New 457 Area Code Joins 318 Region: What Northern Louisiana Needs to Know
Starting this month, residents in northern Louisiana will need to adjust how they dial local calls. The Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) announced that beginning August 25, 2025, 10-digit dialing will become mandatory in the 318 area code region, which covers communities such as Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe, Alexandria, and Ruston.
This change comes with the introduction of a new 457 area code, created to meet growing demand for telephone numbers across the region. The 457 will not replace 318 but will operate alongside it in what’s called an overlay.
What Stays the Same for Louisiana Callers
Current numbers will not change. A local call will still be a local call, and call prices or service coverage will not be affected. Emergency services remain accessible with three-digit dialing for 911, 988, and other short-code services like 211 and 811.
What Changes
- All local calls must be dialed with the full 10 digits (area code + phone number).
- New lines or services activated after September 25, 2025, may receive a 457 number.
- Calls dialed with only seven digits after August 25 will not go through.
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Preparing for the Switch in Louisiana
The LPSC urges residents and businesses to double-check their systems and printed materials. Any programmed services that use seven-digit dialing, such as security systems, medical monitoring devices, fax machines, voicemail, or call forwarding, should be updated to include the area code. Businesses are encouraged to update websites, stationery, advertising, and ID tags to ensure phone numbers are listed in the 10-digit format.
Why It Matters for Louisiana Callers
Northern Louisiana is growing, and so is the demand for new numbers. By introducing the 457 area code, the LPSC ensures residents and businesses will continue to have access to reliable phone service without forcing current 318 users to change their numbers.