The country phone code for the United States is +1, and WHAT.EDU.VN provides you with all the information you need to connect with the US. Understanding international dialing codes and area codes can seem tricky, but it’s essential for seamless communication and we are here to simplify that. We will explore the ins and outs of making international calls to the US, covering everything from dialing instructions to affordable calling options and also include calling tips and resources for staying connected with friends, family, or business contacts.
1. Understanding the United States Country Code
The United States country code is +1. This numerical prefix is essential when dialing a US phone number from abroad. Without it, your call won’t connect. It’s also critical to include the correct area code, a three-digit number that identifies a specific region or city within the US, but what makes up the US country code and how can you use it effectively?
1.1. What is a Country Code?
A country code is a numerical prefix that allows you to dial phone numbers in a specific country from another country. It is an essential part of international dialing, ensuring calls are routed correctly across international borders.
1.2. Why is the US Country Code +1?
The United States was assigned the country code +1 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) due to its historical significance in the development of the telephone system. As one of the first countries to implement a nationwide telephone network, the US was given the single-digit code +1, which also includes Canada and several Caribbean nations.
1.3. How to Use the US Country Code
When calling a US number from abroad, you must dial the international exit code for your country, followed by the US country code (+1), then the area code, and finally the local number. For example, if you’re calling a number with the area code 212 (New York City) from the UK, you’d dial 00-1-212-XXX-XXXX. On a mobile device, you can replace the international exit code with a plus sign (+).
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Calling the US
Calling the US from another country can be straightforward if you follow these steps:
2.1. Dial the International Exit Code
The international exit code is the code you dial from your country to initiate an international call. This code varies depending on the country you are calling from. Here are some common international exit codes:
- United Kingdom: 00
- Australia: 0011
- India: 00
- Japan: 010
You can usually replace the international exit code with a plus sign (+) on a mobile device, which automatically uses the correct exit code for the country you are in.
2.2. Add the US Country Code (+1)
After dialing the international exit code, dial the US country code, which is +1. This tells the phone network that you are calling a number in the United States.
2.3. Include the US Area Code
The US is divided into different area codes, which are three-digit numbers that specify a particular region or city. You must include the correct area code to reach the correct destination within the US. Here are some examples of US area codes:
- New York City: 212, 646, 917
- Los Angeles: 213, 310, 323
- Chicago: 312, 773, 872
- Miami: 305, 786
- San Francisco: 415, 628
2.4. Dial the Local Phone Number
The local phone number consists of seven digits. This is the specific number of the person or business you are trying to reach. Dial the local number after the area code.
2.5. Example of a Complete US Phone Number
Here’s an example of how to dial a US phone number from the UK:
- International Exit Code (UK): 00
- US Country Code: 1
- Area Code (New York City): 212
- Local Phone Number: XXX-XXXX
The complete number you would dial is: 00-1-212-XXX-XXXX
3. Finding the Right US Area Code
Identifying the correct area code is crucial for successfully connecting your call. Here’s how you can find the right area code for a specific location in the US:
3.1. Online Search
One of the easiest ways to find a US area code is to use an online search engine like Google. Simply type the city or region you are trying to reach, followed by “area code.” For example, “Miami area code” will provide you with the area codes for Miami, Florida.
3.2. Online Area Code Directories
Several websites offer comprehensive directories of US area codes. These directories allow you to search for area codes by city, state, or even ZIP code. Some popular area code directories include:
- Area-Codes.com: This website offers a searchable database of US area codes and includes information about area code boundaries and overlay codes.
- WhitePages.com: WhitePages provides a directory of area codes, as well as information about phone number ownership and reverse phone lookup services.
- Localcallingguide.com: This site offers detailed information about US area codes, including maps, history, and related resources.
3.3. Asking the Recipient
If you know the person or business you are trying to call, the easiest way to find the area code is to simply ask them for their phone number. They will be able to provide you with the correct area code and local number.
3.4. Using Online Mapping Services
Online mapping services like Google Maps can also help you find the area code for a specific location. Enter the address of the person or business you are trying to reach into Google Maps, and it will often display the phone number with the correct area code.
