Key Highlights
- Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, November 2, at 2 a.m.
- The U.S. will gain an hour as clocks “fall back” for the 2025 fall time change.
- Hawaii and parts of Arizona do not observe daylight saving time.
- There is ongoing debate over the benefits and drawbacks of changing clock times twice a year.
The End of Daylight Saving Time in the United States
Daylight saving time (DST) comes to an end on Sunday, November 2, at 2 a.m. across most of the United States. This marks the transition from daylight saving time back to standard time for the year 2025.
Impact on Clocks and Daily Routines
As the clocks “fall back” by one hour, people will experience an extra hour of sleep or leisure in the evening. This change can affect various daily routines, from work schedules to personal appointments, requiring individuals to adjust their clocks manually if they do not have automatic settings.
States and Territories Exempt from Daylight Saving Time
Hawaii and most parts of Arizona (except for the Navajo Nation) remain on standard time year-round. Additionally, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands also do not observe daylight saving time.
The History and Debate Surrounding Daylight Saving Time
Daylight saving time originated in Germany during World War I as a measure to save energy. The practice was later adopted by other European countries and the United States, which made it a legal requirement with the Uniform Time Act of 1966.
Despite its long-standing use, there is ongoing debate about the effectiveness and necessity of changing clocks twice a year. Studies suggest that such changes can impact people’s health, leading to increased risks of heart attacks, obesity, and strokes.
Some experts argue that permanent daylight saving time could provide more consistent sunlight in the evening, while others support the current system for its potential economic benefits.
Legislative proposals have been introduced to either make daylight saving time permanent or eliminate it entirely. The Senate passed a bill called the Sunshine Protection Act in 2022 but did not advance further in the House of Representatives.
Implications and Future Outlook
The debate over daylight saving time highlights broader discussions about energy efficiency, public health, and regional preferences. As technology advances and societal needs evolve, the future of DST remains uncertain. States and localities may continue to explore options for adjusting their own time zones or opting out of observing daylight saving time altogether.
For now, residents should prepare for the fall time change on November 2 by setting their clocks back one hour before bedtime. This adjustment will provide an extra hour of evening light but may disrupt daily routines and cause temporary confusion until people adapt to the new schedule.
