507 Area Code Update: What You Need to Know
Introduction
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has officially designated 507 as the new area code for the Rochester, Minnesota area. This change will take effect on October 28, 2023, and will impact all landlines and mobile phone numbers within the designated area.
Reasons for the New Area Code
The implementation of the new area code is primarily driven by the increasing demand for phone numbers in the Rochester area. The existing 507 area code, which covers the entire southern part of Minnesota, has been in use since 1947 and is nearing exhaustion.
Impact on Residents
Residents within the 507 area code will experience several changes as a result of the new area code:
- All landlines and mobile numbers will require the new 507 area code when making local calls.
- When calling outside the 507 area code, residents will need to dial 1+507 followed by the seven-digit phone number.
- Emergency numbers (911, 988, etc.) will not change.
Timeline for Implementation
The new area code will be implemented in a phased approach:
- October 28, 2023: New phone numbers assigned within the 507 area code will require the new area code.
- April 28, 2025: All landlines and mobile numbers within the 507 area code will be required to use the new area code.
Additional Information
For more information on the new 507 area code, residents can visit the FCC's website or contact their local phone service provider.
Conclusion
The implementation of the 507 area code is a significant change for the Rochester, Minnesota area. Residents should be aware of the upcoming changes and take steps to ensure a smooth transition.