Area Code Atlas

NPA 201 split to create 973

Area code 973 was created by splitting from area code 201 on June 1, 1997, serving Essex, Passaic, Morris, and Sussex counties in northeastern New Jersey. The split was necessary to address number exhaustion in the region.

Permissive dialing period for NPAs 973 and 732 begins

On June 1, 1997, permissive dialing began for the new area codes 973 and 732 in New Jersey. During this period, callers could use either the old or new area codes until mandatory dialing was implemented.

Mandatory use of 973 and 732 begins

Mandatory dialing of the new area codes 973 and 732 began in November 1997, ending the permissive dialing period that allowed use of either the old or new codes. Callers were required to use the correct area code for all calls within the affected regions.

Jeopardy Conservation Procedures Announced for New Jersey NPA 973

NPA 862 overlay introduced for 973

Area code 862 was introduced on December 1, 2001, as an overlay for the 973 region in northeastern New Jersey. The overlay provided additional numbering resources and required mandatory ten-digit dialing.

Mandatory ten-digit dialing in 973/862 overlay complex

Mandatory ten-digit dialing was implemented in the 973/862 overlay complex in December 2001 to accommodate the overlay and ensure proper call routing.