What Time Is It In Virginia?

When living in Virginia, it is important to understand the time differences from place to place. Depending on the region, time can vary due to differences in Daylight Savings Time (DST) and other regulations. It is important for Virginians to understand what time it is regardless of where they are located in the state. This article will provide any information one may need on determining what time it is in Virginia.

Standard Time in Virginia

During the months of October-March, the majority of the state observes Standard (normal) time. From east to west, Virginia is in the Eastern Time Zone (EST). With this being said, the time in Virginia is typically 5 hours behind Universal Coordinated Time (UTC). This is commonly known as five o’clock in the Eastern Time Zone or 5:00 ET. This also means that when looking at a time zone map, the state of Virginia is directly mid-way between UTC-4 (Eastern Daylight Time) and UTC-5 (Eastern Standard Time).

Daylight Savings Time in Virginia

During the months of April-September, the majority of the state observes Daylight Savings Time (DST). As previously mentioned, the majority of the state is located in the Eastern Time Zone (EST), so during these months, the time follows Eastern Daylight Time (EDT, UTC-4). Meaning, a “clock hour” is being added to the standard time; hense, ‘springing forward an hour”, in March and ‘falling back an hour’, in November. Therefore, during these months, the time in Virginia is typically 4 hours behind Universal Coordinated Time (UTC). This means the time in Virginia is 4 o’ clock in the Eastern Time Zone or 4:00 ET.

Exceptions to Time Zones in Virginia

Although the majority of Virginia follows Eastern Standard and Daylight Saving Time, there are some areas where it may be different. Local governments in some areas have the right to follow their own time zone regulations. These are commonly called Unincorporated Areas (cities, counties, territories). For instance, the Clingman-Russellville border between Russell and Hampshire Counties, the Lee-Scott-Washington border between Lee and Scott Counties, and the Smyth-Tazewell border between Smyth and Buchanan Counties all observe their own local time and are called the Lee, Russell, and Smyth Time Zones, respectively.

In conclusion, the time in Virginia is typically 5:00 Eastern Time (ET) when following Standard Time, and 4:00 Eastern Time when following Daylight Saving Time. It is important for Virginians to know their local regulations in relation to what time it is, to ensure they are aware of the local time wherever they may be.