Residents and businesses in central Arizona, including large parts of the Phoenix metropolitan area, will soon see a new area code. To address the shrinking supply of available phone numbers in the 602 and 480 area codes, the Arizona Corporation Commission has approved the introduction of the new 982 area code.
This article provides essential information about the upcoming 982 area code, explaining why it’s being introduced, how it will be implemented, and what changes residents need to be aware of.
Why is a New Area Code Necessary?
The primary reason for the new 982 area code is the continuous growth in population and the proliferation of devices that require a phone number. From cell phones and tablets to business lines and IoT devices, the demand for numbers in the existing 602 and 480 area codes has nearly exhausted the available supply.
Introducing the 982 area code ensures that there will be a continuing supply of telephone numbers to serve new homes, businesses, and services throughout the region for years to come.
Understanding the Overlay Implementation
The new 982 area code will be implemented using the “overlay” method, which has become the standard for introducing new area codes across the country. Here is what the overlay means for you:
- Geographic Area: The 982 area code will serve the same geographic territory currently covered by the 480 and 602 area codes. This primarily includes Phoenix and its eastern and northern suburbs like Scottsdale, Tempe, and Glendale.
- Keep Your Existing Number: If your current phone number has a 480 or 602 area code, you will not have to change it. Your number will remain the same.
- New Numbers May Be 982: Starting from the implementation date, new phone lines or services may be assigned a number with the 982 area code. This means you could have neighbors or even family members in the same household with a different area code.
This method avoids the significant disruption of an area code “split,” which would require half the region to adopt a new area code for their existing numbers.
The Major Change: Mandatory 10-Digit Dialing
The most significant adjustment for everyone in the affected areas is the transition to mandatory 10-digit dialing for all local calls. Because three area codes (480, 602, and the new 982 area code) will now serve the same region, dialing just seven digits for a local call will no longer work.
Key Dialing Information:
- All local calls must be dialed using the full 10-digit number (Area Code + Telephone Number).
- This applies to all calls within and between the 480, 602, and 982 area codes.
- Long-distance calls will continue to be dialed with 1 + the 10-digit number.
- Important three-digit numbers like 911 (emergency), 411 (directory assistance), and 988 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) will not be affected.
How to Prepare
It is crucial for residents and businesses to prepare for this change to ensure a smooth transition. Key steps include:
- Update Contact Lists: Reprogram all contacts in your mobile phone, address books, and computer records to include the full 10-digit number.
- Check Automatic Dialing Equipment: Ensure that systems like medical alert devices, security alarms, and other automated dialing equipment are programmed with 10-digit numbers.
- Revise Business Materials: Update all business stationery, advertising, websites, and personal checks to reflect your full 10-digit phone number.
The introduction of the 982 area code is a sign of the continued growth and dynamism of central Arizona. By preparing for 10-digit dialing now, you can ensure your communication services continue without interruption.
