No, *67 does not work when calling 911. Emergency dispatchers will still see your phone number and location, even if you try to block it. This is by design, to ensure help can reach you quickly.
How *67 works on regular calls
When you dial *67 before a number, it blocks your caller ID from showing on the recipient’s phone. The person you’re calling might see “Private,” “Restricted,” or “Unknown” instead of your number. This feature works on most landlines and traditional mobile calls for everyday privacy.
However, this only hides your number from the person receiving the call. Your phone carrier still logs the number, and some services can still access it for billing or routing. The block applies only to the visual display, not to the underlying network data.
Why 911 bypasses caller ID blocking
Emergency calls are handled differently by law and technology. When you dial 911, the phone system automatically sends your number and location to the local Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), regardless of any blocking codes like *67. This is required by federal regulations to ensure emergency responders can find and contact you if the call drops.
The system uses Automatic Number Identification (ANI) and Automatic Location Identification (ALI) to route your call correctly. These tools operate behind the scenes and cannot be disabled by the caller. Even if you have permanent caller ID blocking, 911 dispatchers will still receive your information.
Common misunderstandings about privacy and 911
Myth: You can stay anonymous on 911
Some people believe they can hide their identity from 911, but that’s not true. The dispatcher will always see your number and approximate location. This is intentional—emergency services must be able to call you back and send help to the right place.
Myth: *67 works the same on all devices
*67 was designed for traditional phone networks. It may not work on VoIP services, messaging apps, or Wi-Fi calling. Some apps ignore the code entirely, while others may not transmit location data the same way. Relying on *67 in an emergency could give a false sense of privacy.
Myth: Privacy laws protect you during 911 calls
Consumer privacy rules don’t apply to emergency calls. While you can block your number for marketing calls, emergency services are exempt. Dispatchers are trained to handle sensitive information and are bound by confidentiality, but they are legally required to collect your data during a 911 call.
What really matters in an emergency
If you’re in danger or need help, call 911 immediately. Worrying about your number being seen should never stop you from getting help. The system is built to protect your safety first, not your privacy.
Dispatchers use your number and location to send police, fire, or medical help quickly. If you hang up, they can call you back. This feature has saved lives and is why caller ID blocking is overridden. Your information is not shared publicly and is used only for emergency response.