Area codes identify specific regions within the North American Numbering Plan. So, what’s the deal with the 208 area code?
Here’s a quick guide to the 208 area code, including where it’s located, what time zone it uses, and the major cities it covers.
Geographic Location and Coverage
The 208 area code blankets the entire state of Idaho. It’s one of the original area codes, put in place back in 1947.
So, if you’re calling anywhere in Idaho, you’re dialing the 208 area code. This includes major cities like Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls, plus all the smaller towns and rural areas in between.
What time is it in the 208 area code?
If you’re calling someone in the 208 area code, it’s helpful to know that Idaho is split between two time zones.
- Most of Idaho, including the area covered by the 208 area code, is in the Mountain Time Zone.
- However, the westernmost part of the state observes Pacific Time.
During standard time, Mountain Time is GMT/UTC -7, while Pacific Time is GMT/UTC -8. During daylight saving time, Mountain Time is GMT/UTC -6, and Pacific Time is GMT/UTC -7.
Daylight Saving Time
The 208 area code observes Daylight Saving Time (DST), so you’ll want to keep that in mind when you’re scheduling calls or meetings.
In 2025, Daylight Saving Time will begin on March 9 at 2:00 AM local time, and it will end on November 2 at 2:00 AM local time.
During DST, Mountain Time becomes Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), and Pacific Time becomes Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).
In Closing
The 208 area code blankets most of Idaho, stretching across both Mountain and Pacific Time zones.
If you’re contacting someone in the 208 area code, it’s important to know whether they observe Mountain or Pacific Time and how Daylight Saving Time might affect your call or meeting time.