10 Steps to Call the United States from Mexico

Featured Image: [Image of a phone with the Mexican and American flags on the screen]

Are you planning a trip to Mexico and wondering how to stay connected with family and friends back home in the United States? Or maybe you’re a Mexican resident who needs to make a call to the U.S. for business or personal reasons. Whatever your situation, making a call from Mexico to the U.S. can be a simple and affordable process if you know the right steps to take. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make a call to the United States from Mexico, including the different dialing options, calling rates, and any potential fees you may encounter.

When making a call from Mexico to the United States, you have two main dialing options. The first option is to dial the international dialing code for the United States, which is 011, followed by the area code and the phone number. For example, to call a number in New York City, you would dial 011 + 1 + 212 + XXX-XXXX. The second option is to use a calling card or a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service. Calling cards can be purchased from convenience stores or online, and they typically offer lower rates than using a traditional landline or mobile phone. VoIP services allow you to make calls over the internet, and they can be a cost-effective option if you have a strong internet connection.

The cost of calling from Mexico to the United States varies depending on the calling method you choose. Landline calls are typically the most expensive, while VoIP calls are usually the most affordable. Calling cards can offer rates that fall somewhere in between. It’s important to compare the rates of different calling options before you make a call to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. Additionally, some phone service providers may charge additional fees for international calls, so it’s important to check with your provider before making a call to the United States.

Dialing the Exit Code

When calling to the United States from Mexico, the first step is to dial the exit code, which is “00”. This is followed by the country code for the United States, which is “1”.

Once you have dialed the exit code and the country code, you can then dial the area code for the city you are calling in the United States. For example, if you are calling to New York City, you would dial “212”.

After you have dialed the area code, you can then dial the seven-digit phone number for the person or business you are calling.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for dialing to the United States from Mexico:

Step	Dial
1	00 (exit code)
2	1 (country code for the United States)
3	Area code for the city you are calling in the United States
4	Seven-digit phone number for the person or business you are calling

Entering the Country Code

When calling the United States from Mexico, you must include the country code. This three-digit code identifies the United States as the destination country for your call. The country code for the United States is **001**.

To Enter the Country Code:

Dial the exit code for Mexico, which is 00, followed by the country code for the United States, 001. The result should be 00 001.
Next, dial the area code of the location you are calling in the United States. Area codes are three-digit numbers that identify specific geographic regions within the United States.
Finally, dial the seven-digit phone number of the person or business you are calling.

Here is an example of how to dial a phone number in the United States from Mexico:

To Call:	Dial:
A phone number in San Francisco, California	00 001 415 555-1212

Keying in the Area Code

The area code is the next set of numbers you need to dial. It’s a three-digit number that identifies the region where the phone number is located. To find the area code for the city you’re calling, you can use an online directory or check the back of a phone book. Once you have the area code, dial it followed by the seven-digit phone number.

For example, if you’re calling a number in New York City, you would dial 212 followed by the seven-digit phone number. If you’re calling a number in Los Angeles, you would dial 323 followed by the seven-digit phone number.

Here’s a table with some common area codes for major cities in the United States:

City	Area Code
New York City	212
Los Angeles	323
Chicago	312
Houston	713
Philadelphia	215

Inputting the Phone Number

To call a United States number from Mexico, you will need to input the phone number in the following format:

011 + 1 + Area Code + Phone Number

Example:

To call a number in New York City:	011 + 1 + 212 + 555-1212
To call a number in Los Angeles:	011 + 1 + 323 + 555-1212

Remember that you will need to add the exit code “011” before the “1” to call from Mexico.

Here are some additional tips for inputting the phone number:

– Do not include any spaces or dashes in the phone number.
– If you are calling a mobile phone, you may need to add the country code “1” before the area code.
– If you are calling from a landline, you may need to dial “00” before the exit code “011”.

Handling Mobile Phone Calls

Calling the United States from Mexico using a mobile phone involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make a seamless connection:

1. Dialing the Exit Code

To begin, dial the exit code for Mexico, which is “00”. This will connect you to an international line.

2. Entering the Country Code

Next, enter the country code for the United States, which is “1”. This will direct your call to the North American Numbering Plan.

