Calling the United States from Mexico can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the international dialing codes. However, with a few simple steps, you can make calls to the U.S. from Mexico with ease. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to dial to the United States from Mexico, including the necessary dialing codes, area codes, and tips for saving money on international calls.
To begin, you will need to know the country code for the United States, which is 1. Once you have the country code, you will need to dial the area code for the city you are calling. For example, if you are calling New York City, you would dial 212. After dialing the area code, you will need to dial the seven-digit phone number of the person you are calling. The complete dialing format for calling the United States from Mexico is as follows: 001 + Country Code (1) + Area Code + Seven-Digit Phone Number. For instance, to call a landline in New York City, you would dial 001 1 212 555-1212.
In addition to the basic dialing instructions, there are a few other things to keep in mind when calling the United States from Mexico. First, it is important to note that international calls can be expensive, so it is a good idea to shop around for the best rates. There are a number of different calling cards and international calling plans available, so be sure to compare the costs before you make a decision. Second, it is important to be aware of the time difference between Mexico and the United States. When it is 12 pm in Mexico City, it is 11 am in New York City. Finally, it is always a good idea to have a pen and paper handy when you are making an international call, in case you need to write down any information.
Understanding Country Codes
When dialing an international number, you’ll need to include the country code for the destination country. The country code for the United States is 1, so when calling from Mexico to the US, you’ll need to dial 1 first. Here’s a breakdown of the components of an international phone number:
Exit Code: The exit code indicates that you are making an international call. For Mexico, the exit code is 00.
Country Code: The country code identifies the destination country. For the US, the country code is 1.
Area Code: The area code specifies the region within the destination country. For different areas in the US, there will be different area codes.
Local Number: The local number is the phone number of the person or business you’re calling.
Here’s an example of an international phone number to the United States:
| Country | Exit Code | Country Code | Area Code | Local Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 00 | 1 | 212 | 555-1212 |
To dial this number from Mexico, you would dial the following: 00 1 212 555-1212
Dialing the Exit Code
To make a call to the United States from Mexico, you need to dial the following sequence:
- Exit code (00 or 011)
- Country code (1)
- Area code (3-digit number)
- Phone number (7-digit number)
Therefore, the complete dialing format for a call to the United States from Mexico is:
00 or 011 + 1 + Area Code + Phone Number
For example, to call a landline number in New York City, you would dial: 00115551234567
Note that the exit code may vary depending on your phone service provider. If you are unsure about the correct exit code to use, you can consult with your service provider.
Here is a table summarizing the dialing sequence for calls to the United States from Mexico:
| Dialing Sequence | Example |
|---|---|
| 00 + 1 + Area Code + Phone Number | 00115551234567 |
| 011 + 1 + Area Code + Phone Number | 01115551234567 |
Entering the Area Code
Once you have selected the LADA code, you need to enter the area code. This is a 3-digit code that identifies the specific city or region within the United States. Many commonly called areas are in the following table:
| City | Area Code |
|---|---|
| New York City | 212 |
| Los Angeles | 213 |
| Chicago | 312 |
| Houston | 713 |
| Philadelphia | 215 |
To find the area code for a specific location in the United States, you can use an online directory or search engine.
After you have entered the area code, you need to enter the 7-digit local phone number. This is the same number you would dial if you were calling from within the United States.
Completing the Phone Number
Once you have dialed the exit code and country code, you need to complete the phone number by dialing the full local phone number, including the area code. The area code is a three-digit number that identifies the specific geographic region within the United States. For example, the area code for New York City is 212.
To find the area code for the city you are calling, you can use an online area code lookup tool or refer to a phone directory. Once you have the area code, you will need to dial it along with the remaining seven digits of the local phone number.
Here is an example of how to complete a phone number to dial to the United States from Mexico:
Exit code (00) + Country code (1) + Area code (212) + Local phone number (555-1212)
The complete phone number would be: 001 212 555-1212
Note:
If you are calling a landline number, you may need to dial an additional “1” before the area code. This is not necessary when calling a mobile number.
Using Cell Phones
Using a cell phone in Mexico to call the United States is generally a convenient option, but it can be more expensive than using a landline. Here’s how to do it:
-
Dial the exit code:
Dial +1, the exit code for the United States.
-
Drop the leading 0:
If the U.S. phone number has a leading 0, drop it.
-
Dial the area code:
Dial the three-digit area code of the U.S. phone number.
-
Dial the seven-digit phone number:
Dial the remaining seven digits of the U.S. phone number.
-
Example:
To call the number 555-123-4567 in New York City (with the area code 212), you would dial:
Action Digits Dial Exit code +1 Drop leading 0 Dial Area code 212 Dial 7-digit phone number 555-123-4567
International Calling Rates
The cost of calling the United States from Mexico varies depending on the calling plan you have and the specific provider you use. Some providers offer flat rates for international calls, while others charge per minute. Make sure to check with your provider for specific rates before making a call.
Calling Cards
Calling cards are a popular option for making international calls, as they can offer lower rates than calling directly from your landline or mobile phone. You can purchase calling cards from a variety of stores, including convenience stores, drugstores, and supermarkets. When using a calling card, you will typically need to dial a toll-free number, enter your calling card number, and then dial the number you wish to call.
Voice over IP (VoIP)
VoIP is a technology that allows you to make phone calls over the internet. There are a number of VoIP providers that offer low rates on international calls, and some even offer free calls to certain countries. To use VoIP, you will need to have a broadband internet connection and a VoIP adapter. Some VoIP providers also offer apps that you can use to make calls from your smartphone or tablet.
