Q&A for How to Use a Pay Phone

Every machine is different. Most that I have encountered use dimes or quarters. Remember, most require exact change.

It's like the coin slot in vending machines. It returns your coin should the machine fail to operate properly.

Check with your phone carrier about a international phone card to put in the public phone.

Yes, you do. It has not been spent on anything.

A pay phone can call any number that has ten digits (US or Canada) or more (international with modifications).

Very few people use pay phones nowadays, because they're hard to find. While most people use cellphones, pay phones can still be essential for those who do not own a cellphone or are not tech-savvy.

Yes, the recipient of your call will typically see the pay phone's number displayed. However, most pay phones do not have caller ID, so you will not see the number of the person you are calling.

Yes, you can leave a message as long as the recipient's phone number has voicemail service enabled. If they do not pick up, your call will be directed to their voicemail.

The coin release allows you to retrieve your money if the number is busy, no one answers, or there is a poor connection.

Most pay phones do not accept credit cards directly for calls. However, if you have a calling card that is funded by a credit card, you may be able to use that. It is generally advisable to avoid providing sensitive financial details, such as your credit card number, over a pay phone.

In the United States, it was common to dial the area code and prefix, followed by TAXI (8294), to call a cab from a payphone. However, current methods may vary by location, so you should check local dialing instructions or directory assistance to find the best way to contact a taxi or driving service.