4. Affordable Options for Calling the US
Making international calls to the US can be expensive, but several affordable options are available to help you stay connected without breaking the bank.
4.1. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services
VoIP services use the internet to make and receive calls, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional phone services. Some popular VoIP services for international calls include:
- Skype: Skype is one of the most well-known VoIP services, allowing you to make calls to US phone numbers at competitive rates. Skype also offers free calls to other Skype users.
- Google Voice: Google Voice provides free calls to the US from anywhere in the world, as well as other features like voicemail transcription and call forwarding.
- WhatsApp: WhatsApp is primarily a messaging app, but it also allows you to make voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users for free, regardless of location.
- Viber: Similar to WhatsApp, Viber offers free voice and video calls to other Viber users, as well as low-cost calls to US phone numbers.
4.2. International Calling Apps
Several mobile apps specialize in providing affordable international calls. These apps often offer lower rates than traditional phone companies and can be a convenient option for making calls on the go. Some popular international calling apps include:
- Rebtel: Rebtel offers low-cost international calls to the US, with various calling plans to suit your needs.
- WePhone: WePhone allows you to make cheap international calls to the US using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Talkatone: Talkatone provides free calls and texts to US phone numbers, using your device’s internet connection.
- TextNow: TextNow offers free calls and texts to US numbers, with the option to purchase a local phone number for international use.
4.3. International Calling Cards
International calling cards are prepaid cards that allow you to make international calls at discounted rates. You purchase a card with a specific amount of calling credit, and then use the card to make calls to the US. International calling cards can be found at many convenience stores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
4.4. Mobile Carrier International Plans
Many mobile carriers offer international calling plans that include discounted rates for calls to the US. These plans can be a convenient option if you frequently make international calls, as they often offer unlimited or fixed-rate calling to specific countries. Contact your mobile carrier to inquire about their international calling plans.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calling the US
Making international calls can be confusing, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when calling the US:
5.1. Forgetting the International Exit Code
One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to dial the international exit code for your country. Without this code, your call will not be routed correctly to the US. Always remember to dial the correct international exit code before dialing the US country code.
5.2. Omitting the US Country Code
Another common mistake is forgetting to dial the US country code (+1) after the international exit code. The US country code is essential for telling the phone network that you are calling a number in the United States.
5.3. Incorrect Area Code
Using the wrong area code can result in your call being routed to the wrong location or not connecting at all. Always double-check the area code before dialing to ensure that you are calling the correct region within the US.
5.4. Dropping the First Zero of the Area Code
