The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has updated its rules so that bus, coach and lorry drivers with diabetes can now monitor their sugar levels using Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems (CGMS).
This change, which took effect from 7 November, brings Group Two drivers – bus and lorry – in line with car and motorcycle drivers (Group One), who have been allowed to use CGMS since 2018.
Until now, professional drivers with diabetes have had to rely on finger-prick tests to monitor their glucose levels before and during driving.
The move aims to provide drivers with more flexibility in managing diabetes, as well as increased safety through real-time monitoring as CGMS systems use sensors to track glucose levels in real time.
Under the change, Group 2 drivers must still pull over safely if they need to confirm their readings.
The move is supported by medical experts, road safety organisations, diabetes charities, and the road haulage industry.
Also, 89% of people who responded to DVLA’s targeted consultation backed the change.
Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, said: “This change is about making life easier for drivers with diabetes, while keeping our roads safe.
“By embracing modern technology, we’re helping thousands of professional drivers manage their condition more effectively and with greater confidence.”
Aaron Peters, RHA Head of Technical, Engineering and Policy, said: “This is a welcome change for professional drivers living with diabetes which will help them monitor and manage their condition more easily and confidently.
“Diabetes awareness and monitoring have improved over the last few years so it’s right that measures to help people who are affected reflect this.”
