Need to convert military time to standard time (or vice versa)? Use our free military time converter tool and learn the 24-hour clock system used by armed forces worldwide.
Introduction
Military time (or the 24-hour clock) is the standard timekeeping system used by armed forces, emergency services, and aviation worldwide. Unlike the 12-hour AM/PM format, military time eliminates confusion by running from 0000 (midnight) to 2359 (11:59 PM).
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ How to read & convert military time instantly
✅ Why militaries use 24-hour time
✅ Common mistakes to avoid
✅ Free online military time converter tool
(Note: Use our interactive military time converter below for instant calculations!)
How Military Time Works (Simple Conversion Chart)
Military time breaks down into four digits:
- First two digits = Hour (00-23)
- Last two digits = Minutes (00-59)
Military to Standard Time Conversion
| Military Time | Standard Time |
|---|---|
| 0000 | 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| 0600 | 6:00 AM |
| 1200 | 12:00 PM (Noon) |
| 1500 | 3:00 PM |
| 2359 | 11:59 PM |
Standard to Military Time Conversion
| Standard Time | Military Time |
|---|---|
| 12:00 AM | 0000 |
| 8:30 AM | 0830 |
| 4:45 PM | 1645 |
| 11:59 PM | 2359 |
Why Does the Military Use 24-Hour Time?
- Prevents Ambiguity – No confusion between AM/PM in critical operations.
- Global Standard – Used by NATO, emergency services, and aviation.
- Simplifies Logistics – Clear timestamps for missions, briefings, and orders.
(Fun Fact: The U.S. military adopted the 24-hour clock in World War II to align with allies.)