Area Code 571: Coverage, Cities, and Usage

What area code is 571? Area code 571 serves Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, and surrounding communities in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. As part of a three-way overlay system with area codes 703 and 948, this 571 area code covers approximately 2.5 million residents across one of the nation's most dynamic telecommunications markets.

Service Area: Northern Virginia (Washington D.C. metropolitan area) Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET) – UTC-5 (EST) / UTC-4 (EDT) Population Served: Approximately 2.5 million residents (2024 estimate) Type: Overlay area code (shares geography with 703 and 948)

Quick Reference: Area Code 571 at a Glance

Area Code Overlays: Understanding the 571/703/948 System

An "overlay" area code shares the same geographic region as an existing area code. Area code 571 overlays area code 703 – both serve the same geographic area in Northern Virginia. As of October 14, 2024, area code 948 joins as a third overlay, creating a three-way overlay system (703/571/948) serving the identical geographic region.

The FCC adopted this approach to maximize available phone numbers within a region – crucial in densely populated areas experiencing rapid growth like Northern Virginia. The alternative, a geographic split, would divide the existing 703 region into two separate geographic areas, each with its own area code. While seemingly simpler, this approach disrupts businesses and residents with significant costs.

Overlay vs. Geographic Split Comparison:

Number Assignment in Overlay Systems:

In the 703/571/948 overlay, telecommunications carriers assign telephone numbers from their allocated number blocks. The North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) allocates blocks of 1,000 numbers (called thousands-blocks) to carriers serving the region. When you request new service:

1. Your carrier assigns a number from their available inventory across all three area codes
2. Numbers typically assign sequentially from available blocks
3. Geographic location within the overlay area doesn't determine which area code you receive
4. All three area codes (703, 571, 948) have equal status and functionality

Overlay Triggers and Timeline:

New overlays implement when an area code approaches exhaustion – typically when the projected life falls below three years. The process follows these steps:

1. Monitoring Phase: NANPA conducts semi-annual Number Resource Utilization Forecast (NRUF) surveys to track usage
2. Relief Planning (36 months before exhaust): NANPA notifies the Virginia State Corporation Commission when projections show exhaust within three years
3. Public Process (18–24 months): Public hearings and comment periods on relief options
4. Implementation (12 months): FCC approval, carrier preparation, and public education campaigns
5. Activation: New area code becomes available for assignment

The addition of area code 948 in 2024 reflects continued telecommunications growth in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. According to NANPA's 2024-2 NPA Exhaust Analysis, the 571/703 overlay will serve the region through approximately 2030–2031, with area code 948 providing additional capacity extending availability for decades beyond.

Key Features of the 571 Area Code

• Location: Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, and surrounding areas
• Country: United States
• Overlay for: Area Code 703 (original, since 1947) and Area Code 948 (added October 2024)
• Implementation Date: March 1, 2000 – Area code 571 became the 276th area code activated in NANP
• Latest Overlay: Area Code 948 activated October 14, 2024, creating a three-way overlay (703/571/948)
• NANP Format: NPA-NXX-XXXX (N = 2–9, X = 0–9)
• Standard Dialing: 10-digit dialing (area code + 7-digit number) for all local calls, and 1 + 10 digits for long-distance calls. 10-digit dialing is mandatory for all calls within the 703/571/948 area, even for local calls.
• Number Capacity: Each area code provides approximately 7.9 million possible phone numbers (after excluding reserved numbers)

What Cities and Counties Does the 571 Area Code Cover?

The 571 area code location spans a significant portion of Northern Virginia, including major cities in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area:

Major Cities with Area Code 571:

• Alexandria (population: ~160,000) – Historic waterfront city with government and business presence
• Arlington (population: ~238,000) – Home to Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery
• Fairfax (city and county, combined population: ~1.15 million) – Diverse commercial and residential hub
• Falls Church (population: ~15,000) – Independent city known for excellent schools
• Manassas (population: ~42,000) – Historic Civil War battlefield site
• Manassas Park (population: ~17,000) – Independent city in Prince William County

Counties (Full or Partial Coverage):

• Arlington County (complete coverage)
• Fairfax County (complete coverage)
• Fauquier County (partial – eastern portions)
• Loudoun County (partial – eastern portions)
• Prince William County (partial – northern and eastern portions)
• Stafford County (partial – northern portions)

This extensive coverage makes understanding its dialing procedures essential for anyone communicating within or with this region. Even calls within the same city require 10-digit dialing due to the three-way overlay (703/571/948).

