United States Country Code: A Quick Guide for Travelers

Whether you're planning a road trip across Route 66, attending a business meeting in New York, or simply trying to stay connected with friends back home, knowing how to dial phone numbers correctly is essential.

One small detail that often gets overlooked—but can make a big difference—is the country code. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the United States country code, how to use it, and why it matters when you’re traveling.

What Is the Country Code for the United States?

The country has a phone code of +1. It’s one of the most common phone codes in the world, as it’s not just limited to the United States and its 50 states, but also to American territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

When dialing a U.S. phone number when outside the U.S., you’ll always start with +1 and then the three digit area code followed by the seven digit phone number. For instance, to call Los Angeles it might appear this way: +1 310 555 1234.

Note that Canada and many Caribbean countries all fall under the same country code (they’re part of the North American Numbering Plan — NANP). So if you're dialing +1, it could reach the U.S.—or one of its close neighbors, depending on the rest of the number.

How to Call the United States from Abroad

Dialing the United States from abroad is easy once you understand the correct dialing sequence. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Dial your country’s exit code - This signals your phone system that you’re dialing abroad. For instance, the exit code is 00 in most of Europe, 011 in Canada and Mexico, and 0011 in Australia. 

2. Enter the U.S. country code - That’s +1.

3. Dial the area code - A 3-digit number that stands for a particular city or region within the U.S.

4. Finish with the local number - This is typically a 7-digit code.

Example:

For example, if you were in the UK and wanted to call a New York City (212) number: 00 1 212 555 1234

If you’re on a cell phone, you can also just being the number with a plus (+): +1 212 555 1234

How to Call International Numbers While in the U.S.

Calling a number located outside the United States occurs in a different manner, but it is just as simple once you know how it’s done. Here’s how:

1. Dial the U.S. exit code: 011 - This will tell the system that you’re trying to reach beyond just their borders.

2. Enter the country code - For instance, the UK is 44 and Japan is 81.

3. Dial the area code (if needed) - Country-wise, there are codes for cities or areas.

4. Finish with the local number.

Example:

To call a London number from the United States, you’d dial: 011 44 20 7946 1234

If you’re using a mobile app, such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice, you can typically leave off the 011 and simply add the + sign.

U.S. Area Codes and How They Work

In the United States, phone numbers are arranged by area codes — three-digit codes that designate regions. These codes appear after the international country code (+1) and are necessary for directing the call to the appropriate area.

Several big cities have multiple area codes as a result of the demand, and new area codes are constantly being introduced throughout the country. Remember that area codes aren’t just for landlines but mobile phones as well.

If there is a certain person you’re trying to contact, ensure you know what area code they are in. You can try searching for more information online.

The table below lists some commonly used area codes in the United States:

Tips for International Travelers

Staying connected in the U.S. when you travel doesn’t have to be difficult as long as you plan ahead. Here’s some advice to ensure your phone calls go smoothly:

• Save contacts in international format: Make sure when you are inputting numbers in your phone they are stored in +1 format. When you do this, calls and messages will still go through if you change networks or SIM cards.

• App it: Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime Audio allow you to make peer-to-peer voice and video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data without eating into your minutes. It’s awesome for keeping in touch without paying those roaming rates.

• Use an eSIM or travel SIM: Avoid expensive international roaming by using travel eSIMs like iRoamly or Holafly. They give you cheap local data and calling rates, and you can always set it up online.

• Understand your cell phone provider’s policy: If you’re keeping your SIM card and knowing the provider’s terms, you can contact them directly to find out what’s available and the cost. Some providers offer either daily travel passes or affordable international roaming plans.

With some planning, you can make phone calls, send texts, and use data without any issues — no matter where you are in the U.S.

FAQ

1. How do I make a call from France to the United States?

It begins with France’s international dialing code, 00. Then, dial +1, plus the area code in the United States, and the five-digit local number.

2. What should I discuss with my mobile provider before traveling?

Ask about international roaming. If you let them know your destination ahead of time, they can usually advise you on the best plan for your stay. This may keep you from finding a surprising change on your phone bill later on!

Conclusion

That’s it for this guide. I hope you now feel confident about calling both to and from the United States. The U.S. country code is like a secret key that helps you communicate more easily with people back home and abroad.

By knowing this code, you can feel more prepared to reach your destination, wherever that may be. Whether you’re at home or traveling, simply keep the above steps and advice in mind to stay connected and become a better-informed traveler.

Bon voyage, and safe calling!