What’s Virginia’s Time Zone? The Surprising Answer You Need to Know Before Traveling!

Mon, 04 May 2026 11:19:04 +0000

Virginia’s Time Zone: The Surprising Answer You Need Before Traveling If you’re planning a trip to Virginia, one detail that often surprises visitors is the state’s time zone. While most travelers are familiar with Eastern Time (ET), Virginia’s unique placement within the Eastern Time Zone—and its shared connection to the U.S. Eastern Time (US ET) and the newer, rare Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)—has some fascinating implications. Here’s the surprising but essential info you need to know ahead of your travel. Virginia Falls Under Eastern Time (ET)
Virginia operates on Eastern Time year-round, aligning with the Eastern Time Zone across most of the U.S. Northeast. This means when it’s noon EST in Virginia, it’s also noon everywhere from Florida to Maine—and perfectly synced with major travel hubs like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. But Wait—What About Daylight Saving Time?
Virginia observes Standard Time from the first Sunday in November to the second Sunday in March, switching automatically to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) starting the first Sunday in March. This transition means clocks “spring forward” and “fall back,” affecting travel schedules, flight timings, and event bookings. During daylight saving, Virginia’s clocks temporarily shift one hour ahead from standard time.