The 817 area code is a key telephone code serving the western parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, particularly Fort Worth and its surrounding suburbs. As one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, the Fort Worth area has seen significant development, making the 817 area code an integral part of its telecommunications infrastructure. In this article, we will explore the history of the 817 area code, its geographical reach, its significance for businesses, and how it functions today in supporting the region’s continued growth.
What Is the 817 Area Code?
The 817 area code serves the Fort Worth metropolitan area and its surrounding regions in North Texas. It was introduced in 1953 as a split from the 214 area code, which originally covered the entire Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The 817 area code is used primarily in Fort Worth and neighboring suburbs, including Arlington and Grand Prairie.
Over time, the 817 area code has seen its fair share of changes, including the introduction of overlay area codes like 682. Despite these changes, the 817 area code remains an iconic part of the telecommunications landscape in the western part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
History of the 817 Area Code
The 817 area code was established on January 1, 1953, when it was split off from the original 214 area code. At that time, the 214 area code covered the entire Dallas-Fort Worth region, but as the population in North Texas grew, it became necessary to introduce a new area code to accommodate the demand for phone numbers.
Introduction of the 682 Overlay
By the early 2000s, the growing population in the Fort Worth area once again led to a shortage of available phone numbers under the 817 area code. To address this issue, the 682 area code was introduced as an overlay to the 817 area code in October 2000. This meant that both the 817 and 682 area codes would cover the same geographical region, allowing for new phone numbers to be issued without changing existing ones. The introduction of the overlay also required 10-digit dialing for all local calls within the area.
Geographical Scope of the 817 Area Code
The 817 area code primarily serves the western part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, covering Fort Worth and its surrounding suburbs. The region is known for its rapid growth, diverse economy, and mix of urban and suburban communities. The 817 area code plays a crucial role in providing telecommunications services to residents and businesses across this dynamic region.
Key Areas Served by the 817 Area Code:
- Fort Worth: The largest city served by the 817 area code, Fort Worth is known for its rich cultural heritage, strong economy, and major industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, and transportation.
- Arlington: Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington is home to major attractions such as AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and the University of Texas at Arlington. It is also a growing center for education and business.
- North Richland Hills: A suburban city located northeast of Fort Worth, North Richland Hills is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and access to major highways.
- Grand Prairie: A city located in both Dallas and Tarrant counties, Grand Prairie is a major hub for logistics, distribution, and manufacturing.
- Euless: A part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Euless is a growing suburban community known for its proximity to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.
Table: Breakdown of Cities Served by the 817 Area Code
| City in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex | Primary Area Code | Overlay Area Code |
| Fort Worth | 817 | 682 |
| Arlington | 817 | 682 |
| North Richland Hills | 817 | 682 |
| Grand Prairie | 817 | 682 |
| Euless | 817 | 682 |
The 817 and 682 area codes together cover a significant portion of the western Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, ensuring that there are sufficient phone numbers for the region’s growing population.
How to Dial the 817 Area Code
Dialing a number with the 817 area code follows standard North American dialing procedures. Since the 817 area code is overlaid with the 682 area code, 10-digit dialing is required for all local calls, even within the same area.
Dialing from the US
- Local Calls: To dial a local number with the 817 area code from within the Dallas-Fort Worth area, dial the full 10-digit number, including the 817 area code, followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., 817-123-4567).
- Long-Distance Calls: If you are calling a number with the 817 area code from outside the Dallas-Fort Worth area but within the U.S., dial 1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 817 and the 7-digit local number (e.g., 1-817-123-4567).
Dialing from Abroad
When dialing a number with the 817 area code from outside the U.S., you will need to include the international dialing code for the U.S., which is +1, followed by the 817 area code and the local number. The format is as follows:
- Dial +1 817 followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., +1 817 123 4567).
This ensures that your call is directed to the correct recipient in the Fort Worth metropolitan area.
Also Read: 813 Area Code
Importance of the 817 Area Code for Businesses
The 817 area code is crucial for businesses operating in the Fort Worth area, one of the largest economic centers in Texas. As a hub for industries such as aerospace, logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare, the Fort Worth metro area offers businesses numerous opportunities for growth and success. Having a phone number with the 817 area code can help businesses establish credibility and build trust with local customers.
Benefits for Businesses Using the 817 Area Code:
- Local Presence: A phone number with the 817 area code signals that your business is based in Fort Worth or its surrounding suburbs, helping to build trust with local customers.
- Access to Major Industries: The Fort Worth area is home to key industries such as aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and logistics. A local phone number allows businesses to connect with major players in these industries.
- Connection to a Growing Market: Fort Worth and the western Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex are experiencing rapid population growth, making the region an attractive market for businesses looking to expand.
Businesses located outside of Texas can also acquire a 817 number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in the Fort Worth area and connect with customers and clients in this thriving market.
The Future of the 817 Area Code
As the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex continues to grow, the 817 area code will remain a critical part of the region’s telecommunications infrastructure. The introduction of the 682 overlay area code has helped ensure that there are enough phone numbers to meet the needs of the expanding population and business community.
The 817 area code is expected to remain in use for many years to come, providing reliable telecommunications services to businesses, residents, and government institutions across the Fort Worth area.
FAQs About the 817 Area Code
What areas are covered by the 817 area code?
The 817 area code covers the western part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, including cities such as Fort Worth, Arlington, North Richland Hills, Grand Prairie, and Euless.
Is the 817 area code still available for new phone numbers?
Yes, the 817 area code is still in use, and new phone numbers with the 817 area code are regularly assigned in the Fort Worth metro area. However, many new numbers are also assigned the 682 overlay area code.
How do I call a number with the 817 area code from outside the U.S.?
To call a number with the 817 area code from abroad, dial +1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 817 and the 7-digit local number.
Can businesses outside of Texas get a 817 area code number?
Yes, businesses can acquire a 817 area code number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in the Fort Worth area.
Why was the 682 area code introduced?
The 682 area code was introduced in 2000 as an overlay to the 817 area code to accommodate the growing demand for phone numbers in the Fort Worth metropolitan area.
The 817 area code is a key part of the telecommunications infrastructure in the Fort Worth metropolitan area, serving cities like Fort Worth, Arlington, and Grand Prairie. Since its introduction in 1953, the 817 area code has supported the growth and development of one of the most dynamic regions in Texas. As the Fort Worth area continues to expand, the 817 area code will remain an essential part of its telecommunications network, helping businesses and residents stay connected in this vibrant and growing region.