Important Note: The 703/571/948 overlay area serves the Washington D.C. metropolitan region's Virginia suburbs, one of the fastest-growing telecommunications markets in the United States.

Regulatory Information

FCC Jurisdiction and Numbering Authority

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has full jurisdiction over the telephone numbering system in the United States under 47 CFR Part 52. Area code 571, like all area codes, operates under this jurisdiction. The North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) manages the assignment and allocation of area codes under FCC oversight. The implementation of 571 directly responded to rapid growth in Northern Virginia and the resulting need for additional phone numbers.

Consumer Rights and Protections

FCC regulations grant telecommunications consumers in the 571/703/948 area specific rights:

Number Portability Rights:

• Local Number Portability (LNP): You have the right to keep your phone number when switching service providers within the same geographic area, as guaranteed under 47 CFR § 52.23
• Simple ports (single line, no complex switching) must be completed within one business day
• Complex ports (multiple lines, PBX systems) typically take 3–7 business days
• Carriers can't refuse to port your number, even if you have outstanding balances (though you remain liable for those charges)
• You must provide: current phone number, account number, PIN/password, billing name and address
• Number portability applies across wireline, wireless, and VoIP services

Service Provider Obligations:

• Carriers must respond to formal complaints within 30 days
• Providers can't disconnect service without proper notice (typically 15–30 days depending on issue)
• Truth-in-billing requirements mandate clear, accurate billing statements
• Providers must protect Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI)

Filing Complaints:

If you experience issues with telecommunications services in the 571 area, file complaints through multiple channels:

1. FCC Consumer Complaint Center: consumercomplaints.fcc.gov (fastest method)
2. Phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322); ASL Video Call: 1-844-432-2275
3. Mail: Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

The FCC requires service providers to respond to forwarded complaints within 30 days in writing.

Virginia State Oversight:

The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) provides additional consumer protection and oversight for telecommunications services within Virginia, including area code implementation and consumer complaint resolution.

What Telecommunications Services Does Area Code 571 Support?

Area code 571 supports telecommunications services vital for residential and business users:

Landline and Mobile Phone Services

Traditional landlines and mobile phones both use the 571 area code. All major carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) provide full coverage in this area.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Services

VoIP Configuration and Requirements:

VoIP providers serving the 571 area must comply with FCC Enhanced 911 (E911) requirements under 47 CFR § 9.5. Set up VoIP service with a 571 number by:

1. Registering your physical address with your VoIP provider before service activation
2. Updating your address whenever you relocate (critical for 911 routing)
3. Understanding limitations – VoIP may not work during power outages or internet failures
4. Maintaining backup power – Keep UPS or battery backup for critical communications
5. Testing 911 service after initial setup and address changes

VoIP Porting Process:

To port an existing 571 number to a VoIP provider:

1. Contact your new VoIP provider first (don't cancel existing service)
2. Provide your current account number, phone number, and service address
3. Authorize the port with your account PIN or password
4. Simple VoIP ports complete within 1 business day per FCC rules
5. Your old service automatically cancels when the port completes

Number Porting Between Carriers

Step-by-Step Porting Process:

1. Verify eligibility: Ensure your number is active and account is in good standing
2. Gather information: Account number, PIN/password, billing name and address (must match exactly)
3. Contact new provider: Initiate porting request (never cancel old service first)
4. Submit documentation: Provide Letter of Authorization (LOA) if required
5. Confirm port date: Simple ports complete in 1 business day; complex ports in 3–7 days
6. Test service: Verify incoming/outgoing calls and text messages after completion

Common Porting Issues:

• Incorrect account information (most common rejection reason)
• Outstanding balance or contract dispute (doesn't prevent porting, but may incur fees)
• Number not eligible for porting (rare; some specialized numbers can't port)
• Geographic restrictions (porting outside the rate center may not be allowed)

Internet and Broadband Services

Internet providers use phone lines for DSL connections, and VoIP services use area codes for identification. Major providers include Verizon Fios, Xfinity, Cox Communications, and numerous fiber-optic providers serving Northern Virginia.

