The 802 area code is the single area code serving the entire state of Vermont. Assigned in 1947 as one of the original area codes, 802 has covered all of the Green Mountain State on its own ever since and has become a cherished symbol of Vermont identity, appearing on local brands and apparel across the state.
Quick Summary of the 802 Area Code
| Area Code | 802 |
| State | Vermont (VT) |
| Region | Statewide Vermont |
| Major Cities | Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland, Montpelier, Barre, Essex, Bennington, Brattleboro |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time (ET) – EST / EDT |
| Dialing Format | 7 or 10-digit dialing |
Geographic Coverage
The 802 area code is a statewide code covering all of Vermont, including the largest city of Burlington and neighboring South Burlington and Essex on Lake Champlain, the state capital of Montpelier, the granite city of Barre, Rutland in the south-central region, and Bennington and Brattleboro in the south. It borders New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, and the Canadian province of Quebec.
Time Zone
The 802 area code observes Eastern Time (ET). Clocks follow Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) in winter and shift to Eastern Daylight Time (UTC−4) from mid-March through early November. All of Vermont is on Eastern Time, the same as neighboring New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New York. From the West Coast, this region is three hours ahead of Pacific Time, so a 9:00 AM call in California reaches an 802 number at 12:00 PM local time.
Tip: Business hours across the 802 region generally run 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday.
How to Dial a 802 Number
Area code 802 is not part of an overlay, and as the only area code in Vermont it has traditionally allowed 7-digit local dialing within the state. However, 10-digit dialing is now the recommended nationwide standard, and dialing the full 10-digit number (802 + the seven-digit line number) always works reliably. For international callers, dial your country’s exit code, then +1 (the North American country code), then 802, followed by the seven-digit local number.
Scam Alerts for the 802 Area Code
Like every U.S. area code, 802 has been used by scammers who spoof local numbers to appear trustworthy. Residents across Vermont should stay alert to the following common tactics:
| Scam Type | What to Watch For |
|---|---|
| IRS / Tax Scams | Callers claiming you owe back taxes and threatening arrest unless you pay immediately. |
| Utility Shut-off | Fake Green Mountain Power reps demanding payment to avoid disconnection in winter. |
| Storm / Heating Scam | Fake contractors or fuel dealers demanding upfront payment for winter storm repairs or heating oil. |
| Bank Fraud Alerts | Robocalls impersonating your bank about “suspicious activity” to phish account details. |
If you receive a suspicious call from a 802 number, take these steps to protect yourself:
- Do not share personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords over the phone.
- Hang up and verify by calling the organization back using an official number from its website.
- Report the call to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and to the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program.
- Block the number and consider registering with the National Do Not Call Registry.
Red Flag: Legitimate agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, or your local utility company (Green Mountain Power) will never demand immediate payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. Any 802 caller making such a demand is a scammer.
History and Economy of the 802 Region
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Area code 802 is one of the original 86 codes established in 1947, and because Vermont is one of the least populous states, a single code has always been more than sufficient. The regional economy blends agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industry. Vermont is famous for its dairy farms, cheese, and especially maple syrup – it is the largest maple-syrup producer in the United States – and its craft food and beer scene has a national reputation. Tourism thrives year-round in the Green Mountains, drawing skiers to Stowe and Killington and leaf-peepers for the celebrated fall foliage. Burlington anchors the economy as home to the University of Vermont and a growing technology and healthcare sector, Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the country, and Barre is known worldwide for its granite quarrying and monuments.
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Looking Up an 802 Number
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To identify an 802 caller, use a reverse phone lookup service or search the full 10-digit number online. Many Vermont businesses, government offices, and healthcare providers list their 802 numbers publicly, so a quick search often confirms a legitimate caller. For unknown numbers, let the call go to voicemail – genuine callers usually leave a message.
Nearby & Related Area Codes
Vermont is served by the single 802 area code, with no overlay. These neighboring area codes are worth knowing:
You can also browse our full directory of Vermont area codes for more regional guides.
↑ See the complete list of All US Area Codes by State – every area code across all 50 states in one directory.
Explore Neighboring States
Researching area codes just across the state line? Start with these codes in the states that border Vermont:
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the 802 area code located?
The 802 area code covers the entire state of Vermont, including Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland, Montpelier, Barre, Essex, Bennington, and Brattleboro.
Does Vermont have more than one area code?
No. Vermont is served entirely by the single 802 area code, one of the few states covered by just one code with no overlay.
Do I need to dial 10 digits for 802?
As the only area code in Vermont, 802 has historically allowed 7-digit local dialing, but dialing the full 10 digits is now the recommended standard and always works.
What time zone is the 802 area code in?
The 802 area code is in the Eastern Time Zone (EST/EDT), like all of Vermont.
Related 802 Guides
- Is a 802 call safe? Read Is area code 802 a scam? Spam & safety guide.
- Local coverage: see the Burlington area code guide.
- Worried about spam or robocalls? Browse our Scam Alerts directory.