As daylight saving time approaches its end in 2018, many people ask when exactly do we turn our clocks back. Understanding the precise date and local rules helps avoid confusion and ensures devices, appointments, and schedules stay accurate across time zones.
Below is a detailed overview that captures the key moments, regional differences, and practical steps for the 2018 clock change, followed by specialized sections that address common scenarios and frequently asked questions.
| Region | Date in 2018 | Time of Change | Direction | Typical Local Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Sunday, November 4 | 2:00 AM local | Back 1 hour | Fall back / End of DST |
| Canada (most provinces) | Sunday, November 4 | 2:00 AM local | Back 1 hour | Fall back / End of DST |
| European Union | Sunday, October 28 | 3:00 AM CEST | Back 1 hour | End of summer time |
| Australia (southern states) | Sunday, April 1 | 3:00 AEDT | Back 1 hour | End of daylight saving |
| United Kingdom | Sunday, October 28 | 2:00 BST | Back 1 hour | Fall back / GMT starts |
United States Fall Back Schedule 2018
In the United States, the transition occurs on the first Sunday in November, which was November 4 in 2018. At 2:00 AM local daylight time, clocks are set back one hour to 1:00 AM standard time, repeating the hour between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM.
States That Do Not Observe Daylight Saving Time
While most states move the clock back, Hawaii and most of Arizona remain on standard time year-round. Travelers and residents in these regions do not change their clocks in November, which affects coordination with neighboring areas.
Canada Time Change Details
Most Canadian provinces follow the same schedule as the United States, setting clocks back on Sunday, November 4, 2018, at 2:00 AM local daylight time. Saskatchewan and parts of Quebec differ slightly, with some regions staying on standard time all year or observing a distinct schedule.
European Union End of Summer Time
In the European Union, daylight saving time for 2018 ended on Sunday, October 28. At 3:00 AM Central European Summer Time, clocks across member states were turned back one hour to Central European Time, restoring standard winter time until the following March.
Southern Hemisphere Settings
Countries in the Southern Hemisphere observe daylight saving in their summer months, which occur during the Northern Hemisphere winter. In 2018, many regions, including parts of Australia, turned clocks back on Sunday, April 1, shifting from Australian Eastern Daylight Time to Australian Eastern Standard Time.
Key Takeaways for 2018 Clock Changes
- United States and most of Canada: Sunday, November 4, 2018, at 2:00 AM.
- European Union: Sunday, October 28, 2018, at 3:00 AM CEST.
- Australia (southern states): Sunday, April 1, 2018.
- Confirm local rules if you live in Arizona, Hawaii, Saskatchewan, or other regions with exceptions.
- Update devices and schedules ahead of the transition to avoid timing issues.
FAQ
Reader questions
What happens if I do not update my devices after the change?
Most modern phones and computers adjust automatically, but older devices or those without internet access may show the wrong time, causing missed appointments or confusion with scheduling.
Do all parts of Canada change the clocks in November 2018?
No, Saskatchewan generally does not observe daylight saving time, and some regions in Quebec may differ, so local rules should be verified for specific locations.
Will my calendar events move after the clock is turned back?
Digital calendars usually keep events at the same local wall-clock time, but meetings scheduled with time zone awareness may shift relative to participants in other regions.
Why does the date differ between the United States and Europe in 2018?
Different regional laws and historical practices cause the change to occur on separate Sundays, which can affect transatlantic coordination for flights, broadcasts, and online services.