When Does Daylight Saving Time Start?

Nick Leason

-Nov 3, 2025

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of advancing clocks during the spring and summer months to make the most of daylight. In the United States, the clock changes happen twice a year: once in the spring, when we "spring forward," and again in the fall, when we "fall back." This article explains when these time changes occur and why they're still in practice.

Key Takeaways

Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins in the spring and ends in the fall.
In the U.S., DST starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.
The practice aims to conserve energy and maximize daylight hours.
Not all states in the U.S. observe DST; Arizona (excluding the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii do not.

Introduction

Daylight Saving Time, often abbreviated as DST, is a seasonal time change. It involves setting the clocks forward one hour in the spring and back one hour in the fall. The primary goal is to make better use of daylight, ostensibly saving energy and aligning waking hours with the sun's position. But when does this time shift happen? And why does it still exist?

What & Why

What is Daylight Saving Time?

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of moving clocks forward one hour from standard time during the spring and summer months. This adjustment provides more daylight during the evening hours. When DST is in effect, the sun sets later, giving people more usable daylight after the workday or school day ends. The purpose of DST is primarily to conserve energy and take advantage of natural daylight for as long as possible.

Why Do We Have Daylight Saving Time?

The initial motivation for DST was to conserve energy during World War I. The idea was to reduce the need for artificial lighting and thus save fuel. Farmers were initially opposed to the practice, but over time, the advantages of having more daylight during evening hours became apparent to many. Today, DST is still practiced for similar reasons, though the effectiveness of energy savings is a topic of ongoing debate. Proponents also argue that it reduces traffic accidents, provides more time for outdoor activities, and boosts retail sales during the extended daylight hours.

When Does Daylight Saving Time Start and End?

In the United States, Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. This means that on the second Sunday in March, clocks are moved forward one hour (e.g., from 2:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.), and on the first Sunday in November, clocks are moved back one hour (e.g., from 2:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.).

Where is Daylight Saving Time Observed?

While most of the United States observes DST, there are exceptions. Arizona (excluding the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii do not participate in DST. These areas remain on standard time year-round. Several U.S. territories also do not observe DST.

Benefits of Daylight Saving Time

The purported benefits of DST include:

Energy Conservation: The shift in time is intended to reduce energy consumption by decreasing the need for artificial lighting.
Increased Outdoor Activity: Longer daylight hours in the evening encourage people to spend more time outdoors, which can improve overall well-being.
Economic Impact: Some businesses, such as retailers and recreational facilities, may experience increased sales due to extended daylight hours.
Public Safety: Some studies suggest that DST can reduce traffic accidents by increasing visibility during evening commutes.

Disadvantages of Daylight Saving Time

While DST has its supporters, there are also several drawbacks: — What Time Is It In Salt Lake City?

Health Concerns: The time change can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to temporary health issues, such as fatigue and mood changes.
Economic Costs: The biannual adjustment can be disruptive to businesses and industries that operate around the clock.
Outdated Practice: With modern advancements in technology and energy efficiency, the need for DST is being questioned by some.
Inconvenience: The time change can be confusing, especially for travelers and those who work across different time zones.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application

Preparing for the Time Change

To prepare for Daylight Saving Time, here’s what you can do: — Age Of Disclosure: What It Is & Why It Matters

Adjust Your Clocks: Remember to adjust your clocks forward one hour in the spring and backward one hour in the fall. This includes clocks on your appliances, such as ovens and microwaves, as well as digital devices.
Plan for Sleep Disruptions: Anticipate a possible disruption to your sleep schedule. Go to bed a little earlier in the days leading up to the time change to help your body adjust.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on announcements and reminders from your local news outlets or online sources. These will often provide updates on the exact dates and times.
Sync Your Devices: Most smartphones, computers, and other connected devices will automatically update their time settings. Ensure your devices are set to update the time automatically.

How DST Affects Daily Life

Work and School Schedules: Be aware of the time change when planning work or school schedules. Ensure that meetings and appointments are properly coordinated.
Travel Plans: If traveling during the time change, adjust your travel plans accordingly. This is particularly crucial if crossing time zones.
Healthcare Appointments: Make sure to arrive on time for medical appointments and adjust any medication schedules if advised by a healthcare professional.

Examples & Use Cases

Impact on Different Industries

Retail: Retailers may experience increased foot traffic and sales during extended daylight hours, especially in the evening.
Transportation: Airlines and public transportation systems must coordinate schedules around the time change. International travel requires careful planning due to differing DST observance.
Healthcare: Hospitals and medical facilities often have to adjust schedules and appointments to accommodate the time change.
Entertainment: The entertainment industry, including movie theaters and event venues, may see increased attendance during evening hours.

Real-life Examples of DST Impact

Traffic Accidents: Studies on traffic accident rates before and after the time change have shown mixed results. Some argue that the change can increase accidents due to sleep disruptions.
Energy Consumption: Energy consumption patterns can shift during DST. However, the overall impact on energy savings remains a subject of debate.
Public Opinion: Public sentiment on DST is mixed. Some people appreciate the extra daylight hours, while others find the time change disruptive.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

Best Practices

Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the dates and times of the time change well in advance.
Update Your Devices: Ensure all your electronic devices are set to update their time automatically.
Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Gradually adjust your sleep schedule a few days before the time change to minimize disruption.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared for potential disruptions, especially in the days immediately following the time change.

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to Change Clocks: One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to change the clocks, especially on older appliances.
Ignoring Sleep Disruptions: Failing to prepare for sleep disruptions can lead to fatigue and other health issues.
Misunderstanding Time Zones: Not accounting for the time change when traveling across time zones can lead to scheduling conflicts.
Overlooking Time-sensitive Tasks: Forgetting to adjust schedules for time-sensitive tasks, such as medication times or appointments.

FAQs

When does Daylight Saving Time begin and end? DST starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November in the U.S.
Does everyone observe Daylight Saving Time? No. Arizona (except the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii do not observe DST.
Why do we have Daylight Saving Time? The primary reason for DST is to make better use of daylight and, potentially, save energy.
How do I adjust my clocks for Daylight Saving Time? Clocks are moved forward one hour in the spring and backward one hour in the fall. Most smartphones and computers update automatically.
What are the potential drawbacks of Daylight Saving Time? Drawbacks include sleep disruptions and the potential for temporary health issues.
Are there any states considering getting rid of Daylight Saving Time? Yes, many states have introduced legislation to end DST. However, federal laws would need to change for this to be fully effective.

Conclusion with CTA

Daylight Saving Time is a practice with a long history and has a continuing impact on many aspects of daily life. Understanding when DST starts and ends, its potential benefits, and its drawbacks can help you manage the twice-yearly time changes more effectively. Stay informed, adjust your routines as needed, and enjoy the changing seasons. — Miami Weather In July: What To Expect

Do you have questions about Daylight Saving Time? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Last updated: June 12, 2024, 09:00 UTC