Residents currently using the 334 area code will soon need to dial ten digits for calls, aligning with other states as the new 483 area code overlay is set to roll out next year.

To help ease into this transition, customers in the 334 area are advised to start practicing ten-digit dialing in advance of the official overlay announcement date of February 23, 2026.

The Public Service Commission (PSC) mentioned that implementing a 10-digit dialing format beforehand will give residents a chance to adapt before it becomes mandatory on January 23.

The upcoming 483 area code is intended to provide additional phone numbers to accommodate growth in the region.

According to the PSC, the original 334 area code will likely be exhausted by the third quarter of 2026.

New customers or those adding lines may find themselves assigned the new 483 area code when they activate their services.

This change will not impact existing service for those already within the 334 area code.

The PSC approved the 483 overlay on March 6, 2024, for the 334 area code, which serves a wide range of cities in Central Alabama, including Selma, Montgomery, and Auburn.

At present, Alabama has six area codes, with 483 being the seventh:

• The 205/659 overlay covers central and western parts, including Birmingham and Tuscaloosa.
• The 256/938 overlay is for northern and eastern Alabama, serving areas like Huntsville and Florence.
• 334 encompasses southern and southeastern Alabama, including cities like Auburn and Dothan.
• 251 covers southwestern Alabama, including Mobile and Gulf Shores.

The PSC clarified that dialing emergency numbers like 911 will remain unchanged.