Calling the United States: your guide to the US country code (+1)

Calling a friend in New York, a colleague in California, or a business in Chicago can be more straightforward than you think. The first step is to master the United States country code +1, which is the key to connecting your call. For anyone outside the US, understanding the correct dialling format, area codes, and common mistakes is essential for a successful connection.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dialling a US phone number from anywhere in the world.

What's the country calling code for the United States?

The country calling code for the United States is +1. This code is a universal identifier that tells a phone network your call is destined for the US.

The +1 code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which also covers countries like Canada and several Caribbean nations. When you're calling the US from another country, you must dial this code at the beginning of every phone number.

On a mobile phone, the plus symbol (+) is a universal stand-in for your own country's international exit code, which means the +1 format will work automatically. If you're using a traditional landline phone, you'll need to replace the + with the specific exit code of the country you're calling from.

Your step-by-step guide to the US phone number dialling code

Making a successful call to the US involves combining a few key components in the correct order. By following this simple guide, you can ensure your call connects on the first try.

• For landline phones: to call a US number from a landline, you must first dial your country's international exit code, followed by the US country code (1), the 3-digit area code, and finally the 7-digit local number

The format: exit code + 1 + area code + 7-digit local number.

For example, if you wanted to call the Los Angeles number 213-555-0123 from Australia, you'd dial: 0011 1 213 555-0123.

• For mobile phones: calling from a mobile phone is often simpler. Instead of dialling a specific exit code, you can use the + symbol, which is a universal substitute. After the + symbol, you dial the country code (1), the 3-digit area code, and the 7-digit local number.

The format: +1 + area code + 7-digit local number.

For example, to call the US mobile number 213-555-0123, you'd dial: +1 213 555-0123.

What are US area codes and why do they matter?

An area code is a 3-digit numerical prefix that routes phone calls to a specific geographical region within the United States. It's a crucial part of a phone number because it ensures your call reaches the right city, state, or territory. When calling a US number from another country, you must use the right area code to reach the right place.

Here's a breakdown of the area codes for some of the US's major cities and regions:

In the US, both landline and mobile numbers have an area code. Unlike in some countries, there's no need to remove a leading 0 as US numbers don't use this for domestic calls.

What to do if your call won’t connect

If you've tried to make a call to the US and it's not working, it's usually due to a small dialling error. Here are a few common issues to troubleshoot:

• Forgetting the country code: it's easy to accidentally skip the +1 or the 1 after the exit code. Always double-check that it's there.
• Using the wrong exit code: when calling from a landline, ensure you're using the correct exit code for the country you're in. Using the + symbol on a mobile phone eliminates this error. If you're calling from Australia, the exit code will be 0011.
• Time zone differences: the continental US spans 4 time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific). Make sure you're calling at a convenient time for the person you're trying to reach.

Staying safe: US emergency numbers

While hopefully you'll never need them, it's a good idea to know the emergency numbers for the US in case you or someone you know needs urgent assistance while there. The main emergency number for police, fire, or ambulances is 911. This number costs nothing to call from any phone in the US.

There's also a second emergency number, 112, that works in Europe as well as in the US on most mobile networks. For non-emergency police matters, many cities use 311. For a comprehensive list of emergency and non-emergency services, you can check the official US government website.

Beyond traditional calls: staying connected with apps

With the rise of smartphones and the internet, many people now use data-based apps to make calls and send messages. Services like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Facebook Messenger allow you to make voice and video calls over an internet connection, normally at no extra cost beyond your data plan.

The biggest challenge with these apps is securing a reliable internet connection. You'll need access to strong WiFi or an affordable data plan. This is where a Revolut eSIM can be a game-changer. Rather than facing expensive roaming charges from your usual phone provider, an international eSIM gives you an affordable and reliable data plan without needing a physical SIM card. You simply buy the plan you need and get access to the internet on your phone.

Staying connected while abroad with Revolut

High roaming costs can make staying in touch while you travel an expensive exercise. A simple and effective way to avoid this is with a travel-friendly data solution like an eSIM from Revolut. An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to get a mobile data plan without needing a physical SIM card. This means you can get quick access to data in a new country and use your favourite apps to stay in contact.

We offer a range of eSIM products depending on your travel plans, including a global eSIM, a dedicated US eSIM, and a North America eSIM. With an eSIM, you can avoid worrying about finding a local SIM card provider or dealing with unpredictable roaming fees, giving you one less thing to think about on your journey.

In addition to eSIMs, we offer several other features that are perfect for travellers. You can hold and exchange currencies in-app at great rates, so you're always ready to pay in the local currency. You can also use your Revolut card to spend around the world, and our budgeting tools help you keep track of your expenses in real-time. All of these features are designed to make managing your money simpler, giving you more freedom to enjoy your trip.

Frequently asked questions about the US calling code

Which country uses +1 as a calling code?

The country code +1 is used for the United States, as well as Canada and a number of Caribbean nations that are part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).

What's the difference between +1 and 001?

Both +1 and 001 are used as US country codes. The main difference is that +1 is a universal format used on mobile phones, where the + automatically translates to the correct exit code for your location. The 001 format is specific to landlines, where 00 is the exit code for most of Europe.

Is there a difference between calling a US mobile or landline?

No, unlike some countries, there's no difference in the dialling format. The format for both is +1 + area code + 7-digit local number.

What happens if I forget the area code?

Your call won't connect properly. The area code is a mandatory part of the US dialling format for both landlines and mobiles.

Is it possible to call the US without fees?

Making no-fee calls is usually possible through internet-based apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, as long as you have a stable WiFi or mobile data connection. These calls use your data plan rather than your phone's traditional calling minutes, so you avoid per-minute charges. Another good reason to look for an eSIM data plan.

Get started with Revolut

Ready to simplify your travel and stay connected on your next adventure? It all starts with a few taps:

1. Download the app: simply download the Revolut app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Get an eSIM: once you've signed up and set up your account, you can quickly get an eSIM for data access. Tap the eSIM button on the bottom menu, then choose your plan and purchase it with your account balance. Follow the simple in-app steps to install and activate your eSIM.
3. Explore other travel products: you can also explore all our other travel products, which are designed to simplify your journey and make managing your money easier.

The information provided is accurate as of 15 September 2025.

T&Cs apply.