10-digit local calling, additional area code, coming to Triad. State officials approved a second area code for the Piedmont Triad that will overlay the current 336 code. The new 743 overlay for area code will be implemented before all numbers in that area code are exhausted, expected to be in 2016.

Officials from the North Carolina Utilities Commission announced on Wednesday, August 20th, 2014 that the 743 area code has been approved for use. Local phone providers will provide details later on when the new area code will start, commission officials said. The new area code will mean all local calls will require 10-digit dialing. However, local calls with both area codes will remain free.

Customers who already have 336 numbers will be allowed to keep them. The new area code will be used primarily for issuing new numbers. The new area code is needed because all available 336 numbers are expected to be used up by 2016, commission officials said. The Raleigh and Charlotte areas already have two overlay area codes.

Approved on August 13, 2014 by the North Carolina Utilities Commission, the 743 area code will be introduced as the relief method for existing area code 336, covering a northern portion of North Carolina with cities such as Greensboro, Winston-Salem and smaller towns like Burlington, Mount Airy or Trinity. The newly approved NPA will overlay 336 (will serve the exact same area).

After a 6 month permissive dialing period, when local calls within area code 336 may be dialed using both 7 and 10 digits, 10 digit dialing becomes mandatory in April, 2016.

Key dates

• October 24, 2015 – start of permissive 7/10 digit dialing period
• April 23, 2016 – end of permissive dialing period
• May 23, 2016 – area code 743 enters service

References to learn More at North America Numbering Plan Administration