How to Convert Between Time Zones

Général

Learn how to convert times between different time zones accurately, handle daylight saving time, and schedule meetings across the world.

Guide étape par étape

1

Understand UTC offsets

Every time zone is defined as an offset from UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). For example, New York is UTC−5 (or UTC−4 during DST), Tokyo is UTC+9, London is UTC+0 (or UTC+1 during BST).

2

Convert manually

To convert: determine both UTC offsets, subtract the source offset from the target offset, and add the difference to your local time. Example: 3 PM New York (UTC−5) to Tokyo (UTC+9): difference = 14 hours → 3 PM + 14 h = 5 AM next day in Tokyo.

3

Account for Daylight Saving Time (DST)

Many regions shift clocks forward 1 hour in spring and back in fall. DST dates vary by country. Always check current offsets rather than relying on fixed rules.

4

Use the Timezone Converter

Open our Timezone Converter, enter your local time and time zone, select the target time zone, and get the converted time instantly — DST is handled automatically.

5

Schedule international meetings

When scheduling across zones, aim for overlapping business hours. Use the converter to find a time that falls within 9 AM–6 PM for all participants.

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Timezone Converter

Questions fréquentes

Q: What is the difference between UTC and GMT?

A: UTC and GMT are almost identical for practical purposes. UTC is the modern standard; GMT is a legacy time zone. They differ by at most fractions of a second.

Q: How do I read a time zone abbreviation like EST or IST?

A: EST = Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5), IST = India Standard Time (UTC+5:30). Abbreviations can be ambiguous (IST also means Irish/Israel Standard Time), so prefer UTC offsets.

Q: What countries don't observe DST?

A: Most of Asia, Africa, and many South American countries do not observe DST. Japan, China, and India use fixed year-round offsets.