Are We in PST or PDT?
Time Zones3 min readApril 1, 2026

Are We in PST or PDT?

Are we in PST or PDT? The answer depends on the time of year. PST is Pacific Standard Time (winter, UTC-8) and PDT is Pacific Daylight Time (summer, UTC-7). Here's how to tell.

Marcus Webb
Geography & Time Writer

Are We in PST or PDT?

NameAbbrUTC OffsetWhen Active
Pacific Standard TimePSTUTC-8Nov-Mar
Pacific Daylight TimePDTUTC-7Mar-Nov

The Simple Rule

  • Summer (March-November) = PDT (UTC-7)
  • Winter (November-March) = PST (UTC-8)

Does the Gap with Eastern Time Change?

No. Both Pacific and Eastern observe DST on the same dates, so the gap stays at 3 hours year-round.

Quick Answer

March 8 - November 1 = PDT (UTC-7). November 1 - March 8 = PST (UTC-8).

#PST#PDT#Pacific Time#West Coast