Area Code 38 – Mobile Network
The phone area code for Mobile Network is 38 (international format +3938). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📞 Exchange Codes (NXX) for Area Code 38
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Overview of Italy's +39 38 Mobile Prefix
The Italian national prefix +39 38 is a non-geographic mobile network prefix assigned within the country's national numbering plan, as administered by the Autorità per le Garanzie nelle Comunicazioni (AGCOM). Unlike geographic area codes, which are tied to specific provinces or cities, the +39 38 prefix is used exclusively for mobile services, enabling subscribers to be reached anywhere within Italy and across international borders. The prefix is part of the broader +39 country code, which is Italy's ITU-T E.164 country calling code.
Number Structure and Formatting
Italian mobile numbers, including those beginning with 38, consist of a total of 10 digits after the country code. The structure is as follows:
- Country Code: +39
- National Significant Number (NSN): 10 digits, starting with the prefix 38 (e.g., 38X XXX XXXX).
When dialing from abroad, the full international format is used: +39 38X XXX XXXX. For example, a typical number might be +39 388 123 4567. Within Italy, callers simply dial the 10-digit national number, omitting the country code: 388 123 4567. It is important to note that Italy does not use a trunk prefix (like '0') for mobile numbers; the number is dialed in its entirety.
Mobile Network Operators and MVNOs
The 38 prefix is allocated to various Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). Historically, the 38 range has been associated with operators such as Wind Tre (now part of WINDTRE) and its predecessors, but due to mobile number portability (MNP), a number starting with 38 may currently be serviced by any Italian operator, including TIM, Vodafone Italia, Iliad, and others. This means that the prefix does not reliably indicate the current network provider; only the subscriber's operator can be confirmed through official databases.
Dialing and Routing Considerations
For international callers, the Italian country code (+39) must be used, followed by the full 10-digit mobile number. When dialing from a foreign landline, the international access code (e.g., 011 from the US, 00 from most European countries) is required before +39. For SMS and multimedia messaging, the same international format is used. VoIP services and mobile apps can also reach these numbers, subject to the service provider's routing agreements.
Because 38 is a mobile prefix, it is non-geographic, meaning that the number is not tied to a specific physical location. This allows users to keep their number when moving within Italy or even when relocating abroad, as long as the subscription remains active. Callers should be aware that charges for calling a 38 number may vary depending on their own operator and whether the call is made from a landline or mobile, and whether it is a domestic or international call.