3. Area Code and Phone Number

Follow the country code by dialing the area code of the city or region in the United States you wish to call. After that, enter the seven-digit phone number.

4. Example

To call a phone number in Los Angeles, you would dial: 00 1 213 123-4567.

5. Mobile Network Considerations

Keep in mind the following considerations when using your mobile phone to call the United States:

Network Type	Charges
Prepaid SIM	Pay-as-you-go rates, high international call charges
Postpaid SIM	Monthly subscription, usually includes a certain amount of international minutes
SIM-Free Device	Purchase a local SIM card and use a local provider’s rates

Roaming charges may apply when using a Mexican SIM card in the United States. Consider purchasing a local SIM card if you plan on staying for an extended period.

Utilizing Calling Cards

Calling cards are a convenient option for making international calls from Mexico to the United States. They come with a predetermined number of minutes that you can use, and they often offer competitive rates compared to other methods.

Purchasing Calling Cards

Calling cards can be purchased online or at retail stores that specialize in international calling. When choosing a calling card, consider factors such as the number of minutes included, the rate per minute, and any additional fees or charges. Some calling cards may also offer features such as caller ID, call forwarding, and voicemail.

Using Calling Cards

To use a calling card, you will need to dial the access number provided by the card issuer. This number will typically begin with a toll-free prefix, such as 1-800 or 1-888. Once you have dialed the access number, you will be prompted to enter your calling card number and PIN. After you have entered this information, you will be connected to the United States.

Rates and Fees

The rates for calling cards vary depending on the provider and the destination you are calling. Some calling cards may offer different rates for peak and off-peak hours. It is important to read the terms and conditions of the calling card carefully before making a purchase to avoid any unexpected charges.

Benefits of Using Calling Cards

Calling cards offer several benefits for making international calls from Mexico to the United States, including:

Convenience: Calling cards are easy to use and can be purchased at most retail stores.
Competitive rates: Calling cards often offer competitive rates compared to other methods of international calling.
Predetermined minutes: Calling cards come with a predetermined number of minutes that you can use, which can help you budget your international calling expenses.

Calling Card Provider	Rates (per minute)	Features
Telmex Lada Internacional	$1.50	Caller ID, call forwarding
AT&T Global Calling Card	$1.25	Caller ID, voicemail
Verizon Global Calling Card	$1.00	Caller ID, call waiting

Using Public Payphones

Public payphones are a convenient way to make calls from Mexico to the United States. Almost all public phones in Mexico accept international phone cards. These cards can be purchased at various convenience stores, newsstands, and other retailers. Once you have purchased a phone card, you can follow these steps to make a call:

Find a public payphone.
Insert your phone card into the designated slot.
Select the language you want to use.
Dial the exit code for Mexico (011).
Dial the country code for the United States (1).
Dial the area code for the city you are calling.
Dial the phone number you want to call.

Here is a table summarizing the steps:

Step	Action
1	Find a public payphone.
2	Insert your phone card into the designated slot.
3	Select the language you want to use.
4	Dial the exit code for Mexico (011).
5	Dial the country code for the United States (1).
6	Dial the area code for the city you are calling.
7	Dial the phone number you want to call.

Once you have dialed the number, your call will be connected. The cost of the call will be deducted from your phone card. You can add more time to your card at any time by purchasing a new card or refilling your existing one.

Accessing Free Wi-Fi Options

Mexico offers various free Wi-Fi options to make calling internationally more accessible. These options include:

Coffee Shops and Restaurants

Starbucks, McDonald’s, and other coffee shops and restaurants often provide free Wi-Fi to their customers. You can take advantage of this by connecting to their network and using a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) app to make calls.

Public Libraries

Public libraries in Mexico typically offer free Wi-Fi to patrons. You can visit a library near you, connect to their Wi-Fi, and make calls using VoIP apps.

Parks and Plazas

Many parks and plazas in Mexico offer free Wi-Fi. This can be a great option for making calls while enjoying the outdoors.

Hotels and Hostels

Most hotels and hostels provide free Wi-Fi to their guests. Connect to your hotel or hostel’s Wi-Fi and use a VoIP app to make calls.