Business Telecommunications Solutions

Businesses rely on 571 for various communication needs, including:

• PBX systems (Private Branch Exchange) with local presence
• VoIP business services with advanced call routing
• Dedicated lines for high-volume communications
• Toll-free number forwarding to local 571 numbers
• SMS/MMS marketing campaigns using local 571 numbers

How to Dial Phone Numbers in Area Code 571

Understanding dialing patterns for area code 571 ensures effective communication. Here's the breakdown:

Standard Dialing Procedures

• Local Calls: Dial 10 digits (area code + 7-digit number), even when calling within the same city or building. The three-way overlay (703/571/948) makes this mandatory.
• Toll Calls (Long Distance): Dial 1 + 10 digits (1 + area code + 7-digit number). This applies to calls outside the 703/571/948 area.

Emergency and Special Service Numbers

Emergency Services (Always Three Digits):

• 911 – Emergency services (police, fire, medical)

  • Available 24/7 from all phones, including disconnected mobile phones
  • FCC requires all carriers to transmit 911 calls regardless of service status
  • Wireless 911: Provide your location immediately; automatic location may be imprecise
  • VoIP 911: Ensure your registered address is current for proper emergency routing
  • Enhanced 911 (E911): Automatically transmits callback number and location data

• 988 – National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Mental Health Crisis Line

  • Activated July 16, 2022, as a three-digit crisis hotline
  • Available 24/7 for mental health emergencies and crisis support
  • Calls route to local crisis centers based on caller location

Special Service N11 Codes (Three Digits):

• 211 – Community information and referral services (health, housing, employment resources)
• 311 – Non-emergency municipal services (local government inquiries, reporting issues)
• 411 – Directory assistance (caller-paid service)
• 511 – Traffic and transportation information (road conditions, transit updates)
• 611 – Carrier customer service (connects to your service provider)
• 711 – Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) for hearing/speech disabled
• 811 – Underground utility location service (call before digging)

Important: All N11 codes remain three-digit dialing even with mandatory 10-digit dialing for regular calls. You don't need to dial an area code for these services.

International Dialing from Area Code 571

To place international calls from a 571 number:

1. Dial: 011 (international access code)
2. Country code: 1–3 digits (e.g., 44 for UK, 33 for France, 81 for Japan)
3. City code: If applicable (may need to drop leading zero)
4. Local number: Complete phone number

Example: To call London (44-20-1234-5678) from 571: 011-44-20-1234-5678

Note: International calling rates vary by carrier and destination. Check with your provider for rates and consider international calling plans for frequent use.

Troubleshooting Common Dialing Errors

Problem: "Your call cannot be completed as dialed"

• Solution: Ensure you're dialing 10 digits (area code + number) for all local calls
• Check: Verify the area code is correct (703, 571, or 948)

Problem: Call connects to wrong number or intercept message

• Solution: Verify you're dialing 1 + area code for long-distance calls outside the 703/571/948 area
• Check: Confirm the number hasn't changed or been disconnected

Problem: 911 doesn't connect or routes incorrectly (VoIP)

• Solution: Update your registered E911 address with your VoIP provider immediately
• Emergency: Use a mobile phone or landline if VoIP 911 isn't working

Problem: Can't complete calls from 7-digit dialing

• Solution: 10-digit dialing has been mandatory since area code 571 implementation in 2000
• Update: Reprogram speed dials and contact lists to include area codes

Future Outlook for Area Code 571

Continued growth in Northern Virginia ensures area code 571 will remain a critical part of the region's telecommunications infrastructure. Based on current utilization data and growth trends:

Number Utilization and Projections:

According to NANPA's 2024-2 NPA Exhaust Analysis (October 2024):

• Current Status: The 571/703 overlay actively assigns numbers with healthy inventory
• Projected Exhaust: First quarter 2030 through second quarter 2031 (with area code 948 extending capacity significantly beyond)
• Annual Assignment Rate: Approximately 200–250 thousands-blocks per year in recent periods
• Utilization Rate: Moderate utilization reflecting steady regional growth

Number Management Strategies:

The FCC and NANPA employ several strategies to maximize numbering resources:

