When does Daylight Saving Time (DST) Begin and End in the United States?


Introduction

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a key fixture in the annual calendar of the United States, with most states adjusting their clocks biannually. But when exactly does this shift occur? Let's explore the start and end dates of DST in the U.S.

Marking Time: The Start and End of Daylight Saving Time in the United States

In the United States, Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday of March and ends on the first Sunday of November. These dates are not arbitrary; they were established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and took effect in 2007. This legislation extended the duration of DST, aiming to optimize energy consumption.

On these particular Sundays, the time change takes place at 2:00 a.m. local time. In March, clocks "spring forward" an hour from 2:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m., effectively skipping an hour. In November, clocks "fall back" from 2:00 a.m. back to 1:00 a.m., thereby gaining an extra hour.

The logic behind the 2:00 a.m. changeover time is to minimize disruption. This is a time when most people are asleep and relatively few trains, planes, or buses are running, thereby reducing the potential confusion caused by the shift.

However, it's crucial to note that not all U.S. states observe DST. Hawaii and most of Arizona do not adjust their clocks. U.S. territories like American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands also do not observe DST.

Other DST-related information available on this Daylight Saving Time website:

External Daylight Saving Time related information:

Conclusion

Understanding the timing of Daylight Saving Time in the United States is essential for both residents and international travelers alike. Remember to "spring forward" in March and "fall back" in November, unless you're in a region that doesn't observe DST. Though it can be confusing, being aware of DST's schedule can ensure smooth transitions and help avoid any potential time-related mix-ups.

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