🕐 Military Time Converter
Convert between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats
About Military Time
Military time uses a 24-hour clock format where the day runs from 0000 (midnight) to 2359 (11:59 PM). It eliminates the need for AM/PM designations and is used by military, emergency services, hospitals, and many countries worldwide.
Quick Conversion Guide
- Midnight: 12:00 AM = 0000 hours
- Morning: 1:00 AM - 11:59 AM = 0100 - 1159 hours (same numbers)
- Noon: 12:00 PM = 1200 hours
- Afternoon/Evening: 1:00 PM - 11:59 PM = 1300 - 2359 hours (add 12)
How to Convert
12-Hour to 24-Hour:
- For AM times: Keep the same (12:00 AM becomes 00:00)
- For PM times: Add 12 to the hour (3:00 PM becomes 15:00)
- Exception: 12:00 PM stays as 12:00
24-Hour to 12-Hour:
- For 00:00-11:59: Add AM (00:00 becomes 12:00 AM)
- For 12:00-23:59: Subtract 12 and add PM (15:00 becomes 3:00 PM)
- Exception: 12:00-12:59 stays as 12:XX PM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is military time?
Military time is a 24-hour clock format that runs from 0000 (midnight) to 2359 (one minute before midnight). It eliminates confusion between AM and PM by using a continuous count of hours throughout the day.
How do I convert 3:30 PM to military time?
Add 12 to any PM hour (except 12 PM). So 3:30 PM becomes 15:30 in military time (3 + 12 = 15). The minutes stay the same.
What is 0000 hours?
0000 hours is midnight, the start of a new day. It's equivalent to 12:00 AM in 12-hour format. Some also use 2400 to represent the end of the day (same moment as 0000 of the next day).
Why use military time?
Military time prevents confusion between AM and PM, which is critical in military operations, healthcare, aviation, and emergency services. It's also the standard format in many countries and provides a clear, unambiguous way to express time.