Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

In this step-by-step guide, learn how to allow standard users to change system time in Windows 10/8.1/7/Server.

Kapil Arya
11x Microsoft MVP · Admin
2 min read
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By default, in Windows client system, only administrators or the local service can change the system time. So when the standard user wants to change the time, they’ll always require the administrator permissions to do so. This is because when a standard user changes the time, the event logged on the system will be reflecting new time instead of the actual time as which events are occurred. Sometimes, IT Pros may require to allow users to change system time for their environment. This article will show you how to allow standard users to change system time in Windows.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

However, there is nothing in Settings app exist that allows you to directly change this behaviour. But luckily you can change the settings using Security Policy snap-in. You need to deploy a security setting with user rights to allow standard users to manage the time on system. Here’s how you can configure the setting.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows 10/8.1/7/Server

1. Press Windows Key + R and put secpol.msc in Run dialog box. Click OK to open Security Policy snap-in.

Local Security Policy Editor

2. In the Security Policy snap-in window, navigate here:

Security Settings > Local Policies > User Rights Assignments

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

3. In the right pane of User Rights Assignment, locate the policy setting named Change the system time and double click on it to modify its status. Then in the property sheet, click on Add User or a Group button.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

4. Next, in Select Users or Groups, click Object Types.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

5. In Object Types, check Groups and click OK.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

6. Back in Select Users or Groups, type Users and click Check names. Then click OK.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

7. Finally, the Users group is added to the policy setting. Click Apply, followed by OK.

Allow standard users to change system time in Windows

 8. Close the Security Policy snap-in and reboot the system to make changes effective.

After reboot, the standard users must be able to change system time.

That’s it!

Read Next: How To Prevent Users From Installing Printer Drivers

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Kapil Arya
11x Microsoft MVP · Admin

Kapil holds Microsoft MVP title in Windows IT Pro expertise, 11-times in a row (2014-2025). He is 8-times Windows Insider MVP as well, and author of 'Windows Group Policy Troubleshooting' book. In 2015, Microsoft India accomplished him as 'Windows 10 Champion'. Being passionate Windows blogger, he loves to help others on fixing their system issues. Kapil has worked with official Microsoft Community Engagement Team (CET) on several community projects. You can subscribe him for news/updates and fixes for Windows.

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