1. Thousands-Block Number Pooling: Allocating 1,000-number blocks instead of 10,000-number blocks to reduce waste (authorized under FCC Order 00-429)
2. Number Reclamation: Recovering unused and disconnected numbers for reassignment
3. Utilization Audits: Semi-annual NRUF surveys track carrier number usage
4. Efficient Assignment: Prioritizing carriers based on demonstrated need and utilization

Future Relief Measures:

If demand accelerates beyond current projections, potential options include:

• Additional overlay (fourth area code for the region, though unlikely before 2035)
• Enhanced pooling and reclamation efforts
• Technology transitions (IPv6-based communications reducing traditional numbering needs)

Stay Informed:

Monitor future area code changes through:

• NANPA Official Website – Number plan updates and exhaust projections
• Virginia SCC Area Code Information – State-level announcements
• FCC Numbering Resources – Federal policy and regulations

The Impact of the 988 Transition

The FCC designated 988 as the new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which became operational on July 16, 2022. This important change has implications for area codes that use 988 as a prefix for local exchanges.

Implementation Timeline:

• October 24, 2021: Mandatory 10-digit dialing began in affected areas
• July 16, 2022: 988 launched as the crisis hotline number

The 571/703/948 overlay already used mandatory 10-digit dialing (since March 2000). This transition reinforces the need for 10-digit dialing across all NANP area codes to prevent conflicts between three-digit special services (988, 911) and seven-digit local numbers beginning with these prefixes. This ensures calls to 988 reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Mental Health Crisis Line, while 10-digit numbers beginning with 988 (e.g., 571-988-XXXX) continue functioning as regular phone numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Area Code 571

What area code is 571?

Area code 571 serves Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, and Manassas. It operates as part of a three-way overlay with area codes 703 and 948, covering the same geographic region in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.

Where is the 571 area code located?

The 571 area code location covers Northern Virginia in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Major cities include Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, and Manassas, serving approximately 2.5 million residents across several counties.

When was area code 571 implemented?

Area code 571 launched on March 1, 2000, as an overlay to the existing area code 703. It became the 276th area code activated in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and the fifth area code in Virginia at the time.

What is the difference between area codes 571, 703, and 948?

No geographic difference exists – all three area codes (571, 703, and 948) serve the identical region in Northern Virginia. Area code 703 is the original code from 1947, 571 joined as an overlay in 2000, and 948 joined as a third overlay in October 2024. This three-way overlay system provides additional phone numbers for the growing region.

Do I need to dial the area code for local calls in the 571 area?

Yes, 10-digit dialing is mandatory for all calls within the 703/571/948 overlay area, even for local calls within the same city or building. Dial the area code plus the 7-digit phone number (e.g., 571-555-1234) for every call. For long-distance calls outside the overlay area, dial 1 + area code + 7-digit number.

What cities use area code 571?

Major cities using area code 571 include Alexandria (~160,000 population), Arlington (~238,000), Fairfax (city and county, ~1.15 million combined), Falls Church (~15,000), Manassas (~42,000), and Manassas Park (~17,000). The area code also serves portions of Fauquier, Loudoun, Prince William, and Stafford counties.

Is area code 571 in the Eastern Time Zone?

Yes, area code 571 operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is UTC-5 during Eastern Standard Time (EST) and UTC-4 during Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The region observes daylight saving time, shifting between EST and EDT annually.

How many phone numbers are available in area code 571?

Each area code provides approximately 7.9 million possible phone numbers after excluding reserved numbers (like 911, 411, and other special service codes). The three-way overlay system (703/571/948) significantly expands the total numbering capacity for Northern Virginia.

Can I choose between 571, 703, or 948 when getting a new phone number?

While you can request a specific area code when obtaining a new phone number, availability depends on your service provider and current number inventory. Request a specific area code by:

1. Contacting your carrier during signup or number selection
2. Asking for inventory in your preferred area code (703, 571, or 948)
3. Being flexible – availability varies; your preferred code may be limited
4. VoIP providers often offer broader selection from available numbers
5. No guarantee – carriers assign from available inventory

All three area codes (571, 703, and 948) are equivalent in terms of service and coverage – the choice is primarily a matter of preference and availability. Some businesses prefer 703 for its longer-established local presence, while others are neutral among the three codes.

What is the population served by area code 571?

