What is the country code for the USA?

The country code of the USA is 1. 

There are two country codes used to call an American phone number: +1 and 001. These codes are assigned by the telecommunication system in the USA to ensure smooth communication for users for both local and international calls.

If you have been trying to call an American number and want to know what the telephone country code for the USA is,  this blog is for you. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about the area and country codes in the USA. 

Country code for the USA: Overview

• USA’s country code is 1.
• 001 can also be used in place of +1 to dial a US-based number. 
• If you want to call a number, after the country code, add the USA area code, which is a three-digit number and finally, the local phone number. For example, to call a friend in Manhattan, you need to dial +1212 426 XXXX from your cell phone or landline. 

What are country codes?

Country codes, ISD codes, or simply country telephone codes are the prefixes used before a telephone number of a specific region or country. These codes are defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and are used to enable international direct dialling (IDD). 

Country codes are an integral part of the telecommunications industry. They are only used at the time of dialling an international number in a region or country other than the caller’s. These codes are dialled before the actual number. 

Examples of country code

What are the USA area codes?

Areas codes refer to the prefixes used in telephone numbers to designate a specific area or region of calling. Different areas in the USA have at least one or multiple area codes for all the phone numbers in a specific area. 

Some of the most common USA area codes are as follows:

Also Read: U.S. Citizenship for Indians 2024: A step-by-step guide

What does a USA phone number look like?

When you are in the USA and try to call a person in the USA, you need to dial the standard 10-digit mobile number. The phone numbers in America have ten digits in the format (XXX)-XXX-XXXX. Here, the first 3-digits are the area code, and the remaining 7-digits make the phone number. 

However, if you are calling from outside the USA, the number looks like this:

• 00 – exit code for calling from outside the USA. 
• 1 – USA’s country code is 1.
• 3-digit area code (for ex. 202 for Washington DC)
• 7-digit American mobile number (for ex. 939 9889 for the Indian Embassy in the USA)

Taking the above example, you need to dial 0012029399889 to call the Indian Embassy in the USA from any other country. 

How to call the USA from a landline?

Step 1: Enter the country code for the USA

The very first step is to enter the dialling code in the USA or the USA country code for the phone along with the exit code, that is, enter 001. 

Step 2: Enter the area codes for the USA

Next, enter the area code of the US region you are trying to connect to. As mentioned above, different areas or regions in the USA have different codes assigned to them. These codes are utilized in telecommunications to identify the specific region where the communication is occurring.

So, if you are trying to call in New York, you need to enter the NY area code (specific to the area in NY), i.e. 212 for Manhattan or 917 for New York City. 

Step 3: Enter the local phone number

Finally, enter the 7-digit American mobile number after the sequence. That’s all. Now, hit the call button, and you connect with a phone number in the USA.

Also Read: Cost of living in the USA 

How to call the USA from a cell phone?

Step 1: Enter the USA country code for the phone number

On your mobile dial pad, enter 001 or +1. You can dial +1 as it is the recognised international country telephone code for the USA. As mentioned before, both of these are the USA country codes. 

Step 2: Enter the area code

Next, similar to the above process, enter the area code of the American city or state you are dialling to. For example, enter 206 if you are trying to call Seattle. 

Step 3: Enter the local mobile number

Now, add the seven-digit mobile number. If you are unsure about the given American mobile number, then make sure to remove any additional numbers preceding the last seven digits. 

Calling USA for free

Thanks to mobile technology, it is possible to call anyone, anywhere in the world, anytime. However, the international calling feature comes at a cost, often higher than the domestic calling plans. Interestingly, there is a way by which you can call the USA for absolutely free. It is none other than the internet calling. 

If you have internet connectivity, you can call the USA or any other country without requiring an international calling plan. Some of the best platforms that enable you to call the USA for free are as follows:

WhatsApp: As we all know, WhatsApp is one of the most popular social networking applications that allows you to exchange instant messages from any part of the world. You can use the WhatsApp calling feature to call the USA for free. For this, ensure that WhatsApp is installed on both parties’ devices.

FaceTime: FaceTime is another application using which you can call a USA number for free. For those who don’t know, FaceTime is a video calling feature that comes in Apple devices. If both parties are using an Apple iPhone or Notepad or computer, then they can connect on FaceTime for free. 

Skype: Skype is mainly used for professional networking. But you can also use it to conduct free video calls to anyone in the USA or any other part of the world. 

Google Duo: If both the caller and the callee have a Google account, they can carry out free video calls on Google Duo. 

Facebook Messenger: The Facebook Messenger application can also be used for free international calling. Again, both parties must be using the messenger to use the free calling feature. 