In some countries, you may need to drop the first zero of the area code when making international calls. However, this is not the case when calling the US. Always include the full area code, including any leading zeros, when dialing a US number.
5.5. Not Considering Time Zone Differences
The US spans multiple time zones, so it’s important to consider the time difference when calling someone in the US. Calling at an inconvenient hour can be disruptive or result in your call not being answered. Use a time zone converter to determine the appropriate time to call.
6. Understanding US Area Codes: A Comprehensive List
The United States is divided into numerous area codes, each representing a specific geographic region. These area codes are essential for directing phone calls to the correct location. Here’s a comprehensive list of US area codes by state, along with major cities covered by each code:
6.1. Alabama
- 205: Birmingham, Tuscaloosa
- 251: Mobile, Prichard
- 256 / 938: Huntsville, Decatur, Anniston
- 334: Montgomery, Auburn
6.2. Alaska
- 907: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau
6.3. Arizona
- 480: Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe
- 520: Tucson, Sierra Vista
- 602: Phoenix
- 623: Glendale, Peoria, Surprise
- 928: Flagstaff, Yuma, Prescott
6.4. Arkansas
- 479: Fort Smith, Fayetteville
- 501: Little Rock, Conway
- 870: Jonesboro, Pine Bluff
6.5. California
- 209: Stockton, Modesto
- 213 / 323: Los Angeles (downtown)
- 310 / 424: Los Angeles (Westside), Beverly Hills, Malibu
- 408 / 669: San Jose, Sunnyvale
- 415 / 628: San Francisco
- 510: Oakland, Berkeley
- 530: Redding, Chico
- 559: Fresno, Visalia
- 562: Long Beach
- 619: San Diego
- 626: Pasadena, Alhambra
- 650: Palo Alto, San Mateo
- 661: Bakersfield, Lancaster
- 707: Santa Rosa, Napa
- 714 / 657: Anaheim, Santa Ana
- 760 / 442: Palm Springs, Victorville
- 805: Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo
- 818: Burbank, Glendale
- 831: Salinas, Monterey
- 858: San Diego (North County)
- 909: Riverside, San Bernardino
- 916: Sacramento
- 925: Walnut Creek, Concord
- 949: Irvine, Newport Beach
- 951: Temecula, Murrieta
6.6. Colorado
- 303 / 720: Denver, Boulder
- 719: Colorado Springs, Pueblo
- 970: Fort Collins, Grand Junction
6.7. Connecticut
- 203 / 475: New Haven, Stamford
- 860 / 959: Hartford, New Britain
6.8. Delaware
- 302: Wilmington, Dover
6.9. Florida
- 239: Naples, Fort Myers
- 305 / 786: Miami, Key West
- 321 / 407: Orlando, Melbourne
- 352: Gainesville, Ocala
- 386: Daytona Beach
- 448: Cape Coral
- 561: West Palm Beach, Boca Raton
- 727: St. Petersburg, Clearwater
- 754 / 954: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood
- 813: Tampa
- 850: Tallahassee, Pensacola
- 863: Lakeland, Sebring
- 904: Jacksonville
6.10. Georgia
- 229: Albany
- 404 / 678 / 470 / 770: Atlanta and surrounding areas
- 478: Macon
- 706 / 762: Augusta, Columbus
- 912: Savannah
6.11. Hawaii
- 808: Honolulu, Hawaii (all islands)
6.12. Idaho
- 208: Boise, Idaho Falls
6.13. Illinois
- 217: Springfield, Champaign
- 309: Peoria, Bloomington
- 312: Chicago (downtown)
- 618: Belleville, Carbondale
- 630 / 331: Aurora, Naperville
- 708: Chicago (suburbs)
- 773: Chicago (city)
- 815 / 779: Rockford, Joliet
- 847 / 224: Evanston, Schaumburg
- 872: Chicago (overlay)
6.14. Indiana
- 219: Gary, Hammond
- 260: Fort Wayne
- 317 / 463: Indianapolis
- 574: South Bend, Elkhart
- 765: Muncie, Kokomo
- 812 / 930: Evansville, Bloomington
6.15. Iowa
- 319: Cedar Rapids, Waterloo
- 515: Des Moines
- 563: Davenport, Dubuque
- 641: Mason City
6.16. Kansas
- 316: Wichita
- 620: Dodge City
- 785: Topeka, Manhattan
- 913: Kansas City
6.17. Kentucky
- 270 / 364: Bowling Green, Owensboro
- 502: Louisville
- 606: Ashland
- 859: Lexington
6.18. Louisiana
- 225: Baton Rouge
- 318: Shreveport, Monroe
