In less than a month, you will have to use the 808 area code before dialing in order to make local calls.
The change to 10-digit dialing for local calls is driven by the Federal Communications Commission’s adoption of a new three-digit code for mental health emergencies.
Starting July 16, 2022, calling 988 will reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 10-digit number — 800-273-TALK — and it has seen a rise in call volume in recent years.
Hawaiʻi was one of 35 states, plus Guam, that used the 988 prefix — and has to transition to 10-digit dialing for local calls.
The change will take place on Oct. 24, 2021.
If you don’t dial 10 digits, you may hear a message saying, “your call cannot be completed as dialed.”
