CST — Central Standard Time
UTC-6 / CDT during DST
Current CST Time
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America/Chicago
Central Standard Time (CST) is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6). It is observed in the central United States, central Canada, and Mexico. During daylight saving time, the region switches to Central Daylight Time (CDT, UTC-5).
CST Key Facts
- Full name: Central Standard Time
- Abbreviation: CST
- UTC offset: UTC-6
- DST: Switches to CDT (UTC-5) during summer
- IANA identifier: America/Chicago
- Countries: United States, Canada, Mexico
- Major cities: Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Mexico City, Winnipeg
Understanding CST
Central Standard Time (CST) uses a UTC offset of UTC-6, placing it 6 hours behind UTC. During Daylight Saving Time, the region shifts to CDT (UTC-5), moving clocks forward by one hour.
CST is observed across 3 countries, including United States, Canada, Mexico. Major metropolitan areas in this time zone include Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Mexico City, Winnipeg, making it one of the most commercially active time zones in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CST time?
CST stands for Central Standard Time. It is UTC-6, meaning it is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
What countries use CST?
CST (Central Standard Time) is used in United States, Canada, Mexico. Major cities in this timezone include Chicago, Houston, Dallas.
Does CST observe Daylight Saving Time?
Yes, CST observes Daylight Saving Time. During DST, clocks move forward by 1 hour to CDT (UTC-5). The exact dates vary by country.
What is the UTC offset for CST?
CST has a UTC offset of UTC-6. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to CDT with a UTC offset of UTC-5. The IANA time zone identifier is America/Chicago.
What is CST in military time?
In the military time zone system, CST (UTC-6) is designated with a specific letter code. Military time zones use letters A through Z (excluding J) to represent offsets from UTC.