Phoenix's unified area code update

What is a boundary elimination overlay?

A boundary elimination overlay for the Phoenix metro area means the three area codes serving the Phoenix metro area will all serve the same geographic area. There will no longer be a boundary between the 480, 602 and 623 area codes; instead, the three area codes will all serve the same combined geographic region.

A boundary elimination overlay does not require telephone users to change their existing area code or phone number. It also does not change the way you dial calls. You’ll still use 10-digit dialing; dial the area code and phone number for all local calls, just as you do now.

Who is affected?

Beginning February 11, 2023, anyone with a 602 or 623 area code should begin using 10 digits (area code + phone number) when dialing all local calls (Mandatory 10-digit dialing has already been implemented in the 480 area code). This includes all local calls which currently allow 7-digit dialing. During the permissive 10-digit dialing period, if you forget and only dial 7 digits, your calls will still complete. The permissive 10-digit dialing period will remain in place until August 12, 2023.

Beginning August 12, 2023, 10-digit dialing will become mandatory for anyone with a 602 and 623 area code, and their calls that do not include the area code will not complete. If you forget and only dial 7 digits, you will hear a recorded message that advises you to include the area code, and you will need to hang up and re-dial your call including the area code.

What do you need to do?

Customers in the overlay region should:

• Dial 1 + area code + phone number for all local calls
• Identify and store phone numbers as 10-digit numbers (always include the area code, even if the number is local)
• Update your equipment if needed to ensure it is programmed for 10-digit dialing (for example: fax machines, medical alert devices, alarm systems, voicemail, and call forwarding settings)
• Ensure that all personal and business items include your area code (for example: pet ID tags, business cards, and advertising material)

What remains the same?

The following will remain the same for customers nationwide:

• Your current telephone number
• The price of a call, coverage area or other rates
• What is considered a local call
• The way you dial a phone number (you will still use 10-digit dialing for local calls, and 1+10 digits for long distance)
• Dialing existing 3-digit numbers such as 911, 211, 311, and so on

If you have questions…

If you have questions regarding this notice, please visit the Arizona Corporation Commission website.