Free Wi-Fi Hotspots

Several websites and apps can help you find free Wi-Fi hotspots in Mexico. These resources provide a comprehensive list of locations where you can connect to free Wi-Fi and make calls using VoIP apps.

Using a VPN

If you’re having trouble accessing free Wi-Fi or using a VoIP app, you can try using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN can encrypt your internet connection and allow you to bypass any restrictions that may be preventing you from making calls.

Wi-Fi Calling Apps

Several apps allow you to make Wi-Fi calls. These apps include Skype, Google Hangouts, and WhatsApp. You can download these apps on your smartphone and use them to make calls over Wi-Fi.

Public Wi-Fi Safety Tips

When using public Wi-Fi, it’s essential to take precautions to protect your privacy and security. Here are some tips:

Use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection.
Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as your bank accounts or credit card numbers, while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Be aware of your surroundings and be cautious of anyone who may be trying to access your device or personal information.

Choosing the Most Economical Method

1. Choose the right provider. Some providers offer lower rates for international calls than others. Be sure to compare the rates of several providers before making a decision.

2. Call during off-peak hours. Calls made during off-peak hours are typically cheaper than those made during peak hours. Off-peak hours are typically between 6pm and 7am.

3. Use a calling card. Calling cards can offer significant savings on international calls. You can purchase calling cards from a variety of retailers, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and drugstores.

4. Use a VoIP service. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make international calls over the Internet. VoIP services are typically cheaper than traditional phone calls, but they may not be available in all areas.

5. Use a mobile app. There are a number of mobile apps that allow you to make international calls. Some of these apps are free, while others charge a fee. Be sure to compare the rates of several apps before making a decision.

6. Use a traditional landline. Traditional landlines are typically the most expensive way to make international calls. However, if you have a calling plan that includes international calling, it may be the most economical option for you.

7. Consider using a callback service. Callback services allow you to make international calls without having to dial the international number. The callback service will call you back and connect you to the international number.

8. Use a virtual phone number. A virtual phone number is a phone number that is not associated with a physical location. You can use a virtual phone number to make international calls without having to worry about international calling rates.

9. **Compare the rates of different providers.** The table below compares the rates of several different providers for international calls to the United States.

Provider	Rate per minute
AT&T	$0.25
Verizon	$0.30
T-Mobile	$0.20
Sprint	$0.25

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Unable to Dial:

Ensure you have entered the correct country code (+1) and area code. Verify that the phone number is accurate. Check the international dialing service of your Mexican service provider. If it’s not enabled, activate it through your carrier.

2. Call Dropping:

Move to an area with better network coverage. End and redial the number. Check for any interruptions or damage to the phone line or equipment.

3. Echo or Feedback:

Lower the volume on your phone. Place the phone further away from your ear. Try using earphones or a headset to minimize feedback.

4. Long Delays:

International calls can experience some delay. Ensure you have stable internet or landline connection. Try calling during off-peak hours (e.g., early morning or late evening).

5. Bad Audio Quality:

Check your phone’s audio settings to ensure they are optimal. Ensure there are no background noises or electrical interference. Try using a noise-canceling headset.

6. Busy Signal:

The number you are trying to call may be busy. Try dialing again later. Check if there is a different contact number available.

7. No Answer:

Try calling back again at a different time. Leave a voicemail message if appropriate. Consider using other communication channels such as email or text messaging.

8. Invalid Number:

Verify that the phone number is correct. Check for any errors in dialing. Ensure you are using the correct country code and area code.

9. Service Unavailable:

Check if there is an outage or service interruption in your area. Contact your Mexican service provider for assistance.

10. Expensive Call Costs:

Use a calling card or online service that offers discounted international rates. Check with your carrier for any special plans or promotions that may reduce your call costs. Consider using voice over IP (VoIP) services like Skype or WhatsApp for lower-cost calling.

How to Call the United States from Mexico

Calling the United States from Mexico is a simple process. Here are the steps to follow:

Dial the exit code for Mexico, which is 00.
Dial the country code for the United States, which is 1.
Dial the area code for the city you are calling in the United States.
Dial the local phone number for the person or business you are calling.

For example, to call a landline number in New York City, you would dial 00 1 212 555 1212.

To call a mobile phone number in the United States, you would dial 00 1 555 1212.