As 2026 approaches, many Californians are already wondering when Daylight Saving Time (DST) will begin and end — and how it might affect their sleep, energy levels, and daily routines. While the practice of setting clocks forward in the spring and back in the fall has long sparked debate, it still remains the law in the Golden State for the time being. This means a familiar ritual awaits residents again this year.
Daylight Saving Time has long been a controversial issue in California. Despite overwhelming public support in a 2018 ballot measure to potentially eliminate the biannual time change, federal law still requires states to get Congressional approval before adopting permanent DST. Until that happens, Californians will continue adjusting their clocks twice a year — and adjusting their sleep schedules along with them.
Daylight Saving Time 2026 Overview for California
| Event | Daylight Saving Time Begins |
| Date | Sunday, March 8, 2026 |
| Time | 2 a.m. local time (“spring forward” to 3 a.m.) |
| Effect | Lose one hour of sleep; more evening daylight |
| Standard Time Resumes | Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2 a.m. (“fall back”) |
What changed this year
In 2026, Daylight Saving Time will start on Sunday, March 8 at precisely 2 a.m., when clocks will “spring forward” to 3 a.m. This shift means an hour is effectively lost, making for one shorter night of rest. For millions across California, this sudden one-hour deficit can have a significant impact — especially for shift workers, parents with young children, and individuals with sleep-sensitive health conditions.
Despite strong voter sentiment seen in the 2018 Proposition 7 — which passed with 60% approval to potentially move California to permanent Daylight Saving Time — legislative and federal hurdles remain. As such, the 2026 DST will be enacted just like previous years, under federal Uniform Time Act regulations.
Why the time change is still in place
To eliminate the yearly time change, a state legislature must pass a law adopting permanent Daylight Time — and Congress must then amend the Uniform Time Act to approve such a request. While California has expressed interest, the required federal action has not yet occurred. Therefore, the traditional toggling between Standard and Daylight Saving Time still holds for 2026.
Opponents of the shift often cite health research suggesting abrupt changes to circadian rhythms may increase risk for cardiovascular problems, depression, and workplace incidents immediately following the time switch. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that more evening daylight encourages physical activity, helps reduce traffic collisions, and promotes consumer spending.
The sleep science behind “springing forward”
“Springing forward” by one hour may seem like a mild inconvenience, but for many, particularly early risers or those with existing sleep challenges, the transition disrupts biological rhythms. Our internal body clocks, governed by exposure to light and darkness, can take several days or even weeks to adjust to the new schedule.
“Losing just one hour of sleep can have significant effects, leading to increased irritability, reduced productivity, and impaired attention. It’s crucial to plan ahead and adjust sleep patterns gradually before the switch.”
— Dr. Analisa Ko, Clinical Sleep Specialist
Experts recommend going to bed 15–30 minutes earlier in the days leading up to DST, to gently ease the body into the new routine. Exposure to morning sunlight and avoiding screens late at night can also help moderate the impact of the change.
What residents can do to prepare
Preparation remains key for a smooth transition into DST. Here are some practical ways Californians can get ahead of the shift:
- **Gradually shift bedtime** by 15 minutes earlier each night starting March 1.
- **Expose yourself to morning sunlight** to reset circadian rhythm more quickly.
- **Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake** in the week leading up to the switch.
- **Prioritize sleep hygiene** — maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a restful nighttime environment.
- **Be cautious during commutes** on Monday, March 9, as studies have shown an increase in traffic accidents after DST begins.
How the time change affects different groups
While the entire state experiences the time shift, its effects are not uniform across the population. Certain groups feel the brunt of the transition more acutely than others due to differing schedules, obligations, or health considerations.
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Outdoor businesses (e.g., restaurants, parks) | People with sleep disorders |
| Recreational athletes & evening walkers | Early shift workers |
| Retailers benefiting from evening daylight | Parents of young children |
| Tourism & leisure industries | Students with early school start times |
What experts are saying about California’s DST
While the legal landscape has not shifted yet, scientists and physicians continue to warn of the transition’s toll on public health and safety.
“The evidence is mounting — these transitions lead to sleep disruption, more workplace injuries, and a notable uptick in heart attacks the following Monday. Permanent standard time may be biologically healthier.”
— Dr. Paul Nguyen, Researcher at California Sleep Institute
Meanwhile, economists and policy analysts recognize the benefit of longer evening hours for business activity and consumer behavior, particularly in states like California with robust outdoor and lifestyle industries.
“We see foot traffic increase and consumer spending rise during Daylight Saving Time. For sectors like food and beverage, the positive economic signal is clear.”
— Maria Lopez, Economic Policy Advisor
Looking ahead: Will California end DST?
While many Californians had hoped that 2024 or 2025 would see action on the state’s 2018 DST repeal proposition, no federal legislation has yet crossed the finish line. Several national bills have been proposed in recent years, including the “Sunshine Protection Act,” but have failed to gain final approval.
Until Congress enacts a change — or allows states to opt out fully without reverting to Standard Time — California will continue to follow the traditional DST schedule, including the spring forward that takes effect on March 8, 2026.
Short FAQs about Daylight Saving Time 2026 in California
What date does Daylight Saving Time start in 2026?
In California, DST begins on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 2 a.m., when clocks advance to 3 a.m.
Do we gain or lose an hour during Daylight Saving Time?
In March, we “spring forward” and lose one hour of sleep. We gain it back in November when clocks “fall back.”
Is California getting rid of Daylight Saving Time?
Not yet. Although a 2018 proposition allowed for permanent DST, any change requires both state legislation and federal approval, which has not occurred as of 2026.
How long does the time change take to get used to?
Most people adjust within several days, but some individuals may experience effects for up to two weeks, especially if they have a strict routine.
Who is most affected by the DST change?
People with sleep issues, young children, shift workers, and those with strict early schedules often feel the transition most acutely.
Can I prepare in advance for the time change?
Yes. Experts recommend adjusting bedtime in 15-minute increments in the week before, prioritizing rest, and exposing yourself to early daylight.
When does Daylight Saving Time end in 2026?
DST ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026, when clocks are set back one hour at 2 a.m.
What are the health risks of changing clocks?
Studies show increased risks of heart attacks, depression, and workplace injuries shortly following DST transitions.
About the Author
