Area Code 99 – Maranhão

Overview of Area Code 99

Area code 99 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the state of Maranhão in northeastern Brazil. It covers a vast territory that includes the state capital, São Luís, and numerous municipalities across the mainland. The code is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services and is administered under the Brazilian National Telecommunications Agency (ANATEL).

Geographic Coverage

The 99 area code serves the entire state of Maranhão, which is divided into several mesoregions. Key cities within this code include São Luís (the capital), Imperatriz, Caxias, Timon, Codó, Paço do Lumiar, São José de Ribamar, and Bacabal. The coverage extends from the Atlantic coast to the borders with Piauí, Tocantins, and Pará states.

Dialing Formats

For local calls within the same area code and same city, dial only the 8-digit subscriber number (e.g., 3221-0000). For calls between different cities within Maranhão, you must dial the national trunk prefix '0' followed by the operator code (e.g., 0XX), then '99', and the 8-digit number. For example, to call from São Luís to Imperatriz, dial 0XX99 3521-0000.

For international calls to a number in area code 99, dial the international access prefix (e.g., 00 from Brazil, or + from most countries), then Brazil's country code 55, then area code 99, and the 8-digit local number. For instance, a caller from the United States would dial 011 55 99 3221-0000, while a caller from Europe would dial 00 55 99 3221-0000.

Number Structure

Fixed-line numbers in Brazil are 8 digits long. The first digit of the subscriber number often indicates the type of service: numbers starting with 2, 3, 4, or 5 are typically fixed lines, while numbers starting with 6, 7, 8, or 9 are reserved for mobile services. However, this is not a strict rule, and number portability allows users to retain their numbers when switching operators or service types.

Overlay and Regulatory Notes

As of the latest ANATEL updates, area code 99 does not have an overlay code; it remains the sole geographic code for Maranhão. However, due to increasing demand, ANATEL has implemented number conservation measures, and some new fixed-line numbers may be allocated with different initial digits. Always verify the current dialing procedures with your local carrier.

Practical Tips for Callers

When calling from a mobile phone within Brazil, you may need to include the '0' and operator code depending on your carrier and the destination. For international callers, it is essential to replace the '+' with the appropriate exit code for your country. Always confirm the correct number with the recipient, as local numbers may be listed with or without the area code.