If you have a missed call or are looking to contact someone using the 506 area code, you are reaching the Canadian Maritimes. Area Code 506 is the telephone area code for the entire Canadian province of New Brunswick.
It is one of Canada’s oldest area codes, serving all cities and communities within the province. Due to growing demand, 506 operates under an overlay with the newer 428 area code, making 10-digit dialing mandatory for all calls within the province.
This comprehensive guide details the geographical coverage, key cities, time zone, and essential dialing information for the 506 area code.
Area Code 506 Location and Coverage
The 506 area code was established in 1955, originally serving all of New Brunswick and Newfoundland before those provinces split into their own area codes. Today, it remains the primary geographic code for New Brunswick.
Key Facts About 506
| Detail | Information |
| Location | New Brunswick, Canada (Entire Province) |
| Time Zone | Atlantic Time (AT) – UTC-4:00 (Observes Daylight Saving Time) |
| Overlay Code | 428 (Added in 2023) |
| Country Code | +1 (Part of the North American Numbering Plan) |
Major Cities Served by 506 and 428
The 506 and 428 area codes cover all of the major economic and political centers in the province:
- Fredericton (Provincial Capital)
- Moncton (Commercial and Transportation Hub)
- Saint John (Industrial and Port City)
- Dieppe
- Bathurst
- Miramichi
Mandatory 10-Digit Dialing and the 428 Overlay
The introduction of the 428 area code as an overlay in 2023 was necessary because the supply of available 506 numbers was becoming exhausted.
- Overlay Rule: The 428 area code serves the same geographic territory as 506. Any customer getting a new phone line may be assigned a number in either the 506 or 428 prefix.
- Dialing Rule: 10-digit dialing is mandatory for all calls within New Brunswick. You must always dial the Area Code (506 or 428) + the 7-digit local number, even if the number is in the same town or uses the same area code.
Time Zone and International Call Cost
Time Zone
The 506 area code is located in the Atlantic Time Zone (AT). It observes Daylight Saving Time, switching between Atlantic Standard Time (AST) in the winter and Atlantic Daylight Time (ADT) in the summer.
- Time Difference: Atlantic Time is one hour ahead of the US Eastern Time Zone (ET). (e.g., If it is 2:00 PM EST in New York, it is 3:00 PM AST/ADT in Fredericton).
Scam and Safety Risk
As a Canadian area code, 506 is part of the +1 country code. This makes it a frequent target for scammers who use neighbor spoofing to make calls appear local to Canadian residents.
- Scam Tactic: Fraudulent callers often impersonate the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or technical support, threatening arrest or legal action.
Safety Tip: If you receive an unsolicited call from a 506 number, especially one claiming to be the CRA, do not engage or provide information. Hang up and verify the call by looking up the official CRA number on the Canada.ca website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a US area code 506?
No. The 506 area code is assigned to New Brunswick, Canada. The digits 506 are not currently used as an area code within the United States. However, the international country code +506 belongs to Costa Rica.
Why do I have to dial 10 digits for local calls in New Brunswick?
10-digit dialing became mandatory in New Brunswick to prepare for the introduction of the new 428 area code overlay. This ensures that every phone number has a unique 10-digit identifier.
Is calling 506 from the US considered long-distance?
Yes, calling any Canadian area code (including 506) from the US requires the +1 country code and is considered an international long-distance call. However, most major US mobile carriers include Canada in their unlimited calling plans. Always check your specific plan rates.
Conclusion
The Area Code 506 is the unified identity for the entire province of New Brunswick, Canada. When communicating with the region, remember the mandatory 10-digit dialing rule and be aware of the 428 overlay, which ensures the continued supply of local phone numbers for the Maritimes.