Also read: 8 free calling and chat apps for expats in Asia

Why did my call to the USA not work?

There can be multiple reasons why your call to the US is not working. Some of the most common problems are as follows:

• Network issues: This is the most common issue behind why some people are unable to place an international call. If your mobile networks are weak, then you might not be able to make a call to the USA or anywhere else. 
• Blocked international calling: Some mobile operators keep the blocking feature on for international calls. If this feature is enabled on your phone or other device, you cannot place a call to the USA. 
• No international calling plan: If you don’t have an international calling plan, then you might not be able to call a USA number. You need to purchase a suitable plan for international calling. 
• Wrong area/country code: Finally, a wrong or outdated area/country code can also stop you from calling the USA. 

What Is the Best Time to Call the USA?

• Don’t call in the early mornings or late at night: If you are calling from a country with a different time zone than the USA, then be very careful about the timings. Refer to the USA timezone and place the call accordingly. Avoid calling very early in the morning or too late at night. 
• Avoid calling on holidays: This tip applies to those who want to make business-related calls. Always make sure to call during the working days and working hours. 
• Leave working hours: If you want to make a general call for any reason other than professional, then avoid calling during working hours as they might disturb the callee. 
• Check weekdays and weekends: If you want to make a call to the USA for professional reasons, then make sure to call during the weekdays. However, for making general calls to your family or friends, weekends are recommended. 

USA – Emergency Numbers

In the United States, different emergency numbers are assigned to different types of emergencies. The primary emergency number for instant assistance is 911. 911 is an emergency number that can be used whenever you want an immediate response for medical emergencies, police, fire accidents, or any other kind of situation you need help with. 

The USA also has several other emergency numbers, as listed below:

• National Suicide Prevention: 1-800-273-TALK; you can call this number if you or someone you know is going through suicidal thoughts. Alternatively, you can also call 988, which is a hotline introduced for the same in 2022. 
• Poison Control Centre: In case of poison consumption or exposure, you can call 1-800-222-1222. 
• National Sexual Assault Helpline: If you or someone in your knowledge is going through this crisis, then you can call 1-800-656-HOPE. 
• Animal Poison Control Centre: If your pet has ingested or been exposed to poison, then you can get immediate assistance by calling (888)426-4435.

Also Read: How to get a job in the USA from India

Sending and receiving money in the USA

Just like using the correct USA country code is essential to make a call to the USA from abroad, using the right money transfer platform is crucial for overseas funds transfer. For example, If you want to send money to India from the USA (or from the USA to India), make sure to use a reputed fund-transfer platform like Instarem. 

Money transfer platforms like Instarem have made payments across borders simple and secure. Be it affordable# exchange rates, fast transfers**, or secure financial transactions, Instarem provides everything to help you achieve a seamless fund transfer experience. 

Try Instarem for your next transfer.

Download the app or sign up here.

Also Read: Average salary in the USA 

FAQs

Q. How can I call the USA for free?

For free USA calls, use apps like WhatsApp or Skype when both parties are online. If connected to Wi-Fi or with an internet pack, no extra international calling charges apply.

Q. What is the 3-digit code for the USA?

The three-digit code for the USA is 001. You need to dial it before the USA number you want to connect with. For example, if the number is (999)-135-XXX, then you need to dial 001999-135-XXX.

Q. Is the USA country code +1 or 001?

Both 001 and +1 are recognised as the country codes for the United States. It means you can either use 001 or +1 before the local USA number to make a call from a country abroad.

Q. How do I enter a US country code?

Using the country code is simple. All you need to do is dial +1 or 001 before the actual USA number. For example, if you wish to call a friend in San Francisco, you can dial:

• 001 or +1
• Then, the San Francisco area code, that is 415
• Next, enter the local 7-digit local number.

It will look something like this: +1415 656 XXXX or 001415 656 XXXX

Q. How much does it cost to call a Canadian number?

The total cost of calling a Canadian number depends on various factors such as your mobile network operator, plan, country from where you are calling and so on. Thus, it is advisable to get in touch with your service provider to learn about the exact cost. If you are looking for a cost-effective way to call Canada, then consider the internet calling option available on online messengers and applications like FaceTime, Skype, or WhatsApp.

Q. What is the USA country code for WhatsApp?

There is no separate USA country code for WhatsApp. You can use the standard code, i.e. +1 or 001.

Disclaimers:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with products or vendors mentioned.

* Fast meaning 75% of our transactions are completed in 15 minutes. Depending on the funding method.

#When it comes to affordable exchange rates and fees, it’s worth noting that the cost will vary depending on how you choose to fund your transactions. Credit card funding and bank transfer fees can differ significantly.