To connect successfully, you’ll need three key elements: the US exit code, Mexico’s country code, and the area code for your destination. Once you understand the pattern, you can reach any Mexican landline or mobile number in seconds.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to dial Mexico step by step. You’ll learn how to tell landline and mobile numbers apart, find the most affordable calling options, and avoid the common mistakes that trip up first-time callers.
Key Takeaways:
- Essential Dialing Sequence: To reach a Mexican number from the US, use this format:
011 + 52 + (1 for mobiles) + area code + local number. Replace011with+on mobile devices. - Mobile vs. Landline Numbers: When dialing mobile numbers from the US, always insert a “1” after Mexico’s country code (52). Landlines don’t require this.
- Know Your Area Codes: Common Mexican area codes include: Mexico City (55), Guadalajara (33), Monterrey (81), Cancún (998), and Tijuana (664).
- VoIP Offers the Best Value: Services like Voiso provide lower rates, better call quality, and flexible access compared to mobile or landline carriers.
- Mobile Carrier Calls Are Costlier: While convenient, mobile and landline carriers typically charge higher rates and offer fewer features than VoIP platforms.
- Calling Cards Have Hidden Costs: Prepaid cards may work for one-off calls but often include fees and rounding that reduce actual call value.
- Format Contacts Properly: Save Mexican numbers in international format (+52 [1 if mobile] [area code] [number]) to avoid connection issues.
- Prep Before Key Calls: Test your internet if using VoIP. Use wired connections and close apps that consume bandwidth for clearer calls.
- Time Your Calls Right: Call during off-peak hours to reduce costs when using traditional carriers. VoIP is generally unaffected by time-of-day pricing.
- Watch for Roaming Fees: Avoid using carrier networks when abroad. Use Wi-Fi or VoIP apps to eliminate roaming charges entirely.
Understanding the basics of calling Mexico from the US
Before you dial a number in Mexico, it’s important to understand how international calling works. Every successful call depends on entering a few key codes in the right order, starting with the US exit code, followed by Mexico’s country code, the area code, and finally, the local number.
Landlines vs. mobile numbers
- Landlines: Usually begin with a two- or three-digit area code based on location.
- Mobile numbers: Start with a 1 after the country code when dialing from the US.
For example, a Mexican mobile number listed locally as 044 55 1234 5678 becomes 011 52 1 55 1234 5678 when dialed from the United States.
The extra “1” in front of Mexican mobile numbers distinguishes them from landlines when dialing internationally, one of the most common points of confusion for first-time callers.
Step-by-step guide to calling Mexico from the US
Once you understand the basics, dialing Mexico from the United States becomes straightforward. Follow these simple steps to make sure your call connects correctly.
Step 1 – dial the US exit code
Every international call made from the United States starts with 011, the code that allows your call to leave the US network.
Tip: On mobile devices, you can replace “011” with a plus sign (+) by holding down “0.” For example, +52 instead of 011 52.
Step 2 – enter Mexico’s country code
Next, dial 52, the official country code for Mexico. This connects your call to the Mexican telephone network.
Your number will now look like:
011 52 or +52
Step 3 – add the Mexican area code
Each city or region in Mexico has a unique area code that must be included before the local number. When dialing internationally, you don’t need to add a “0” before the area code.
Major Mexican area codes include:
| City / region | Area code |
| Mexico City | 55 |
| Guadalajara | 33 |
| Monterrey | 81 |
| Cancún | 998 |
| Tijuana | 664 |
For example, a Mexico City number written locally as 55 1234 5678 becomes 011 52 55 1234 5678 when dialed from the US.
Step 4 – dial the local phone number
Now, enter the local subscriber number for your contact.
- Landline numbers in Mexico are typically 7 or 8 digits long (after the area code).
- Mobile numbers follow the same pattern but require adding a “1” after the country code when calling from abroad.
For instance, a mobile number written locally as 044 55 1234 5678 should be dialed as 011 52 1 55 1234 5678.
Recommended call methods for contacting Mexico
There are several ways to call Mexico from the United States, and the best option depends on how frequently you make international calls, your budget, and the tools you use. Below are the most common methods.
Use VoIP for cost-effective and reliable calls
The simplest and most affordable way to call Mexico is through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). Instead of using traditional phone lines, VoIP sends your calls over the internet, dramatically lowering costs while maintaining excellent audio quality.
