Area code 263 vs 438
263 and 438 are overlay codes: they cover the same ground in Quebec, and a number in one is a local call to the other. 438 is the original, in service since 2006. 263 was added in 2022 because the first was filling up – that is what an overlay is for. Today 263 has 63 of 800 blocks assigned (7.9%) and 438 has 608 of 800 (76.0%), so a new number in the area now almost always comes from 263. 438 appears in the complaint data with 305 complaints in the window; 263 does not appear at all, which is what you would expect of a code that is barely used so far. Neither code is better or safer than the other. They are the same geography, the same carriers and the same dialing rules; the difference is only how long each has existed and how full it is.
Side by side
| 263 | 438 | |
|---|---|---|
| In service since | 2022 | 2006 |
| Region | Quebec | Quebec |
| Blocks assigned | 63 of 800 (7.9%) | 608 of 800 (76%) |
| Largest block holder | Other CLEC / VoIP 20.6% | – |
| Complaints, 28 Sep – 30 Oct 2026 | not in the data | 305 (#300) |
| Rate centers | 6 | 6 |
Block share is allocation by the numbering administrator, not subscribers. Complaint counts cover 28 Sep – 30 Oct 2026 and measure how often each code is spoofed on caller ID.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between area codes 263 and 438?
None geographically – they overlay the same area, so the difference is age and how many numbers are left.
Do I need to dial the area code between 263 and 438?
Yes. Overlay areas use ten-digit dialing for local calls, including between the two codes. Seven digits reaches a recording.
Will a new number be 263 or 438?
Whichever has blocks left – currently 263, at 7.9% allocated against 76.0% for the other. Carriers draw from the code with free blocks, which is why the newer code spreads over time.
Is 263 or 438 more likely to be a spam call?
The data does not support a comparison: only one of the two appears in the complaint window.
Sources
- NANPA – NPA Database (npa_report.csv), file date 11/01/2026, retrieved Nov 1, 2026
- Canadian Numbering Administrator – CO Code Status, data date 2026-10-31, retrieved Nov 1, 2026
- FTC – Do Not Call Reported Calls Data, 28 Sep – 30 Oct 2026, retrieved Nov 1, 2026
Each code on its own: 263 · 438. All codes in Quebec: Quebec area codes.