On March 19, 2016, all consumers in central Indiana’s 317 telephone area code are encouraged to start using ten digits, rather than seven, to make local phone calls. (For example, callers should start dialing “317-555-5555” instead of “555-5555.”) This will help consumers ease into the upcoming transition to mandatory 10-digit dialing for local calls within the 317 area code.
Local calls made with seven digits will still work through Sept. 16, 2016, to give consumers in the 317 area ample time to adjust to the new dialing pattern and to make any required system changes before 10-digit dialing becomes mandatory for local calls.
The change to 10-digit dialing is necessary so the new 463 area code can be added to the region this fall. The new area code will “overlay” the entire 317 region. The “overlay” method has been used for all new area code additions in the United States since 2008, including the 812/930 overlay implemented in Southern Indiana last year. With the overlay, consumers are not required to change their existing phone numbers.
The 317/463 overlay is being implemented in response to projections that all numbering supplies for 317 will be exhausted by the end of this year. To ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers, the new 463 area code will be superimposed over the entire 317 region, which includes Indianapolis and most of its suburbs.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) approved the 317/463 overlay in April 2015, following a nine-month case that included a lengthy public comment period and five public field hearings throughout the Indianapolis metropolitan area. The telecommunications industry and the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) filed testimony supporting the overlay method. Since April 2015, the area’s telecommunications service providers have worked together to ensure that the implementation of the 317/463 overlay runs smoothly.
Timeframe and Guidance for Consumers in the 317/463 Area
Starting on Sept. 17, 2016, you must use 10-digit dialing for all local phone calls. After this date, if you do not use the new dialing procedures, your call will not be completed and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again.
Beginning Oct. 17, 2016, numbers assigned for new telephone lines or services in the 317 region may include the new 463 area code.
