Get Ready to "Spring Forward" for Daylight Saving Time 2026

Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday in most of the U.S., but not everywhere.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Daylight Saving Time (DST) will begin at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2026, requiring clocks to be set one hour ahead. This annual time change is observed in most U.S. states, but not in Hawaii, Arizona, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 established DST, which is intended to maximize daylight hours and improve energy efficiency.

Why it matters

The start of DST is a welcome sign of spring for many, as it means longer daylight hours. However, the time change can disrupt sleep schedules and require adjustments. Certain regions and territories in the U.S. do not observe DST, which can cause confusion for travelers.

The details

Most states in the U.S. will set their clocks forward by one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2026. This annual change was originally established by the Uniform Time Act of 1966 to help maximize daylight hours and improve energy efficiency. However, Hawaii, Arizona, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not observe DST and will keep their clocks on standard time.

  • Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2026.
  • The Uniform Time Act of 1966 established the current DST system in the U.S.

The players

Uniform Time Act of 1966

The federal law that established a system of uniform Daylight Saving Time throughout the United States.

Hawaii

One of the U.S. states that does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Arizona

One of the U.S. states that does not observe Daylight Saving Time, except for the Navajo Indian Reservation.

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What’s next

Residents should remember to set their clocks forward by one hour before going to bed on Saturday, March 8, 2026. It's also a good idea to check any devices that don't automatically update, such as microwaves and car clocks.

The takeaway

The annual shift to Daylight Saving Time is a familiar ritual for most Americans, but it's important to remember that not all regions observe the time change. Preparing for the transition by adjusting sleep schedules and double-checking clocks can help make the shift smoother.