---
title: "What is Area code?"
url: "https://lookvalid.com/glossary/area-code.md"
canonical_url: "https://lookvalid.com/glossary/area-code"
last_updated: "2026-10-18"
type: "conceptual"
summary: "An area code is the first three digits of a North American phone number, assigned to a geographic region such as part of a state or province."
related: ["https://lookvalid.com/glossary/nanp.md", "https://lookvalid.com/glossary/number-portability.md", "https://lookvalid.com/glossary/e164.md", "https://lookvalid.com/products/phone.md"]
---

# What is Area code?

An area code is the first three digits of a North American phone number, assigned to a geographic region such as part of a state or province.

Some regions have several area codes laid over the same territory, called overlays, which is why a city can have more than one. Large states have dozens of codes.

An area code shows where a number was first assigned. People keep their number when they move or change provider, so it is a weak signal of where someone is today.

## Related

- [What is NANP (North American Numbering Plan)?](https://lookvalid.com/glossary/nanp.md)
- [What is Number portability?](https://lookvalid.com/glossary/number-portability.md)
- [What is E.164?](https://lookvalid.com/glossary/e164.md)
- [Phone Numbering-Plan Validation API](https://lookvalid.com/products/phone.md)