As a mobile device moves from one location area to another, the mobile device detects the different location identifiers broadcast by the wireless network(s) in those locations areas. The mobile device stores the location identifier for the last location area in which the mobile device was located. By comparing a received location identifier to the stored location identifier, the mobile device determines if the mobile device has entered a new location area. If so, the mobile device sends a location update request. In one embodiment, if the location update request is for a location area to which access by the mobile device is restricted, the network sends a communication to the mobile device that triggers the mobile device to update a location identifier stored at the mobile device to the location identifier for the restricted location area so that the mobile can update the network after entering/selecting a different location area.