What Are Phone Number Formats and How to Use Them?

Phone number formats are standardized ways of organizing phone numbers. They make phone numbers easy to recognize and use across systems. These formats can vary by country, purpose, and technical requirements.

HeyLocate's free online tool organizes the suggested number into the 5 valid phone number formats:

1. International Format: e.g., +1 202 555 0100

The international phone number format includes the country code (e.g., +1 for the United States) followed by the area code and local number. Spaces are often used to separate segments for readability.
Most common use: to call and text internationally.

2. National Format: e.g., (202) 555-0100

The national format omits the country code and displays the number as it’s typically dialed within the country. Parentheses and dashes are often used for clarity.
Most common use: for local communications, directories or ads.

3. E.164 Format: e.g., +12025550100

The E.164 format includes a plus sign and digits starting with the country code. Spaces, parentheses, and special characters are missing.
Most common use: for APIs or telecom services, including VoIP.

4. RFC3966 Format: e.g., tel:+12025550100

The RFC3966 format starts with “tel:” followed by the E.164 number (with a plus sign and digits).
Most common use: for clickable phone numbers on a website or in app.

5. Database Raw Format (Digits Only): e.g., 12025550100

It is a 10-digits phone number format, without any formatting characters such as spaces, parentheses, or plus signs.
Most common use: for backend systems.

FAQ

How to format a phone number?

To format a phone number, you typically add or delete a plus sign, a country code, and sometimes — local conventions such as spaces, parentheses, and so on. The valid phone number format depends on how it will be used.

What is my mobile phone number in international format?

To convert your mobile phone number to international format, add a plus sign and your country code before your phone number. For example, for the US, a number like 202-555-0100 becomes +1 202 555 0100. For a proper phone number format, use HeyLocate’s Free Formatter online.

What is the format of a European phone number?

European phone numbers generally follow the international format starting with a plus sign followed by the country code, area code, and local number. Example: +44 20 1234 5678 (UK).

What is the 7 digit phone number format?

A 7-digit phone number typically includes just the local number, often divided into two parts for readability (e.g., 555-0100). It is primarily associated with the United States and Canada, especially for local calls within a specific area code. However, this format is largely outdated in modern usage due to the introduction of 10-digit dialing.

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