, you can be charged for calling a US number from abroad. Because these calls are considered international, they can be quite expensive, sometimes exceeding $3.50 per minute.