Military Time Converter
Convert between military time (24-hour format) and standard time (12-hour format) with our easy-to-use calculator. Learn about military time conventions and common uses.
Military time, also known as the 24-hour clock system, is a way of measuring time based on a full 24-hour period rather than two 12-hour periods (AM/PM). In this system:
- Hours are numbered from 00 to 23
- Minutes are numbered from 00 to 59
- The day begins at 0000 (midnight) and ends at 2359
- No AM/PM designations are used
From 12-hour to 24-hour:
- For AM times: Use the same hour (except 12 AM becomes 00)
- For PM times: Add 12 to the hour (except 12 PM stays 12)
From 24-hour to 12-hour:
- For hours 00: Use 12 AM
- For hours 01-11: Use same hour with AM
- For hours 12: Use 12 PM
- For hours 13-23: Subtract 12 and use PM
Military time is commonly used in:
- Military operations and communications
- Healthcare settings and hospitals
- Aviation and transportation schedules
- Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance)
- International business and scheduling
- Computer systems and programming
Why is it called military time?
It's called military time because it was first widely adopted by military forces to avoid confusion between AM and PM times during operations.
How do you read military time out loud?
Military time is typically read by pronouncing each digit individually. For example, 1430 is read as "fourteen thirty" or "one four three zero."
Is military time used in other countries?
Yes, the 24-hour clock system is commonly used in many countries around the world, particularly in Europe and South America, for both civilian and military purposes.