Latitude/Longitude Format Converter
Convert between Decimal Degrees (DD) and Degrees, Minutes, Seconds (DMS).
Understanding Coordinate Formats
Coordinates can be expressed in two common formats: Decimal Degrees (DD) and Degrees Minutes Seconds (DMS). Both represent the same geographic location.
Decimal Degrees (DD)
A single decimal number representing the coordinate. Example: 40.7128° latitude. Used by GIS software, Google Maps, and most programming APIs.
Degrees Minutes Seconds (DMS)
Traditional navigation format with three parts. Example: 40° 42' 46.08". Common in aviation, marine navigation, and older maps.
Conversion Formula
DD = Degrees + (Minutes / 60) + (Seconds / 3600)
Frequently Asked Questions About Coordinate Formats
To convert decimal degrees to DMS: The whole number is degrees. Multiply the decimal by 60 - the whole number is minutes. Multiply the remaining decimal by 60 for seconds. Example: 40.7128° = 40° 42' 46.08". Our converter does this instantly.
DD (Decimal Degrees) represents coordinates as a single decimal number (e.g., 40.7128°). DMS (Degrees Minutes Seconds) uses three parts (e.g., 40° 42' 46"). DD is easier for calculations and GIS; DMS is traditional for navigation and aviation. Both represent the same location.
Most GPS devices can display both formats. Consumer devices often default to DMS, while GIS software typically uses DD. Google Maps uses DD. Aviation uses DMS. Our converter helps you switch between formats based on your needs.
5 decimal places (0.00001°) gives ~1.1m precision - sufficient for most mapping. 6 decimals give ~11cm precision. 7 decimals give ~1cm precision. For drone mapping, 6-7 decimal places are recommended. More decimals beyond actual GPS accuracy are meaningless.