PST time now |
12:07:43 Fri, 4 Jul 2025
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UTC Offset: UTC -8 |
Pacific Standard Time (PST) operates at UTC−8 and is widely used along the west coast of North America, including parts of the United States, Canada, and northwestern Mexico, as the standard time during the winter months. It is also commonly referred to as "Pacific Time." During the summer, regions observing PST generally transition to Pacific Daylight Time (PDT, UTC−7) as part of daylight saving time practices.
Importance and Global Use of PST
Pacific Standard Time plays a vital role in synchronizing business, transportation, broadcasting, and digital services across some of North America's most economically significant regions, such as California, Washington, British Columbia, and Baja California. These areas are hubs for technology, entertainment, and trade, making PST critical for consistent scheduling and coordination both locally and internationally.
Globally, PST supports connections across the Pacific Rim, acting as a time bridge between Asian markets and North American operations. Its position between Eastern Time in the US and time zones in East Asia allows for efficient cross-continental collaboration, which is essential for industries that rely on real-time communication and 24-hour global supply chains.
Where and When PST is used worldwide
North America
US states using PST during winter and PDT during summer:
- California
- Idaho - northern counties (panhandle) InfoEncompassing the 10 northernmost counties — Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce, and Shoshone. The rest of Idaho observes MST/MDT time zones.
- Nevada
- Oregon (except for most of Malheur County, which observes MST/MDT)
- Washington
Canadian provinces and territories using PST during winter and PDT during summer:
- British Columbia (except some eastern and southeastern communities) InfoPeace River Regional District (including Dawson Creek and Fort St. John), on MST year-round. Creston area, on MST year-round without daylight saving. Some southeastern communities near the Alberta border (including Cranbrook and Fernie) on MST/MDT time zone.
Mexican states using PST during winter and PDT during summer:
- Baja California
Other Time Zones in UTC -8
Other time zones share the same offset as Pacific Standard Time (PST), but are known by different names. While their clocks align, they may represent different regions or countries based on local time zone definitions.