If your 334 number suddenly required a few extra taps, there is a reason.

Gulf Coast Media previously reported in January on the move to mandatory 10-digit dialing across the 334 region, a key step tied to the arrival of a new area code.

As reported previously, the 483 area code overlay is scheduled to take effect Feb. 23. The new code will cover the same geographic region as 334 and is intended to prevent a shortage of available telephone numbers.

Numbering resources for the 334 area code are projected to be exhausted by the third quarter of 2026, according to the commission. The addition of 483 will ensure a continued supply of numbers for residents and businesses as demand increases.

The commission approved the 483 overlay on March 6, 2024, for the 334 area code. Although the 334 area code does not extend into our immediate coverage area, it includes nearby communities such as Selma, Montgomery, Prattville, Pike Road, Tuskegee, Auburn, Opelika, Phenix City, Eufaula, Dothan, Enterprise, Troy, Greenville and much of central and southeast Alabama.

The overlay will not replace 334. Existing customers will keep their current numbers and service will not be affected. However, new customers or those requesting an additional line may be assigned a 483 number once the overlay is active.

Mandatory 10-digit dialing in the 334 region began Jan. 23 following a permissive period that allowed callers to adjust to including the area code on local calls. As Gulf Coast Media reported in January, callers must now dial the area code plus the seven-digit number for all local calls within the region.

The requirement ensures calls are routed properly once both 334 and 483 are in service across the same territory.

According to the Alabama Public Service Commission, three-digit numbers, including 911, will remain unchanged.