Central Time (CT) is a widely used time zone in North America, observed as Central Standard Time (CST) at UTC−6 during the fall and winter months, and as Central Daylight Time (CDT) at UTC−5 during the spring and summer months, when daylight saving time is in effect. CT is used across large parts of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Central America, covering major cities such as Chicago, Dallas, Winnipeg, and Mexico City (which remains on CST year-round).

Central Time serves as a critical time zone for regional coordination across the heart of North America. It supports a broad range of activities, from commerce and government operations to agriculture and education, across a large geographic area that spans multiple countries. Its role in connecting time-sensitive sectors between Eastern and Mountain time zones makes it vital for synchronized operations across the continent.

CT is also significant in broadcasting, transportation, logistics, and digital communications, influencing schedules across the U.S. Midwest, southern Canada, and parts of Latin America. Its consistent and widespread use allows for efficient national and international coordination, especially in industries that depend on reliable and unified time references.

Currently following CT.
Operating on the same time (UTC -6).

Currently following CT – Central Time.
Operating on the same time as CT (UTC -6) but with a different time zone name.

North America

US states using CST during winter and CDT during summer: Canadian provinces and territories using CST during winter and CDT during summer: Canadian provinces and territories using CST all year: Mexican states using CST during winter and CDT during summer:

Chihuahua - northeast border area only

Coahuila - north border area only

Nuevo León - north border area only

Tamaulipas - north border area only

Central American countries using CST all year:

Belize

Costa Rica

El Salvador

Guatemala

Honduras

Nicaragua

Time Zones Around the World by Region

Complete Time Zone Abbreviations List