Area Code 686

Area code 686 is one of the newest NANP area codes

Area code 686 is one of the most recently added codes in the North American Numbering Plan, in service since February 1, 2024. It is an overlay that shares its territory with 804, adding fresh numbers as those codes fill up. Existing numbers in the area keep their codes; only new phone lines may be issued a 686 number.

Because 686 is new and unfamiliar, some people are wary when it appears on caller ID and search for “who called me from 686?” An area code only shows where a number is registered, and any number can be spoofed — so a 686 call is not suspicious on its own. Judge each call by what it asks for, not the code. Is a call from 686 a scam?

FTC complaints involving 686 numbers

Numbers shown with area code 686 in the FTC's Do Not Call “Reported Calls” database (recent reporting window). Most common reported reasons: “Other”.

Most-complained 686 numbers:

• (686) 207-1883 — 3 complaints
• (686) 888-0476 — 3 complaints

These are FTC Do Not Call complaints filed about specific numbers shown with this area code — frequently spoofed. The area code itself is not a scam. See the most-reported area codes and the most-reported phone numbers nationwide.

Frequently asked questions

Where is area code 686?

Area code 686 covers Richmond and nearby cities including Hopewell, Mechanicsville, Petersburg in Virginia, in the Eastern Time.

What cities use area code 686?

Area code 686 serves Richmond, Hopewell, Mechanicsville, Petersburg, Tuckahoe in Virginia.

What time zone is area code 686 in?

Area code 686 is in the Eastern Time (America/New_York).

How do you dial a 686 number?

Dial all 10 digits: 686 followed by the 7-digit local number. From abroad, dial +1 686 and the local number.

Is a call from area code 686 a scam?

A 686 number is geographically tied to Virginia, but caller ID can be spoofed, so the displayed area code does not prove where a caller really is. If you did not expect the call, do not share personal information and consider looking the number up.

Is 686 a country code?

No. 686 is a US area code (a domestic 3-digit code), not a country code. The country (calling) code for the United States is +1, shared across the North American Numbering Plan. So a full 686 number written for international dialing looks like +1 686 followed by the 7-digit local number.