Understanding French telephone prefixes is essential for interpreting an incoming call and assessing its level of trustworthiness. In France, telephone numbering follows precise rules defined and regulated by ARCEP. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about telephone prefixes in France. For quick lookups, also see our full prefix directory and list of French carriers.
Geographic prefixes: 01 to 05
These numbers correspond to fixed lines associated with a specific geographic area: 01 for Île-de-France, 02 for the North-West, 03 for the North-East, 04 for the South-East, and 05 for the South-West. These numbers are generally more reliable as their allocation requires a verifiable physical address — historically assigned by Orange, the incumbent operator of the copper network.
Mobile numbers: 06 and 07
Numbers starting with 06 were introduced in France in the 1990s with the rise of mobile telephony. Numbers starting with 07 supplemented capacity as demand increased. Both are now assigned to mobile subscribers of all four major operators: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile. These numbers are widely used by canvassing platforms as they are easy to obtain in bulk and give an impression of proximity.
VoIP numbers: 09
Numbers starting with 09 are non-geographic numbers assigned for Voice over IP (VoIP) services, often tied to Free and Bouygues Telecom box subscribers. Their low cost and ease of obtainment make them the preferred prefix of telemarketing call centres. A 09 number calling you at an unusual hour with an unsolicited service offer deserves to be checked on TelCheck.
Special numbers: 08
Numbers starting with 08 cover a wide variety of services with very variable rates — from free 0800 numbers to premium 0899 numbers that can cost up to €3 per call plus €1.50 per minute. Never call back an 0899 number from an unknown source.