Johnson County and Southern Indy News

The six-month transition period for those in the 317 area code to begin using 10-digit dialing is underway. The state is asking consumers to begin using 10 digits for 317 calls to prepare for the addition of a new area code this fall.

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor says local calls made with either seven or 10 digits will work through September 16 to give people the opportunity to adjust to the change. Beginning September 17, 10-digit dialing will be mandatory for local calls.

The new 463 area code will be added to the region this fall. Starting in October, new numbers in the region may be assigned the new area code. The "overlay" method, involves the 463 area code overlaying the entire 317 region, has been used for all new area code additions throughout the United States since 2008. It was used last year in southern Indiana with the new 930 area code overlaying the 812 area code region.

The OUCC says the change does not require consumers to change their phone numbers. In addition, any call that is currently local will remain local during and after the transition.

You can connect to more information from the OUCC or IURC. For the story on the Inside Indiana Business' website, click here.