How to Call Mexico from the US: Dialling Format & Codes

Understanding the Basic Dialling Format

Trying to figure out how to dial international from the US to Mexico can seem complicated, but it follows a consistent, straightforward pattern. To make a call from the US to Mexico, you need to dial a sequence of numbers in the correct order. The standard structure for making any international call from a US landline is: Exit Code + Country Code + Area Code + Local Number.

• Exit Code: The first step is to dial 011. This is the international exit code required to signal that you are making a call outside of the United States.
• Country Code: Next, you will dial 52, which is the specific country code for Mexico.
• Area Code & Local Number: After the country code, you will dial the recipient’s 10-digit number. This is composed of a 2- or 3-digit area code followed by a 7- or 8-digit local phone number.

Putting it all together, the complete sequence for how to dial a number from the US to Mexico is 011 + 52 + the 10-digit local number. Learning how to make a call from the US to Mexico is as simple as remembering this formula.

Calling Mexico Cell Phones vs. Landlines

In the past, there was a confusing difference between dialling a Mexican landline and a mobile phone. Thankfully, a major dialling change in 2019 simplified this process significantly. The system is now unified, meaning the steps for how to dial from the US to a Mexico cell phone are identical to calling a landline.

Previously, callers had to insert the digit “1” between the country code (52) and the area code when calling a mobile number. This is no longer required. The old prefixes “044” and “045” used for domestic calls within Mexico were also eliminated, streamlining the process for everyone.

The definitive format for all calls to Mexico is now simply: 011 + 52 + Area Code + Phone Number.

Using a Mobile Phone or iPhone to Call Mexico

When you’re calling from a smartphone like an iPhone or Android, the process is even easier. Instead of manually entering the US exit code (011), you can use a universal shortcut: the plus sign (+).

Using this format is the best way to save Mexican numbers in your phone’s address book. Whether you’re using WhatsApp, making a direct call, or just keeping contacts organized, the “+” ensures your call will connect from anywhere in the world. This is especially useful for managing mobile data abroad, as you won’t have to edit your contacts when you travel.

Mexico Area Codes: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey

After dialling the country code (52), the next step is the area code. Area codes in Mexico are either two or three digits long, depending on the city. The total length of the area code plus the local number will always be 10 digits. Here are the area codes for Mexico’s three largest cities:

Mexico City

The area code is 55. The full dialling format is: 011 + 52 + 55 + [8-digit number].

Guadalajara

The area code is 33. The full dialling format is: 011 + 52 + 33 + [8-digit number].

Monterrey

The area code is 81. The full dialling format is: 011 + 52 + 81 + [8-digit number].

For other common tourist destinations, you’ll need their specific area codes as well. Here is a quick reference table:

How to Dial Toll-Free (800) Numbers in Mexico

You may need to contact a business in Mexico that provides a toll-free number, such as an “800” number. However, these numbers are typically only toll-free when dialled from within Mexico. You cannot simply dial 011 + 52 + 800 + the number from the US.

To connect to these services from the United States, you must use a special converted prefix. The conversions are as follows:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I still need to dial ‘1’ before a Mexican cell number?

No. As of a nationwide change on August 3, 2019, the special prefixes “044” and “045” for domestic mobile calls within Mexico were eliminated. As part of this simplification, the requirement to add a “1” after the country code (52) when calling a Mexican mobile number from abroad was also removed. You now dial the country code followed directly by the 10-digit number.

How do I save a Mexican number in my US contacts?

The best practice is to save all international numbers using the plus sign (+) format. For a Mexican number, you would save it in your contacts as: +52 [10-digit phone number]. This universal format ensures the number will work correctly whether you are calling from the US or any other country in the world.

Why am I getting a busy signal when calling Mexico?

A busy signal can happen for a few common reasons. First, double-check that you have the correct 10-digit number and area code. Second, ensure you are not using the old dialling format by mistakenly including the extra “1” after the country code. Finally, your phone plan may have restrictions on international calling. It’s a good idea to confirm with your carrier that your plan is enabled for calls to Mexico.

Is it expensive to call Mexico from the US?

The cost to call Mexico depends entirely on your phone provider and specific carrier plan. In recent years, competition has made it much more affordable. Many US mobile carriers, such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, now include unlimited calling to both Mexico and Canada in their standard unlimited plans at no extra charge. Always check with your provider to understand the rates associated with your plan before dialling.