Group 2 drivers with diabetes, including those of coaches and buses, can now monitor their glucose levels with more modern technology such as the sensor-based Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS) after DVLA changed how diabetes rules are applied to vocational licence holders.
The amendment was introduced on 7 November. It follows a four-week consultation in late 2024. 89% of respondents to that supported the proposal.
Previously, professional drivers relied solely on finger-prick tests to monitor glucose levels before and during driving. Now they can use technology like CGMS, which provides real-time glucose readings. Finger-prick tests may still be used if the driver wishes.
As a result, Group 2 drivers (coach, bus and HGV) are now in line with Group 1 drivers (car and motorcycle), who have been able to use CGMS since 2018. Real-time monitoring will increase safety while giving drivers more flexibility in managing diabetes, DVLA says.
It advises that under the change, Group 2 drivers with diabetes must still pull over safely if they need to confirm glucose readings. Chief Executive Tim Moss says that the new position “is about making life easier for drivers with diabetes while keeping our roads safe.”
Adds Mr Moss: “By embracing modern technology, we are helping thousands of professional drivers to manage their condition more effectively and with greater confidence.”
RHA has applauded the revision. Head of Technical, Engineering and Policy Aaron Peters describes it as “a welcome change for professional drivers living with diabetes, which will help them to monitor and manage their condition more easily and confidently.”
Diabetes UK Policy Manager Nikki Joule agrees and adds that technology such as CGMS “can be transformative for people with diabetes, improving how the condition is managed and helping people to live full lives.”
Ms Joule continues: “We have long been calling for these measures to be expanded since they were first introduced for car and motorcycle licence holders. Today’s announcement will support many [coach], bus and lorry drivers to safely manage their condition while working.”
Updated guidance on driving with diabetes notes that when a Group 2 driver commences treating diabetes with insulin, they still must stop driving and inform the Agency. For Group 2 drivers where diabetes is treated by tablets or non-insulin injections, DVLA must be told. If the condition is treated by diet, no notification is required.
