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How to Convert Dms to Decimal Degrees on Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Degrees, minutes, and seconds (DMS) is a coordinate format that divides a degree into 60 minutes and each minute into 60 seconds. Decimal degrees is a simpler format where the whole number represents degrees and the decimal portion represents minutes and seconds. This guide explains how to convert between these formats using our calculator.

What is DMS format?

The DMS (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) format is commonly used in geographic coordinates, surveying, and navigation. It breaks down a full circle (360 degrees) into smaller, more precise units:

  • 1 degree = 60 minutes
  • 1 minute = 60 seconds

For example, 45°30'15" means 45 degrees, 30 minutes, and 15 seconds. This format is useful for precise measurements but can be cumbersome for calculations.

Conversion formula

To convert DMS to decimal degrees, use this formula:

Decimal Degrees = Degrees + (Minutes / 60) + (Seconds / 3600)

Where:

  • Degrees = the whole number part of the coordinate
  • Minutes = the minutes portion (divided by 60)
  • Seconds = the seconds portion (divided by 3600)

For negative coordinates (south or west), apply the negative sign to the final decimal degrees result.

How to convert DMS to decimal degrees

Step-by-step method

  1. Identify the degrees, minutes, and seconds components of your DMS coordinate.
  2. Divide the minutes by 60 to convert them to a fraction of a degree.
  3. Divide the seconds by 3600 to convert them to a fraction of a degree.
  4. Add all three values together to get the decimal degrees.
  5. Apply the negative sign if the coordinate is south or west.

Using our calculator

Our calculator handles all these steps automatically. Simply enter your DMS values and click "Calculate" to get the decimal degrees result.

Examples

Example 1: Positive coordinate

Convert 38°53'22" to decimal degrees:

38 + (53 / 60) + (22 / 3600) = 38.889444°

Example 2: Negative coordinate

Convert 12°30'45" S to decimal degrees:

- (12 + (30 / 60) + (45 / 3600)) = -12.5125°

FAQ

Why convert DMS to decimal degrees?

Decimal degrees are easier to work with in calculations, programming, and many mapping systems. They provide a more compact representation of geographic coordinates.

Can I convert decimal degrees back to DMS?

Yes, you can reverse the process using these formulas:

Degrees = Integer part of decimal degrees Minutes = (Decimal part × 60) integer part Seconds = (Decimal part × 3600) remainder

What are common uses for DMS coordinates?

DMS coordinates are used in:

  • GPS devices and navigation systems
  • Surveying and land measurement
  • Older mapping systems and documents
  • Some aviation and maritime applications