INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission recently issued an Order setting in motion the eventual roll-out of a new area code for Central Indiana. Without area code relief, the 317 area code would run out of numbers in the second quarter of 2017. Under the terms of the Commission’s Order, the new area code overlay will become effective in late spring 2016. The new area code will be 463, which spells “IND” on the telephone keypad.
An area code overlay allows a new area code to be assigned over the same geographic area as an existing area code. This way, existing customers with a 317 area code will be able to keep their phone numbers along with their current area code. Once the new 463 area code overlay is effective, customers seeking a new phone number may be assigned a phone number with either a 463 or a 317 area code. The new 463 area code will not change long distance calling. Local calling areas do not change when a new area code is established.
The biggest change for customers will be mandatory 10-digit dialing. Once the area code overlay is effective, 10-digit dialing will be required for all local calls (three-digit area code + seven-digit phone number). Customers will continue to dial a “1” plus the 10-digit phone number for long distance calls.
For more information on area code relief and to view updates on the implementation plan, please visit www.in.gov/iurc/2808.htm.