Date Published: 29/05/2025

Wearing the wrong sunglasses in Spain could land you a €200 fine

Drivers warned as certain lenses are now banned behind the wheel during daylight and night-time hours

As summer sets in across Spain, many of us are reaching for our sunglasses before heading out for a drive. With the strong Mediterranean sun beating down, a good pair of shades can feel like an essential part of your driving kit. In fact, Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT, actively recommends keeping a pair in the car.

But not all sunglasses are safe, or even legal, to wear behind the wheel. Many drivers may be unaware that wearing the wrong type can lead to a fine of up to €200. And yes, that applies even to expensive, designer brands or trendy holiday purchases. Most people assume any pair offering UV protection is fine for driving, there are specific rules around lens categories and types that are easy to miss.

So, which sunglasses are allowed?

Sunglasses are classified by how much light they block, using a category system from 0 to 4. Categories 2 and 3 are the most commonly used for driving in Spain. Category 2 lenses are suitable for cloudy but bright days, while category 3 lenses offer reliable protection on sunny days and are typically recommended for daytime driving.

However, category 4 lenses, the darkest of all, are a serious no-go for drivers. These are designed for extreme sunlight, such as skiing or mountain sports, and block out almost all light. The DGT warns that wearing them while driving drastically reduces visibility, making them both dangerous and illegal on the road.

If you're not sure which category your sunglasses fall into, check the inside of the arm. You should also look for a CE marking and the reference EN 1836:1997, which shows they meet EU safety standards.

Photochromic and polarised lenses: what’s the difference?

The DGT also highlights concerns around photochromic lenses - the ones that automatically darken in sunlight and lighten in the shade. While convenient, they do not always adjust quickly enough when entering or exiting tunnels, which can result in sudden visibility issues. For this reason, they are not recommended for driving.

Polarised lenses, on the other hand, are a much better option. These reduce glare from reflective surfaces, improving clarity and contrast. The DGT advises choosing polarised sunglasses with a UV filter of category 3 and in neutral lens colours like grey, green or brown.

Driving at night or in tunnels? Take them off

Regardless of the tint level, wearing sunglasses at night, in dark conditions, or inside tunnels is strictly prohibited. Visibility is already reduced in these situations, and sunglasses make it even harder to spot hazards. Police consider this a serious offence and may issue an immediate €200 fine.

Looking after your eyes matters

The DGT also reminds drivers that good vision is essential for road safety. Around 90 percent of the information we rely on while driving is processed through our eyes. So, if you haven’t had your eyesight checked recently, now might be the time to book an appointment with an optician.

In short, sunglasses can protect your eyes and make driving safer… but only if they meet the right standards. Choose wisely, check the label, and avoid unnecessary fines or accidents during your summer travels.

Images: Pixabay

Linea Directa Bottom Article A-L CAR INSURANCE

Address

Avda de las Moreras 8 Mazarron, 30870, Murcia

Tel: (0034) 868 056 278
Mobile: (0034) 626 678 840

View Website

View Google Map

Facebook

Mazarrón-based mechanic offering full services including servicing, air conditioning, ITV checks etc

Decklid is a fully licensed garage, registered with the required industrial bodies, that has an opening license as well as a “carnet de manipulador” to legally repair A/C systems. They are also now part of the Expert Car Service Network Under the AD Recambios umbrella.

The “one stop shop” for your vehicle maintenance, Decklid are fully licenced and legal with both British and Spanish-speaking staff.

Decklid Auto Services is a British-run garage based in Mazarrón, Murcia, opened in 2010.

David Stapleton runs Decklid Autos and initially Diane, his wife, ran the business with Dave, but has recently taken a step away. Their son Hayden has filled the role working on reception.

David & Diane have lived in Spain since 2005, are constantly working hard to improve the workshop to provide more services, and have gained a solid reputation for reliability and hard work amongst the ex-pat community.

This successful, family-run business has 4 mechanics, 1 full-time and 2 part-time admin/reception staff.

Decklid offer a unique customer drop off service directly to your home in the mornings and can collect you the following morning.

David originally trained with BMW after leaving school, completing and passing their apprenticeship scheme, then continuing on to pass their technician scheme as well. After leaving BMW, he retrained as an industrial engineer for Proctor & Gamble, going back to college to gain more qualifications.

He moved to Spain after leaving P&G and worked in a Spanish garage for 3 years before setting up on his own.

The company operates from their own large premises and continue providing their professional service to all car owners in the area, offering a comprehensive range of services.

Servicing, general maintenance and repairs undertaken, including cam belts, clutches, engine repairs and more
ITV pre-checks and full ITV delivery, avoiding the need for owners to take their vehicles to the testing centre
Change of plates
Computer diagnosis & electrical fault finding
Air conditioning maintenance and repairs
Installation of radios, hands-free phone equipment, parking sensors and many other accessories
Air Conditioning re-gas
Special tyre fitting service
Sale of used cars by popular request of loyal customers

Decklid are also able to offer windscreen repair services, so if there is a chip in your windscreen, a small repair now can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Contact Decklid for further details using the safe contact box above or the contact details below: