Trying to reach someone in the United States from another country? The USA country code is simpler than you might think, but getting the format wrong can leave you staring at a phone that just won't connect.
Whether you're an expat missing home, a business professional scheduling that important conference call, or a traveller trying to sort out logistics, understanding how to dial the US correctly will save you time, money, and a fair bit of frustration.
The United States shares its country code system with Canada and several Caribbean nations, which creates some unique considerations you won't find with other countries. Let's break down exactly what you need to know to connect successfully every time.
What is the country code for the USA?
The USA country code is 1. You might also see it written as 001, but these represent the same thing - both are correct ways to reference America's international dialing code.
This "1" code covers not just the United States, but also Canada and many Caribbean countries as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). When dialling from overseas, you'll use this single digit followed by the area code and phone number.
Here's what a complete international call looks like: Your country's exit code + 1 + area code + phone number
Example from the UK to New York: 00-1-212-555-0123
How to call the USA from abroad: step-by-step
International calling might seem complicated, but it follows the same pattern worldwide. Here's your roadmap:
Step 1: Find your country's exit code
Different countries use different codes to "exit" their domestic system:
- UK, most of Europe: 00
- Australia: 0011
- Japan: 010
- Brazil: 0015
- China: 00
Step 2: Add the US country code (1)
After your exit code, always dial 1 for the United States.
Step 3: Include the area code
US area codes are always three digits. Don't skip this, even mobile numbers need their area code when calling from abroad.
Step 4: Dial the local number
US phone numbers have seven digits after the area code.
Complete format examples:
- From UK to Los Angeles: 00-1-310-555-7890
- From Australia to Miami: 0011-1-305-555-2468
- From Japan to Chicago: 010-1-312-555-9876
Most modern phones let you replace your country's exit code with +, making it even easier: +1-310-555-7890
What are the area codes in the USA?
Area codes are three-digit numbers that identify specific geographic regions within the US. Originally designed when operators manually connected calls, they now help route your call to the right part of the country.
Each major city typically has multiple area codes due to population growth and the explosion of mobile devices. Here are the most commonly searched codes:
Pro tip: Mobile numbers keep their original area code even when people move, so a 212 number doesn't guarantee someone is actually in Manhattan.
How to format a US phone number correctly
US phone numbers follow a standard structure, but the formatting changes depending on how you're using them:
Domestic US format:
(XXX) XXX-XXXX or XXX-XXX-XXXX Example: (555) 123-4567 or 555-123-4567
International format:
+1-XXX-XXX-XXXX Example: +1-555-123-4567
When writing for international audiences:
Always include the country code (+1) and use hyphens or spaces for clarity. Avoid parentheses around area codes in international contexts - they can confuse overseas callers.
The total length is consistent: 10 digits after the country code, with the first three being the area code.
Common mistakes when calling the US
Even experienced international callers stumble over these frequent errors:
Forgetting the exit code: Dialing 1-555-123-4567 instead of 00-1-555-123-4567 (from most countries)
Skipping the country code: Assuming you can dial just the area code and number
Wrong exit code: Using 011 (US/Canada exit code) when calling FROM other countries TO the US
Missing area codes: Trying to dial just the seven-digit local number
Carrier restrictions: Not realising your phone plan blocks international calls by default
Quick fix checklist:
Before giving up on a failed call, verify you've included: your country's exit code, the number "1", the complete area code, and all seven digits of the local number.
Can you call the USA for free?
Yes, just not the traditional way. Here are several alternatives that cost nothing beyond your internet data:
Internet-based calling options:
WhatsApp: Popular worldwide, works for both voice and video calls to US numbers
FaceTime: Perfect if both parties use Apple devices
Google Voice/Google Meet: Free calling between accounts
Facebook Messenger: Voice and video calling through the app
Viber: Good call quality with wide device compatibility
What you need:
- Reliable internet connection (Wi-Fi preferred to avoid data charges)
- Both parties must have the same app installed
- Account setup on your chosen platform
The reality check:
While these services are "free," call quality depends entirely on internet speed. For important business calls, traditional phone service might be more reliable, but for casual conversations, internet calling is hard to beat.
Best time to call the USA from abroad
The United States spans multiple time zones, which affects when your call will be welcomed:
US time zones (west to east):
- Pacific Time: California, Nevada, Washington
- Mountain Time: Colorado, Arizona, Utah
- Central Time: Texas, Illinois, Louisiana
- Eastern Time: New York, Florida, Georgia
Timing recommendations:
For business calls, target 9 AM to 5 PM in the recipient's time zone, Monday through Friday. Avoid US federal holidays like Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
For personal calls, evenings (6-9 PM local time) often work well, as do weekend afternoons. Avoid very early mornings or late nights unless you know the person's schedule.
Cost considerations: Some international carriers offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours. Check with your provider about specific timing for better rates.
Use online time zone converters to double-check before important calls - there's nothing more embarrassing than waking someone up at 3 AM because you miscalculated.
Emergency numbers in the USA
If you're visiting the US or need to help someone in an emergency, these numbers work from any phone:
Primary emergency services:
911: Police, fire department, ambulance (works from mobile phones even without service)
Specialised crisis lines:
988: Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7)
1-800-222-1222: Poison Control Center
1-800-656-4673: National Sexual Assault Hotline
211: Community services and local resources
Important Notes:
Emergency services are free from any phone, including payphones and mobile devices without active service. International visitors can use these numbers just like US residents.
Wrapping up your US calling success
Calling the United States boils down to a simple formula: your exit code + 1 + area code + seven digits. Master this pattern, and you'll connect successfully whether you're calling a New York skyscraper or a small-town diner in Kansas.
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