Mandatory 10-Digit Dialing

October 26, 2021

Recently there has been media coverage explaining how Iowans in the 515/319 area codes will be required to dial 10 digits.

The FCC ordered that any area code that has the 988 prefix and has 7-digit local dialing be transitioned to 10-digit local dialing to ensure everyone is able to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline using the 3-digit 988 code. Customers must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach the Lifeline until July 16, 2022.

Learn More Here: Mandatory 10-Digit Dialing Website

Mandatory 10-Digit Dialing FAQs

Does this apply to Iowa?
Yes. Implementation of this Order requires all covered providers to make 10-digit dialing mandatory for all local calls in the Iowa 319 and 515 area codes.

Why is the local dialing plan changing?
On July 16, 2020, the FCC adopted an Order (FCC 20-100) approving 988 as the 3-digit abbreviated dialing code to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, starting July 16, 2022. Customers must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach the Lifeline until July 16, 2022.

Why is 10-digit dialing going to be required in this area code?
The FCC ordered that any area code that has the 988 prefix and has 7-digit local dialing be transitioned to 10-digit local dialing to ensure everyone is able to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline using the 3-digit 988 code. For 988 to work in the Iowa 319 and 515 area codes, 10-digit local dialing must first be implemented.

Will everyone in the 319 and 515 area codes have to dial 10 digits for local calls?
Yes. Every customer with a number from the 319 and 515 area codes will change to mandatory 10-digit dialing for local calls. Dialing 7 digits for local calls will be prohibited for all customers in the entire area code.

What will be the new dialing procedure?
To complete local calls, the new dialing procedure requires callers to dial the area code + telephone number. This means that all local calls in the entire 319 and 515 area codes that are currently dialed with 7 digits will need to be dialed using the area code + telephone number.

When will the dialing change begin?
Beginning April 24, 2021, you should start dialing 10 digits (area code + telephone number) for all local calls.