DD to DMS Converter
Convert latitude and longitude between decimal degrees (DD) and degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS), in either direction. One pair, a pasted list, or a whole CSV.
- Runs in your browser
- No sign-up
- Free
Direction
Coordinates
Negative is south.
Negative is west.
Result
Understanding coordinate formats
Coordinates can be written two common ways: decimal degrees (DD) and degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS). Both describe the same point on the ground.
Decimal degrees (DD)
A single decimal number per axis, for example 40.7128°. This is what GIS software, Google Maps and most programming APIs expect.
Degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS)
The traditional navigation format with three parts, for example 40° 42' 46.08" N. Still common in aviation, marine navigation and older survey records.
The conversion
DD = Degrees + (Minutes / 60) + (Seconds / 3600), with the sign taken from the hemisphere: S and W are negative.
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.