When you’re dialing a number internationally to reach the United States, it’s important to use the correct dialing code. Without it, your call won’t go through, and you might end up with an error message. This article will guide you through the international dialing code for the USA, how to dial it from different countries, and explain how the system works.
What is the International Dialing Code for the USA?
The international dialing code for the United States is +1. This is a country code used to call the USA from outside its borders. Whenever you’re calling from another country, you must include this code to ensure that the call reaches the correct destination.
How to Dial the USA Internationally
To dial the USA internationally, follow these simple steps:
- Dial your country’s exit code (also called the international access code). This is a number used to indicate that you are making an international call. For example, in the UK, the exit code is “00”; in Australia, it’s “0011”.
- Dial the USA’s country code. This is +1, which is used for the United States.
- Dial the area code. The area code is a three-digit number that represents a specific region within the United States.
- Dial the local number. The local number is the final part of the phone number and varies by individual or business.
So, a full number would look something like this:
Exit Code + 1 + Area Code + Local Number
For example, calling the number (555) 123-4567 from the UK would be:
00 + 1 + 555 + 1234567
Exit Codes for Different Countries
Since the USA’s country code is +1, you need to know the exit code of the country you’re calling from.
Here are some common exit codes:
UK: 00
Australia: 0011
Canada: 011 (though you don’t need the country code when calling from Canada to the USA)
Germany: 00
India: 00
Japan: 010
France: 00
How Do I Dial a US Number from Another Country?
Let’s walk through an example of how to dial a US phone number from various countries:
From the UK to the USA
If you’re in the UK, you’d use the exit code 00 followed by 1, the USA country code.
So, to call a number like (212) 555-1234, you’d dial:
00 + 1 + 212 + 5551234
From Australia to the USA
If you’re dialing from Australia, the exit code is 0011, followed by 1.
For the number (305) 555-9876, you’d dial:
0011 + 1 + 305 + 5559876
From India to the USA
In India, the exit code is 00.
To call (202) 555-6789 in the USA, you’d dial:
00 + 1 + 202 + 5556789
Why Is the USA Dialing Code +1?
The USA’s international dialing code of +1 is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
This system, created in 1947, includes the United States, Canada, and several other countries and territories, such as:
- Canada
- Puerto Rico
- Bermuda
- The Bahamas
- The Cayman Islands
All these regions share the +1 dialing code. This makes dialing between these countries much easier.
Area Codes in the USA
Area codes are part of the North American phone numbering system. Each area code corresponds to a particular geographic region.
For example:
212: New York City (Manhattan)
310: Los Angeles, California
415: San Francisco, California
617: Boston, Massachusetts
How to Find the Correct Area Code
To dial the USA correctly, you need the correct area code. There are many websites and apps that help you look up area codes by location. You can also search for area codes by city or state online.
If you’re calling a business or individual in the USA, they’ll often provide you with the full phone number, including the area code. However, if you’re unsure, websites like areacodelocations.info or whitepages.com can help.
Calling Mobile Numbers in the USA
Mobile numbers in the USA use the same area code system as landlines. However, the number you’re calling may not be tied to a specific location. Mobile phones are portable, so you can get a mobile number with any area code, even if you’re not located in that region.
When dialing a mobile number, you still use the +1 country code, followed by the area code and the phone number.
International Calling Tips
Use International Calling Cards: If you’re making frequent international calls, you might want to consider using calling cards. They offer lower rates than traditional international calls.
Check Time Zones: The United States spans several time zones, so be sure to check the time before calling. This will help you avoid calling at inconvenient times.
Consider Using Apps: For cheaper international calling, apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber can let you call the USA without needing the international dialing code.
Watch Out for Extra Charges: International calls can be expensive. Always check with your phone provider about international calling rates before making the call.
Special Considerations for Calling the USA
When dialing the USA, there are some additional things to keep in mind:
Toll-Free Numbers: Numbers beginning with 800, 888, 877, 866, etc., are toll-free numbers in the USA. You don’t need to pay for the call, but you still have to dial them with the country code.
VoIP Services: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services such as Skype or Zoom allow you to make calls to the USA via the internet. These services bypass the traditional phone networks, and you typically don’t need the +1 dialing code.
Calling From a Mobile Phone: If you’re calling from a mobile phone, most mobile networks automatically recognize the +1 code and you can simply input the phone number (including the area code) as you would for a local number.
International Phone Plans: Some phone carriers offer international calling plans or packages that can make calling the USA cheaper. These plans may reduce the cost per minute for international calls.
How to Dial the USA from Landline and Mobile Phones
When calling from a landline, the process is straightforward. Dial the exit code for your country, followed by the country code for the USA (+1), the area code, and the local phone number.
For mobile phones, it’s similar. However, if you’re calling using an international phone plan or VoIP, you might not need the exit code. Simply dial +1 followed by the area code and local number.
Conclusion
The international dialing code for the USA is +1, part of the North American Numbering Plan. When calling the USA from abroad, always start with your country’s exit code, followed by 1, and then the area code and phone number. Knowing how to dial correctly ensures your calls are successful, whether you’re calling a business, a friend, or a family member. Whether you’re using a mobile phone, landline, or internet calling service, dialing the USA doesn’t have to be complicated.
