An IP (Ingress Protection) rating has two digits: the first is protection from solids like dust (0–6), the second is protection from water (0–8). For lighting, the water digit matters most. In bathrooms, match the rating to the zone — IP65 directly over a shower, IP44 near a basin. Outdoors, use IP44 for sheltered spots and IP65 for anything fully exposed.
Key takeaways
- First digit = dust/solids (0–6). Second digit = water (0–8). Higher = more protected.
- Bathroom Zone 1 (over bath/shower): IP65. Zone 2 (near basin): IP44.
- Outdoor sheltered: IP44. Outdoor exposed: IP65. Ground/near water: IP67.
- Indoor dry rooms only need IP20.
- When unsure, choose a higher rating — it never hurts.
On this page
- What does an IP rating mean?
- Bathroom zones and their IP requirements
- Outdoor IP requirements
- Common IP ratings, decoded
- Frequently asked questions
What does an IP rating mean?
IP stands for Ingress Protection. The two digits are read separately — IP65 is "six-five," not "sixty-five." Here's what each digit certifies:
| Digit | First (solids/dust) | Second (water) |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Objects >1 mm | Splashing water |
| 5 | Dust-protected | Low-pressure water jets |
| 6 | Dust-tight | Powerful water jets |
| 7 | — | Immersion up to 1 m |
Bathroom zones and their IP requirements
Bathrooms are divided into zones by how likely water is to reach them. Match the fixture to the zone:
| Zone | Where | Minimum IP |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Inside the bath or shower | IP67 |
| Zone 1 | Above bath/shower, up to 2.25 m | IP65 |
| Zone 2 | 0.6 m beyond Zone 1, around the basin | IP44 |
| Outside zones | Rest of the room | IP20 (no water exposure) |
Outdoor IP requirements
Outside, the second digit does the heavy lifting. Use IP44 for sheltered walls and covered porches, IP65 for anything fully exposed to rain, and IP67 for ground-level, in-ground or near-water fixtures. For the full exterior scheme, see our outdoor lighting guide.
Common IP ratings, decoded
- IP20 — indoor only, no water protection. Living rooms, bedrooms, dry hallways.
- IP44 — splash-resistant. Bathroom Zone 2, sheltered outdoor walls.
- IP54 — dust-protected and splash-resistant. Exposed but not drenched walls.
- IP65 — dust-tight, resists water jets. Showers (Zone 1) and exposed outdoor fixtures.
- IP67 — dust-tight, withstands temporary immersion. Ground lights and poolside.
Frequently asked questions
What does IP65 mean?
IP65 means the fixture is completely dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. It's suitable for shower zones and fully exposed outdoor locations.
What IP rating do I need for a shower light?
IP65 in Zone 1 — the area directly above the bath or shower up to 2.25 m. Inside the shower enclosure itself (Zone 0), use IP67.
Is IP44 waterproof?
Not fully. IP44 is splash-resistant — fine for a basin area or a sheltered outdoor wall, but not for direct jets or heavy rain, which need IP65.
What is the difference between IP44 and IP65?
IP65 adds two things over IP44: it's dust-tight (first digit 6 vs 4) and it resists water jets rather than just splashes (second digit 5 vs 4). Use IP65 where water is likely, IP44 where it's only occasional.
What IP rating for a bathroom ceiling light?
It depends on the zone. Directly over the shower, IP65; elsewhere on the ceiling outside the zones, IP20 is acceptable, though many choose IP44 for peace of mind in a humid room.
Last updated: July 2026 · Written by Artevaris Editorial
Related reading: How to Choose Outdoor Lighting · Wall Lights & Sconces Placement · Warm vs Cool Light
Shop weather- and damp-rated fixtures: outdoor lighting and wall lights.