- 337: Lafayette, Lake Charles
- 504: New Orleans
- 985: Hammond
6.19. Maine
- 207: Portland, Bangor
6.20. Maryland
- 301 / 240: Silver Spring, Bethesda
- 410 / 443: Baltimore, Annapolis
6.21. Massachusetts
- 339 / 781: Boston (suburbs)
- 413: Springfield
- 508 / 774: Worcester, Cape Cod
- 617 / 857: Boston (city)
- 978 / 351: Lowell, Lawrence
6.22. Michigan
- 231: Traverse City
- 248 / 947: Oakland County
- 269: Kalamazoo, Battle Creek
- 313: Detroit
- 517: Lansing, Jackson
- 586: Macomb County
- 616: Grand Rapids
- 734: Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti
- 810: Flint
- 906: Upper Peninsula
- 989: Saginaw, Midland
6.23. Minnesota
- 218: Duluth
- 320: St. Cloud
- 507: Rochester, Mankato
- 612: Minneapolis
- 651: St. Paul
- 763: Northwest suburbs
- 952: Southwest suburbs
6.24. Mississippi
- 228: Gulfport, Biloxi
- 601: Jackson, Meridian
- 662: Oxford, Greenville
6.25. Missouri
- 314: St. Louis
- 417: Springfield, Joplin
- 573: Columbia, Jefferson City
- 636: St. Louis suburbs
- 660: Sedalia
- 816: Kansas City
6.26. Montana
- 406: Billings, Missoula
6.27. Nebraska
- 308: Grand Island
- 402 / 531: Omaha, Lincoln
6.28. Nevada
- 702 / 725: Las Vegas
- 775: Reno, Carson City
6.29. New Hampshire
- 603: Manchester, Concord
6.30. New Jersey
- 201 / 551: Hackensack, Jersey City
- 609 / 640: Trenton, Princeton
- 732 / 848: New Brunswick, Toms River
- 856: Camden
- 862 / 973: Newark, Paterson
- 908: Elizabeth
6.31. New Mexico
- 505 / 575: Albuquerque, Santa Fe
6.32. New York
- 212 / 646 / 917: New York City (Manhattan)
- 315: Syracuse, Utica
- 516: Nassau County (Long Island)
- 518: Albany, Schenectady
- 585: Rochester
- 607: Binghamton, Ithaca
- 631: Suffolk County (Long Island)
- 716: Buffalo
- 845: Poughkeepsie
- 914: Westchester County
6.33. North Carolina
- 252: Greenville
- 336: Greensboro, Winston-Salem
- 704 / 980: Charlotte
- 828: Asheville
- 910: Wilmington
- 919 / 984: Raleigh, Durham
6.34. North Dakota
- 701: Fargo, Bismarck
6.35. Ohio
- 216: Cleveland
- 326 / 513: Cincinnati
- 330: Akron, Canton
- 419 / 567: Toledo
- 440: Lorain
- 614: Columbus
- 740: Lancaster
- 937: Dayton
6.36. Oklahoma
- 405: Oklahoma City
- 539 / 918: Tulsa
- 580: Lawton
6.37. Oregon
- 458 / 541: Eugene, Bend
- 503 / 971: Portland, Salem
6.38. Pennsylvania
- 215 / 267: Philadelphia
- 412 / 878: Pittsburgh
- 570: Scranton, Wilkes-Barre
- 610 / 484: Allentown, Reading
- 717: Harrisburg, Lancaster
- 724: New Castle
- 814: Erie
6.39. Rhode Island
- 401: Providence
6.40. South Carolina
- 803: Columbia
- 843 / 854: Charleston, Myrtle Beach
- 864: Greenville, Spartanburg
6.41. South Dakota
- 605: Sioux Falls, Rapid City
6.42. Tennessee
- 423: Chattanooga
- 615: Nashville
- 731: Jackson
- 865: Knoxville
- 901: Memphis
- 931: Clarksville
6.43. Texas
- 210: San Antonio
- 214 / 469 / 972: Dallas
- 254: Waco
- 281 / 346 / 832: Houston (suburbs)
- 361: Corpus Christi
- 409: Galveston
- 430 / 903: Tyler
- 512 / 737: Austin
- 682 / 817: Fort Worth
- 713: Houston (city)
- 806: Lubbock
- 830: Uvalde
- 915: El Paso
- 936: Conroe
- 940: Denton
6.44. Utah
- 385 / 435: Salt Lake City
6.45. Vermont
- 802: Burlington
6.46. Virginia
- 276: Bristol
- 434: Charlottesville
- 540: Roanoke
- 571 / 703: Northern Virginia
- 757: Virginia Beach
- 804: Richmond
6.47. Washington
- 206: Seattle
- 253: Tacoma
- 360: Vancouver
- 425: Bellevue
- 509: Spokane
6.48. West Virginia
- 304 / 681: Charleston
6.49. Wisconsin
- 262: Racine
- 414: Milwaukee
- 608: Madison
- 715: Wausau
- 920: Green Bay
6.50. Wyoming
- 307: Cheyenne
This comprehensive list should help you identify the correct area code for any location within the United States. Always double-check the area code before making a call to ensure that you are reaching the intended destination.
