Twice each year, millions of Californians adjust their clocks—springing forward or falling back—in observance of daylight saving time. The practice, which has been both embraced and criticized, continues to affect everything from energy consumption to sleep patterns. In 2026, the state of California will once again follow the federally mandated time change schedule, and knowing the exact date and what it means is essential for planning, from school routines to travel itineraries.
Despite past efforts to abolish time switching in the Golden State, the biannual ritual is still in place. For 2026, clocks will spring forward in March and fall back in November. The process can cause confusion, especially with smartphones often updating automatically while analog household clocks do not. Getting ahead of the transition can ensure smoother mornings, better productivity, and fewer missed appointments.
California Time Change Overview for 2026
| Event | Date | Time | Clock Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start of Daylight Saving Time | Sunday, March 8, 2026 | 2:00 AM | Move clocks forward 1 hour |
| End of Daylight Saving Time | Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 2:00 AM | Move clocks back 1 hour |
What changed this year
In 2026, there are no legislative changes to California’s approach to daylight saving time. Despite voter-approved Proposition 7 in 2018, which gave lawmakers the ability to eliminate the time switch if federal law permitted, no further action has been taken at the state or federal level to cement permanent daylight time or abolish the practice. As a result, Californians will continue to follow the same schedule observed nationally, barring a few exceptions like Arizona and Hawaii, which do not observe DST.
However, an increasing number of residents have voiced frustrations over the continued clock changes. Research into the impacts on human health, productivity, and energy use has gained traction, prompting renewed debate in both state and national conversations.
Why daylight saving time continues
Daylight saving time was first widely adopted during World War I and again during World War II to conserve fuel and electricity. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 created the current national DST timeframe, running from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November. California, like most states, follows this guideline.
Supporters argue that longer evenings promote outdoor activity, reduce crime, and lower lighting costs. Critics, however, point to disrupted sleep patterns, increased risk of heart attacks, and negative effects on children and early-morning workers. With little consensus, the issue remains gridlocked in legislative bodies.
“It’s clear the public is fatigued by these semiannual time shifts, yet we don’t have the coordination in Congress to fix it. It’s frustrating.”
— Dr. Susan Malloy, Political Science Professor
How the time change affects Californians
The effects of daylight saving time go beyond just one hour. In March, people effectively lose an hour of sleep on the day of the switch, which can impact alertness and health. In November, the shift allows for an extra hour of morning daylight, though evenings become darker sooner.
Businesses, especially those in travel, technology, and broadcasting, must make systemic updates to account for the change. For families, especially those with young children, the adjustment can create temporary sleep cycle challenges.
“We see a spike in fatigue-related car accidents the week after the change, especially in spring. It’s a public safety issue.”
— Officer Daniel Reyes, California Highway Patrol
Tips to prepare for the switch
Adjusting to the clock change can be easier with some small yet impactful steps:
- Gradually shift your sleep schedule by 10–15 minutes a few days before the change.
- Make sure all manual clocks and household devices are updated before bedtime.
- Maximize exposure to natural light, especially in the mornings, to reset your internal clock.
- Limit heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol near bedtime during the transition window.
- Reduce screen time in the hour before sleep to fall asleep more easily.
Winners and losers of daylight saving time
| Group | Effect |
|---|---|
| Retail Businesses | More evening daylight may encourage late shopping and higher sales. |
| Parents with Small Children | Struggle with sleep routine changes and earlier nightfall. |
| Commuters | Enjoy more daylight when leaving work; however, dark mornings in spring pose hazards. |
| Health Professionals | See higher patient complaints of fatigue, migraines, and sleep issues post-switch. |
| Outdoor Enthusiasts | Benefit from longer daylight hours for after-work activities. |
Future of daylight saving time in California
The future remains uncertain for daylight saving time in California. Even though over 60% of voters backed changes to the system through Proposition 7, the measure was only the first step. Implementation still requires a two-thirds vote in the state legislature and federal approval—both of which have yet to materialize.
Multiple federal bills have been introduced to opt nationwide into permanent daylight time, but none have become law as of 2024. California lawmakers continue to study the long-term effects and political ramifications of abandoning the current system.
“The path to real reform is muddled with federal roadblocks. We need a national directive to make state-level transitions possible.”
— Laura Kim, State Policy Analyst
Short FAQs
When do we change the clocks in California in 2026?
Clocks move forward 1 hour at 2:00 AM on Sunday, March 8, 2026, and move back 1 hour at 2:00 AM on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
Do I gain or lose an hour in daylight saving time?
You lose one hour of sleep in March when clocks move forward but gain one hour back in November when clocks move back.
Does my phone update automatically for daylight saving time?
Most modern smartphones update the time automatically. Make sure your settings allow for network-provided time changes.
Is California getting rid of daylight saving time?
Not yet. Voters approved Proposition 7 to explore the option, but final legislative and federal approval has not occurred.
What are the health impacts of the time change?
Time changes can temporarily disrupt sleep patterns, increase risk for fatigue-related accidents, and may impact cardiovascular health.
Why doesn’t Arizona observe daylight saving time?
Arizona opted out due to high temperatures. The state determined that extra daylight drove more energy use for air conditioning.