When Does Idaho Change Clocks Back to Mountain Standard Time?

We’re only a couple of weeks into Daylight Saving Time, and if you're already counting down the days until we go back to Standard Time, you're not alone.

A Quick History of the Time Change

Daylight Saving Time (DST) was first widely adopted during World War I as a way to conserve fuel and make better use of daylight hours. The idea was that shifting clocks forward in the spring would give people more sunlight in the evening and save energy.

The U.S. adopted it again during World War II and then standardized it nationally with the Uniform Time Act of 1966.

DST Popularity Is Declining

In recent years, the popularity of DST has dipped. Critics argue it disrupts sleep patterns, and has little benefit in today’s world. Studies have shown that the energy savings are minimal, and the health effects—like increased risk of heart attacks and traffic accidents after the spring change—have only added to the debate.

Is Idaho Getting Rid of the Time Change?

Idaho has made attempts to get rid of the time change, but so far, nothing has stuck. In 2020, the Idaho House passed a bill to keep the state on Daylight Saving Time year-round. It died in the Senate.

How Do Idahoans Feel About Daylight Saving?

We ran an informal poll and found that the slight majority of people would rather stay on standard time than continue bouncing back and forth. Some prefer the brighter mornings over later sunsets—and many of you are just tired of adjusting your internal clocks twice a year. And a lot of you said that you didn't care what time we landed on, as long as it came to an end.

When Do We Actually Fall Back?

Idaho returns to Mountain Standard Time on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2:00 AM. That means we’ll “fall back” one hour, gaining a little extra sleep (not really)—but losing some evening daylight.

Which side are you on—standard time or daylight saving?