7. Tips for Making International Calls to the US
Here are some additional tips to ensure your international calls to the US are successful and cost-effective:
7.1. Check Time Zones
The United States spans multiple time zones, including Eastern Time (ET), Central Time (CT), Mountain Time (MT), and Pacific Time (PT). Before making a call, check the current time in the US location you are calling to avoid calling at an inconvenient hour. You can use online time zone converters to find the current time in different US cities.
7.2. Use a Reliable Internet Connection
If you are using VoIP services or international calling apps, make sure you have a reliable internet connection. A weak or unstable internet connection can result in dropped calls, poor audio quality, and other technical issues. Use a Wi-Fi network or a strong mobile data connection for the best calling experience.
7.3. Mute When Not Speaking
To minimize background noise and improve call quality, mute your microphone when you are not speaking. This can help reduce distractions and make it easier for the other person to hear you.
7.4. Speak Clearly and Slowly
When making international calls, speak clearly and slowly to ensure that the other person can understand you. Language barriers and differences in pronunciation can make it difficult to communicate effectively, so take your time and articulate your words carefully.
7.5. Test Your Equipment
Before making an important international call, test your equipment to ensure that it is working properly. Check your microphone, speakers, and internet connection to identify and resolve any potential issues.
7.6. Be Aware of Cultural Differences
When communicating with people from different cultures, be aware of cultural differences and customs. Use polite language, avoid slang or jargon, and be respectful of cultural norms and traditions.
8. FAQ About United States Country Code
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the country code for the United States? | The country code for the United States is +1. |
| How do I call the US from another country? | Dial the international exit code for your country, then 1 (the US country code), followed by the area code and local number. |
| What is an international exit code? | An international exit code is the code you dial from your country to initiate an international call. It varies depending on the country you are calling from. |
| How can I find the area code for a specific location in the US? | You can use an online search engine, online area code directories, ask the recipient, or use online mapping services like Google Maps. |
| Are there affordable options for calling the US? | Yes, there are several affordable options, including VoIP services (Skype, Google Voice), international calling apps (Rebtel, WePhone), international calling cards, and mobile carrier international plans. |
| What are some common mistakes to avoid when calling the US? | Forgetting the international exit code, omitting the US country code, using an incorrect area code, dropping the first zero of the area code, and not considering time zone differences. |
| How can I improve the quality of my international calls to the US? | Use a reliable internet connection, mute when not speaking, speak clearly and slowly, test your equipment, and be aware of cultural differences. |
| What should I do if my international call to the US is not connecting? | Double-check that you have dialed the correct international exit code, US country code, area code, and local number. Also, make sure your equipment is working properly and that you have a stable internet connection if using VoIP. |
| How do I find out the current time in the US? | Use an online time zone converter to find the current time in different US cities. |
| Why is it important to know the area code when calling the US? | The area code is essential for directing phone calls to the correct location within the United States. Without the correct area code, your call may be routed to the wrong region or not connect at all. |
9. Staying Connected: Resources and Tools
To make staying connected with the US even easier, here are some helpful resources and tools:
9.1. Time Zone Converter
Use a time zone converter like World Time Buddy or Timeanddate.com to find the current time in different US cities and plan your calls accordingly.
9.2. Area Code Directory
Refer to online area code directories like Area-Codes.com or WhitePages.com to find the correct area code for a specific location in the US.
9.3. International Calling App Comparison
Compare different international calling apps and services to find the one that best fits your needs and budget. Look for apps with low rates, reliable connections, and user-friendly interfaces.
9.4. Mobile Carrier International Plan Information
Contact your mobile carrier to inquire about their international calling plans and find out if they offer discounted rates for calls to the US.
9.5. Cultural Etiquette Guide
Consult a cultural etiquette guide to learn about US customs and traditions and avoid making cultural missteps during your conversations.
By using these resources and tools, you can stay connected with friends, family, and business contacts in the US easily and affordably.
10. Conclusion: Seamless Communication with the United States
Understanding the United States country code, dialing procedures, and affordable calling options is essential for seamless communication. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently make international calls to the US without any confusion or unnecessary expense. Remember to use the correct international exit code, the US country code (+1), the area code, and the local number. With these tips, staying connected with the US has never been easier, and WHAT.EDU.VN is here to guide you every step of the way.
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