French phone numbers have ten digits and start with 0. Mobile numbers begin with 06 or 07, landline-style numbers with 01 to 05 or 09. In international format the 0 is dropped and +33 is added, so 06 12 34 56 78 becomes +33 6 12 34 56 78. From abroad you can get a French SIM or eSIM, or a temporary French number for a single verification code.
How French numbers are built
| Used for | Digits | |
|---|---|---|
| 06 | Mobile numbers | 10 |
| 073 to 079 | Mobile numbers, opened when 06 ran short | 10 |
| 0700 | Machine-to-machine lines, not phones | 14 |
| 01 to 05 | General-purpose numbers, no longer tied to a region since 2023 | 10 |
| 09 | General-purpose numbers, often internet-box lines | 10 |
Ranges from the French regulator Arcep's numbering overview.
Because 01 to 05 numbers no longer show a region, the first two digits only tell you reliably whether a number is a mobile. For sign-up codes, that is what counts: most services send texts to 06 and 07 numbers.
Writing a French number in international format
| Right or wrong | |
|---|---|
| +33 6 12 34 56 78 | Right |
| France selected, then 6 12 34 56 78 | Right |
| +33 06 12 34 56 78 | Wrong: the 0 stays in, often rejected as invalid |
| France selected, then 33 6 12 34 56 78 | Wrong: 33 is counted twice |
The digits are placeholders. Some forms remove the 0 for you; do not rely on it.
The same rule for other countries: phone number with country code.
Getting a French number from abroad
- French SIM or eSIM
- A real 06 or 07 line for as long as the plan runs. Right for accounts you will log back into.
- Your French number, kept active
- With roaming on, texts and codes still reach you abroad.
- 09 internet lines and calling apps
- Fine for calls, but sign-ups that want a mobile often refuse them.
- Temporary French number
- Receives one code within ten minutes, then closes.
A French number for one verification code
- Choose the service you are signing up for French numbers are offered per service and change daily.
- Pick France and check the success rate If France is weak for your app, Belgium or another EU country may be stronger.
- Enter it without the 0 With France selected in the form, type the nine digits after +33.
- Read the code in the app Nothing after about two minutes? Get another French number at no extra charge.
Telegram with a French number has its own page; all services are on the France page.
Common questions
How many digits does a French phone number have?
Ten, starting with 0. In international format, +33 and nine digits.
Is a 07 number in France a mobile?
Yes. 073 to 079 are mobile ranges, just like 06. 0700 numbers are longer machine-to-machine numbers.
How do I write a French number with +33?
Drop the leading 0: 06 12 34 56 78 becomes +33 6 12 34 56 78.
Will my French number get verification codes while I am abroad?
Yes, if the line is active and roaming lets incoming texts through. Check this before you travel, since many accounts send a code exactly when you sign in from a new place.
Is a 09 number a mobile?
No. 09 numbers are general-purpose lines, often provided with home internet, and many sign-up forms that expect a mobile turn them down.
Can I get a free French phone number?
Free public numbers are shared and rarely work for verification. A temporary French number costs a little and is refunded if no code arrives.