10-Digit Dialing In 812 Area Required Come Feb. 7

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (AP) — Ten-digit telephone dialing in southern Indiana's 812 area code will become mandatory Feb. 7.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission approved the date Wednesday ahead of the introduction of the new 930 code for the same area. The change means callers in the region must use the area code for each call they make.

Alan Matsumoto of the Indiana Telecommunications Association suggested the Feb. 7 date because it comes after the holidays and falls on a Saturday, when fewer calls are made.

The Evansville Courier & Press reports the 930 area code will be implemented March 7. It was created because 812 phone numbers are running out. It will overlay the 812 area code rather than having a separate geographical area.