Comparison of Calling Methods
The following table compares the three main methods for making international calls from Mexico:
| Method | Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| Calling Cards | Variable | Moderate |
| Voice over IP (VoIP) | Variable | Excellent |
| International Roaming | High | Poor |
Phone Cards and Calling Apps
Phone cards and calling apps are great options for making calls to the United States from Mexico. Here’s a detailed look at these options:
Phone Cards
Phone cards are prepaid cards that you can purchase at convenience stores, gas stations, and other retail locations. To use a phone card, you simply dial the access number provided on the card, enter your PIN, and then dial the number you want to call. The cost of calls made using phone cards varies depending on the provider and the destination. However, phone cards are generally a more affordable option than using a calling app.
Calling Apps
Calling apps are software applications that you can download to your smartphone or tablet. These apps allow you to make calls to the United States over the internet, using your data plan. The cost of calls made using calling apps varies depending on the provider and the destination. However, calling apps can be a more convenient option than phone cards, as you don’t need to purchase a physical card or worry about running out of minutes.
Popular Calling Apps
| App | Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Free calling, messaging, and video chat | Free within WhatsApp network, data charges may apply | |
| Skype | Free calling to Skype users, low-cost calls to landlines and mobiles | Free within Skype network, data charges / pay-as-you-go for paid calls |
| Google Voice | Free calling within the US and Canada, low-cost international calls | Free within Google Voice network, data charges / pay-as-you-go for paid calls |
Troubleshooting Dialing Issues
Incorrect Dialing Sequence
Double-check that you are dialing the correct sequence: 00, 1, and the 10-digit US phone number. Ensure you omit any leading zeros from the area code.
Country Code Omission
Verify that you have included the leading 00 before the country code (1). This prefix indicates an international call.
Incorrect Phone Number
Cross-check the US phone number you are dialing. Ensure it includes the area code and no special characters, such as hyphens or spaces.
Blocked Calls
Check if your phone service provider or the phone number you are calling has blocked international calls. Contact your provider to inquire about any restrictions.
Network Issues
Poor network connectivity or technical glitches can interfere with call dialing. Try reconnecting to the network or using a different phone or location.
Calling Card Problems
If you use a calling card, ensure it is active and has sufficient balance. Check the instructions on the card for any specific dialing requirements.
Operator Assistance
Contact your phone service provider or dial the international operator assistance number (+99) for help placing the call.
Other Mobile Issues
Restart your mobile phone or check the SIM card for proper insertion. Ensure you have the correct network settings and roaming permissions activated.
How To Dial To United States From Mexico
To call the United States from Mexico, follow these steps:
- Dial 00, the international access code for Mexico.
- Dial 1, the country code for the United States.
- Dial the area code for the city in the United States you are calling.
- Dial the phone number.
For example, to call the number 555-1212 in New York City, you would dial: 00 1 212 555-1212.
Additional Tips for Crystal Clear Calls
9. Use a VoIP service
A VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) service allows you to make phone calls over the internet. This can be a more affordable option than using a traditional landline or mobile phone, and it can also provide better call quality.
To use a VoIP service, you will need a broadband internet connection and a VoIP adapter. The adapter will connect to your router and allow you to make and receive phone calls using your computer, smartphone, or other internet-connected device.
There are many different VoIP service providers available, so it is important to shop around and compare prices and features before choosing one. Some of the most popular VoIP service providers include Skype, Vonage, and MagicJack.
Using a Landline or Mobile Phone
To call the United States from Mexico using a landline or mobile phone, follow these steps:
- Dial the exit code for Mexico: 00
- Dial the country code for the United States: 1
- Dial the area code for the city in the United States you want to call
- Dial the phone number
For example, to call a landline in New York City, you would dial: 00 1 212 555-1212.
Using a VoIP Service
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make calls over the internet. There are many different VoIP providers available, such as Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp. To use a VoIP service, you will need to create an account and download the software.
Alternative Ways to Contact the United States
Email is a convenient and inexpensive way to contact someone in the United States. You can use a free email service such as Gmail or Yahoo Mail to send and receive emails.
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging (IM) is another great way to communicate with someone in the United States. There are many different IM apps available, such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Skype.
Social Media
Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can also be used to contact someone in the United States. However, keep in mind that social media is not as private as email or IM.
Voice over IP (VoIP) Services
VoIP services allow you to make calls over the internet. There are many different VoIP providers available, such as Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp.
Text Messaging
Text messaging is a quick and easy way to contact someone in the United States. However, keep in mind that text messages can be expensive if you are not on a plan that includes unlimited texting.
Using a Public Phone
Public phones are available in many places in Mexico, including airports, hotels, and shopping malls. To use a public phone, you will need to purchase a phone card or use coins.
Using a Calling Card
Calling cards can be purchased at many convenience stores and gas stations in Mexico. To use a calling card, you will need to dial the access number for the card and then enter your card number and PIN.
Using a Prepaid Phone
Prepaid phones are a good option if you are only going to be in Mexico for a short period of time. Prepaid phones can be purchased at many convenience stores and gas stations in Mexico. To use a prepaid phone, you will need to purchase a SIM card and then add minutes to your account.
Using a Satellite Phone
Satellite phones are a good option if you are going to be in a remote area where there is no cell phone coverage. Satellite phones are expensive, but they can be rented or purchased.
How to Dial to the United States from Mexico
Dialing to the United States from Mexico is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. First, you will need to dial the exit code for Mexico, which is 00. Next, you will need to dial the country code for the United States, which is 1. Finally, you will need to dial the area code for the city you are calling, followed by the phone number.
For example, to call a number in New York City, you would dial 00 1 212 555 1212.