Area code 571, along with overlay codes 703 and 948, serves approximately 2.5 million residents in Northern Virginia (2024 estimate). This includes the Washington D.C. metropolitan region's Virginia suburbs, one of the fastest-growing telecommunications markets in the United States.

Will Northern Virginia need additional area codes in the future?

With the addition of area code 948 in October 2024, Northern Virginia now has three overlaying area codes providing substantial numbering capacity. According to NANPA's 2024-2 exhaust projections, the current overlay system should serve the region through approximately 2030–2031, with 948 extending capacity well beyond. The FCC and NANPA continuously monitor number utilization and implement measures like thousands-block pooling to optimize resource allocation. Future needs will depend on continued population growth and telecommunications demand.

How do I port my 571 number to a new carrier?

To port your 571 number:

1. Don't cancel your current service before initiating the port
2. Contact your new carrier and request number porting
3. Provide required information: Current phone number, account number, PIN/password, and billing name/address (must match exactly)
4. Wait for completion: Simple ports complete in 1 business day; complex ports take 3–7 days
5. Old service automatically cancels when the port completes

Under FCC regulations, carriers can't refuse to port your number, even if you have an outstanding balance (though you remain responsible for paying it).

What should I do if my VoIP 911 service isn't working in the 571 area?

If you experience VoIP 911 issues:

1. Update your E911 address immediately with your VoIP provider
2. Use alternative phone (mobile or landline) for emergency calls until resolved
3. Test 911 service after address updates (inform dispatcher it's a test)
4. Consider backup – maintain a mobile phone or traditional landline for emergencies
5. File complaint with the FCC if provider fails to resolve E911 issues

VoIP providers are required by FCC regulations to provide functional E911 service with accurate location information.

Conclusion

Area code 571 forms an integral part of Northern Virginia's communication network. Understanding its coverage, regulatory framework, and dialing patterns ensures effective communication and helps you navigate telecommunications needs efficiently. This guide provides comprehensive knowledge to keep you connected in this dynamic region.

Key Takeaways:

• Three-way overlay system: Area codes 571, 703, and 948 serve the identical geographic region in Northern Virginia
• Mandatory 10-digit dialing: Always dial area code + 7-digit number for all calls, including local calls
• Coverage area: Serves ~2.5 million residents across Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and surrounding counties
• Eastern Time Zone: Operates in ET (UTC-5/UTC-4), observing daylight saving time
• October 2024 expansion: Area code 948 added as third overlay, providing substantial numbering capacity through 2030–2031 and beyond
• No geographic differences: All three area codes are functionally equivalent – choice is based on availability and preference
• Consumer protections: FCC guarantees number portability rights and complaint resolution procedures
• Emergency services: Always dial 911 (three digits) for emergencies; VoIP users must maintain current E911 addresses

Next Steps:

1. Update contact information – Ensure business cards, websites, and marketing materials include proper 10-digit formatting
2. Configure phone systems – Program PBX, VoIP, or mobile devices for automatic 10-digit dialing in the 571 area
3. Train staff – Educate employees on mandatory 10-digit dialing requirements to prevent connection failures
4. Research providers – Choose local telecommunications providers offering services in the 571/703/948 area codes
5. Monitor announcements – Stay informed about future changes to area code assignments or dialing procedures
6. Register E911 addresses – For VoIP users, ensure your emergency address is current and accurate
7. Know portability rights – Understand your rights to keep your number when switching providers

Additional Resources:

• North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) – Official NANP resource for area code information
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) – U.S. telecommunications regulatory authority
• Virginia State Corporation Commission – Virginia telecommunications oversight
• FCC Consumer Complaint Center – File complaints about telecommunications services
• FCC Consumer Resources – Telecommunications consumer protection and guidance
• FCC Number Portability Guide – Rights and procedures for keeping your number
• NANPA NPA Exhaust Projections – Current area code utilization and forecasts

Related Articles

• Understanding Area Code 703: Virginia's Original Area Code
• 10DLC SMS Registration: Complete Guide for Businesses
• E164 Phone Format: International Number Standards Explained

Get Your 571 Phone Number Today

Looking to establish a local presence in Northern Virginia? A 571 phone number provides instant credibility with customers in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, and surrounding communities. Contact local telecommunications providers or explore VoIP services to secure your 571 number and connect with one of the nation's most dynamic business markets.