Tele-Tech's Blog

Alabama Overlay Announced
An all services overlay was recently approved by Alabama’s Public Service Commission in an effort to provide relief for the 256 NPA. The new 938 NPA will cover the same communities now served by the 256 NPA, including Anniston, Florence, Gadsden and Huntsville.

The effective date for the 938 NPA is 7/10/10; however, transitioning residents to 10-digit dialing will begin much sooner. A “permissive dialing period” will be in effect from 11/7/09 through 6/5/10, during which subscribers may use either 7- or 10-digits when making calls within the 256 NPA. At the conclusion of the permissive period, shortly before activation of the 938 NPA, 10-digit dialing will be mandatory for the overlay area.

Just as customers are encouraged to begin 10-digit dialing, it is highly recommended that carriers prepare their switches to begin sending 10-digits prior to the mandatory dialing deadline of 6/5/10 as well. Additionally, international and domestic service providers should verify their networks have the 938 NPA activated prior to its effective date of 7/10/10.