Idaho local data guide

Daylight Saving Time Observance in Idaho

Yes, Idaho observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) statewide. Despite being split between two time zones, all counties participate in the biannual transition, and there are currently no exemptions for any region in the state.

Updated with grounded research as of 2026-08-28.

The short answer

Yes, Idaho observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) in every county across the state. Whether you are living in the northern panhandle or the southern region, all locations participate in the biannual clock change. As of August 28, 2026, no counties or municipalities in Idaho are exempt from this practice.

Key facts

Statewide Participation
All 44 Idaho counties observe Daylight Saving Time; there are no regions in the state that remain on standard time year-round.
Time Zone Division
The state is divided between the Pacific Time Zone (north of the Salmon River) and the Mountain Time Zone (south of the Salmon River).

Idaho's Time Zone Split

Idaho is one of the few U.S. states split between two time zones. The boundary is largely defined by the Salmon River, which separates the state's northern panhandle from the southern region.

  • Pacific Time Zone: Covers the northern panhandle, including counties such as Kootenai, Latah, and Nez Perce.
  • Mountain Time Zone: Covers the remainder of the state, including the capital city of Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley.

Observance Practices

While some U.S. states like Arizona and Hawaii have chosen to opt out of Daylight Saving Time, Idaho fully adheres to the federal schedule. Clocks are adjusted forward in the spring and backward in the fall throughout every county in the state.

Relocation and Planning Implications

If you are relocating to or moving within Idaho, it is helpful to be aware of the time zone boundary, particularly if your work or personal life spans across the northern and southern regions. Meetings, transport schedules, and virtual appointments may be affected by the one-hour time difference between Boise and cities like Coeur d'Alene.

Common questions

Are there any parts of Idaho that do not change their clocks?

No. Unlike some other states, Idaho has no exemptions for Daylight Saving Time. Every county, city, and town in the state transitions their clocks twice a year.

Does the time zone split cause confusion during the transition?

It can. While both zones switch to DST, they do so relative to their specific local time. If you travel between the Panhandle (Pacific Time) and Southern Idaho (Mountain Time), you will cross a time zone boundary regardless of the season.

Related Idaho questions

  • What time zones are used in Idaho?
  • Why is Idaho split between two time zones?
  • Are there any U.S. states that do not observe Daylight Saving Time?

Sources and verification