As the annual switch to daylight saving time (DST) approaches, millions of Americans will once again go through the familiar ritual of setting their clocks forward. While the longer daylight in the evenings is a welcome change for many, losing an hour of sleep and adjusting to the new schedule can be a challenge. Here’s what to expect in 2025 and why this twice-yearly shift continues to stir debate.
When Does Daylight Saving Time Start in 2025?
This year, daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 9, at 2:00 a.m. local standard time. At that moment, clocks will jump ahead to 3:00 a.m., effectively skipping an hour.
For most people, this means longer, brighter evenings—great for outdoor plans, lower electricity usage, and making the most of the extra daylight. The downside? Darker mornings and an hour less sleep, which can leave many feeling groggy for a few days.
Who Doesn’t Observe DST?
Not everyone in the U.S. will be changing their clocks. Some states and territories have opted out of daylight saving time entirely, sticking to standard time year-round:
- Hawaii
- Most of Arizona (except the Navajo Nation, which follows DST)
- Puerto Rico
- Guam
- Northern Mariana Islands
- American Samoa
- U.S. Virgin Islands
Since these regions are closer to the equator and experience minimal seasonal daylight changes, DST isn’t necessary.
Why Do We Still Have Daylight Saving Time?
Originally introduced during World War I to conserve energy, DST became a standard practice in the U.S. to maximize daylight hours. The logic is simple—shifting an hour of sunlight from morning to evening is meant to cut energy costs and promote outdoor activities.
But does it actually save energy? That’s still up for debate. While less artificial lighting is used in the evenings, studies suggest higher morning heating and air conditioning costs may cancel out any real savings.
The Ongoing Debate: Should DST Be Permanent?
For years, lawmakers and citizens have argued over whether to keep the time change or get rid of it altogether. Many believe the twice-a-year shift is outdated and disrupts sleep, productivity, and health.
In 2022, the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill proposing permanent daylight saving time, passed the Senate with overwhelming support. The idea of keeping later sunsets year-round gained traction, but the bill stalled in the House of Representatives and never became law.
Opponents of permanent DST point out that darker winter mornings could pose safety risks, especially for schoolchildren and early commuters. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that brighter evenings could improve mental health, boost economic activity, and enhance overall quality of life.
For now, the clock changes remain, but the debate isn’t going away anytime soon.
How to Prepare for the Time Change
The shift to DST can mess with sleep patterns, causing fatigue and a temporary sense of jet lag. To ease the transition, try:
- Going to bed earlier in the days leading up to the change.
- Adjusting evening routines to slowly shift into the new schedule.
- Getting morning sunlight to help reset your internal clock.
- Checking manual clocks on appliances, vehicles, and devices that don’t update automatically.
Most smartphones, computers, and digital devices will switch over on their own, but older clocks—like those on ovens, microwaves, and some cars—may need to be updated manually.
