How to Call the US from Mexico? Dialing Codes & Tips

The US phone number format while dialing from Mexico includes the Mexico’s exit code to signal an international call, the US country code, and the area code for the region you’re dialing in the United States.

1. Dial Mexico’s Exit Code – 00 
   To make an international call from Mexico, start by dialing 00, which is Mexico’s international exit code. If you're dialing from a mobile phone, you can replace 00 with a plus sign (+). This tells the phone system you're placing an international call.
2. Dial the US Country Code – 1 
   Right after the exit code, dial the country code for the United States, which is 1. So far, you should have dialed: 00 1
3. Enter the US Area Code 
   Next, dial the 3-digit area code for the specific region or city in the US you’re trying to reach. For example, 213 for Los Angeles or 212 for New York City.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number 
   Finally, dial the 7-digit local phone number of the person or business you’re calling in the US. Your full number should now look like: 00 (exit code) + 1 (US country code) + Area Code + Local Number.
   
   If you’re dialing from a mobile phone, you can replace 00 with a plus sign (+), like: +1 212 555 1234.

When calling the US from Mexico, you must understand the role of area codes in ensuring your call connects correctly. The US is divided into various regions, each with its own area code that helps route your call to the appropriate location. These three-digit codes come right after the country code and connect you with the right city or state.

Below are some common area codes across the United States:

For business-related calls, the ideal time to contact someone in the United States from Mexico is from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (US local time). For personal calls, it’s best to coordinate a mutually convenient time, especially when calling across different time zones.

Mexico spans four main time zones (Pacific, Mountain, Central, and Eastern), while the United States covers six. Many regions share the same time or are only 1–3 hours apart, but the exact difference depends on the recipient location. Since the US observes Daylight Saving Time in many areas, the time offset can change during the year, so it’s best to check the current US time before placing your call.

The cost to call the United States from Mexico ranges from $1 to $4 per minute using traditional carrier dialing, $0.01 to $0.10 per minute with VoIP services, and $0.01 to $0.40 per minute using calling cards. Internet-based calling apps allow free voice and video calls when both users use the same platform.

Placing a direct international call from Mexico to the United States through a mobile carrier or landline is usually the most expensive option, as carriers apply per-minute international rates. Prices can range from $1 per minute up to approximately $4 per minute, depending on the provider and the type of plan you have. Some carriers offer international calling packages or add-on plans that can lower these costs for frequent callers.

VoIP services route calls through the internet rather than traditional phone lines, which lowers the cost for international calls. Rates for calling US numbers through VoIP services often range from $0.01 to $0.10 per minute, depending on the provider and subscription type.

International calling cards are another affordable option for calling the US from Mexico. These cards can be purchased online or at local stores and are used by dialing an access number followed by the US phone number. Rates generally range from $0.01 to $0.40 per minute, depending on the card provider and any connection or maintenance fees.

Messaging and calling apps such as WhatsApp, Messenger, FaceTime, Telegram, and Viber allow people to make voice or video calls using Wi-Fi or mobile data at no extra charge. The only requirement is that both people use the same app, making it one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to stay connected.
 

Calling the USA from Mexico is simple once you know the format. Just dial Mexico’s international exit code 00, then the US country code 1, followed by the 10-digit phone number consisting of the area code and local number. Beyond dialing, it’s helpful to keep time zone differences in mind and be aware of potential calling costs.

For those looking for a more affordable alternative, VoIP services like Calilio offer a reliable option. With Calilio, you can get a US virtual phone number while you are in Mexico, enabling calls at local US rates from any internet-connected device.