# The Java EE 7 Tutorial

# 20.3 Date and Number Formatting

Java programs use the `DateFormat.getDateInstance(int,` `locale)` method to parse and format dates in a locale-sensitive manner. Java programs use the `NumberFormat.get` XXX `Instance(locale)` method, where XXX can be `Currency`, `Number`, or `Percent`, to parse and format numerical values in a locale-sensitive manner.

An application can use date/time and number converters to format dates and numbers in a locale-sensitive manner. For example, a shipping date could be converted as follows:

    <h:outputText value="#{cashier.shipDate}">
        <f:convertDateTime dateStyle="full"/>
    </h:outputText>

For information on JavaServer Faces converters, see Using the Standard Converters.