Journal · Autorijden
Can you drive with sunglasses on? Filter categories explained
By Dirk en Nick ·
Yes, during the day with Cat. 0 up to and including Cat. 3. Cat. 4 sunglasses must never be used in traffic, and at night or in the twilight you drive without sunglasses.
Yes, you can drive with sunglasses on, as long as the lenses are not too dark. Categories 0 through 3 are allowed in daylight. Category 4 is never suitable for driving. In the dark or at dusk, you should drive without sunglasses.
What do the filter categories mean?
The European standard EN ISO 12312-1 divides sunglasses into five categories based on how much visible light the lenses transmit.
| Category | Light transmission | Driving |
|---|---|---|
| Cat. 0 | 80–100% | Yes |
| Cat. 1 | 43–80% | Yes |
| Cat. 2 | 18–43% | Yes, during the day |
| Cat. 3 | 8–18% | Yes, during the day |
| Cat. 4 | 3–8% | No, never |
Which category is best for driving?
For sunny days in the Netherlands, Cat. 3 is the standard. It tempers bright light and the low sun, but lets in enough light to read road signs and the dashboard clearly.
Are polarized sunglasses better for driving?
Often, yes. Polarized lenses filter glare from wet roads and car hoods. Note: some displays in the car and at gas stations may appear darker through them. Read more in when you need polarized sunglasses.
Which Shadeclub sunglasses are best for driving?
The REX has polarized Cat. 3 lenses and a compact frame that does not interfere with the headrest. The COLLIN and AERO are good all-rounders. We have spent weeks behind the wheel in all three.
