Preparations for the new 448 area code for Northwest Florida have begun. The current 850 area code will run out of available phone numbers in early 2022, and the new area code will cover Northwest Florida, from Escambia County to Tallahassee. Beginning August 22nd, local calls may be dialed on either a 7-digit or 10-digit basis, but after February 20th, 2021, all calls must be dialed using 10-digits. Existing customers will keep the 850-area code and will not have to change their phone numbers.