The blog explains the French phone number format, including landline, mobile, and international dialing rules. It covers area codes, country code (+33), and examples for proper formatting. Businesses can enhance communication, professionalism, and customer reach by using correctly formatted numbers and getting a virtual French number for seamless connectivity.
Calling someone in France or setting up a French contact number for your business requires understanding how the French phone system works. This guide breaks down everything from landline and mobile number formats to international dialing rules and business number options.
Basic Structure of a French Phone Number
- French numbers have 10 digits, starting with a 0 when dialed locally.
- The country code for France is +33, which replaces the initial 0 when dialing internationally.
- Typical local format: 0X XX XX XX XX
- International format: +33 X XX XX XX XX
- Digits are usually grouped in pairs for readability, such as 01 23 45 67 89.
Landline Numbers (Within France)
- Format: 0X XX XX XX XX where the first two digits represent a region.
- 01 – Paris / Île-de-France
- 02 – Northwest France
- 03 – Northeast France
- 04 – Southeast France
- 05 – Southwest France
- Example: A Paris number would be written as 01 23 45 67 89.
- Even when calling within France, the full 10 digits are always used.
Mobile Numbers (Within France)
- Mobile numbers begin with 06 or 07, followed by eight more digits.
- Example: 06 12 34 56 78 or 07 89 01 23 45.
- Mobile prefixes are not region-specific—they work nationwide.
- Many businesses use mobile numbers for flexibility and approachability.
How to Write and Display French Numbers Correctly
- Use spaces every two digits for readability.
- Always include the country code (+33) for international communication.
- Example for websites: +33 1 23 45 67 89
- Businesses should ensure consistency across websites, business listings, and marketing materials.
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Calling France from Abroad
When calling a French number from another country:
- Dial your international access code (e.g., 011 from the U.S.).
- Add 33, the country code for France.
- Remove the initial “0” from the French number.
- Dial the remaining digits.
Example:
- From the U.S. to Paris: 011 33 1 23 45 67 89
- From the U.K. to a mobile: 00 33 6 12 34 56 78
If you frequently call overseas, explore our guide on International Calling for tips to save money and improve call quality.
Special Numbers and Non-Geographic Codes
- 08 numbers: toll-free or shared-cost services.
- 09 numbers: VoIP or non-geographic lines.
- Emergency numbers in France include:
- 15 – Medical assistance
- 17 – Police
- 18 – Fire services
- 112 – EU-wide emergency number
If you offer customer support in France, a toll-free (08) or VoIP (09) number ensures your clients can reach you easily. You can learn more about setting this up on our Business Phone Number page.
Why Correct Formatting Matters for Business
- Avoids missed calls or dialing errors.
- Helps customers instantly recognize your business as local to France.
- Improves search visibility Google often prioritizes verified local numbers.
- Strengthens your brand’s professional image in international markets.
If your business serves global customers, explore our Global Number Solutions to connect seamlessly across borders.
Quick Reference Table
| Scenario | Format | Example |
| Domestic Landline | 0X XX XX XX XX | 01 23 45 67 89 |
| Domestic Mobile | 06/07 XX XX XX XX | 06 12 34 56 78 |
| International Format | +33 X XX XX XX XX | +33 1 23 45 67 89 |
Conclusion
French phone numbers follow a consistent, easy-to-understand structure once you know how to read them. Whether you’re dialing from abroad, setting up a local presence, or integrating your French number into a VoIP system, using the right format ensures clear communication every time.