With Voiso, you can call directly from your computer, mobile device, or even your browser. There’s no need for additional hardware or complicated setups, just a strong internet connection.
Benefits of using Voiso:
- Crystal-clear call quality, even across borders.
- Lower rates than standard phone carriers.
- Flexible access, call from any device, anywhere.
- Built-in analytics and CRM integration for professional teams.
- Transparent billing, so you always know what you’re paying for.
Whether you’re supporting customers, running international sales, or staying in touch with colleagues in Mexico, Voiso offers a reliable and scalable way to stay connected.
Mobile or landline carrier international calling
Most major US carriers, like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, allow direct international calls to Mexico. These can be convenient if you already have an international plan or a monthly add-on.
Pros:
- Simple to use, dial directly from your existing number.
- Widely available across carriers.
Cons:
- Higher per-minute rates for international calls.
- Limited features compared to VoIP.
- Quality can vary depending on network coverage and time of day.
If you make regular calls to Mexico, VoIP typically delivers better sound, lower rates, and more consistent reliability than mobile or landline providers.
International calling cards
Prepaid calling cards can be a quick fix for one-time or infrequent calls to Mexico. You simply buy a card with a set amount of credit, dial an access number, and then enter your contact’s number.
However, calling cards often come with hidden connection fees, minute rounding, or expiration dates, which can make them less cost-effective in the long term.
Tips for a successful call to Mexico
Even with the correct dialing format, a few best practices can make your international calls clearer, smoother, and more affordable. Here’s how to get the most out of every call to Mexico.
1. Save numbers in the full international format
Always store contacts using the full international format.
For instance, a number listed locally as 55 1234 5678 should be saved as +52 55 1234 5678. This ensures your calls connect correctly through any device or app, whether you’re dialing manually or using Voiso’s smart contact system.
2. Test your connection before important calls
If you’re using VoIP, your internet speed and network stability directly affect call quality.
Before important meetings or sales calls:
- Check your Wi-Fi or switch to a wired connection.
- Close background apps using bandwidth.
- Run a quick test call in Voiso to verify sound clarity.
3. Use Off-Peak Hours to Save Money
Traditional phone carriers often charge higher rates during evenings and weekends. To save money, schedule your calls during off-peak hours.
4. Be Aware of Roaming Charges
If you’re calling from your mobile phone while traveling, international roaming fees can add up quickly. Avoid unnecessary costs by using Wi-Fi or VoIP apps, you’ll connect over the internet instead of your carrier network, eliminating roaming entirely.
5. Double-check the number format before dialing
One extra or missing digit can block your call. Make sure you:
- Include the area code (without leading zeros).
- Add a 1 after the country code when calling mobile numbers.
- Save each number in the proper +52 format to avoid confusion.
FAQs
What is the country code for Mexico from the US?
The country code for Mexico is 52. To call a number in Mexico from the United States, dial 011 (the US exit code), then 52, followed by the area code and the local number.
How do I call a Mexican mobile phone from the US?
To call a mobile number in Mexico from the US, you’ll need to add a 1 after the country code:
011 + 52 + 1 + [area code] + [local number].
Is VoIP the cheapest way to call Mexico?
Yes, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is typically the most affordable and reliable option for calling Mexico. Platforms like Voiso route calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines, which means:
- Lower per-minute rates
- High-definition audio
- No hidden fees or roaming charges
- Easy access from any device
Can I call Mexico for free using internet-based apps?
Yes, if both parties are using the same internet-based app. Services like Voiso, WhatsApp, or Skype allow app-to-app calls over Wi-Fi or data for free. However, if you’re calling from an app to a landline or mobile number, a small fee usually applies, still far cheaper than standard international rates.
How do I find the correct area code for a city in Mexico?
Area codes in Mexico vary by region. Here are a few common ones:
- Mexico City: 55
- Guadalajara: 33
- Monterrey: 81
- Cancún: 998
- Tijuana: 664
What’s the difference between calling a Mexican landline and mobile?
When calling a landline, you simply dial 011 + 52 + area code + local number.
For mobile numbers, include an extra 1 after the country code: 011 + 52 + 1 + [area code] + [local number].
Further Reading
