Driving
Just because you have diabetes does not mean you have to give up driving or learn to drive. You just need to be more prepared before you go out in the car, especially if you are treated with insulin or a drug that affects your blood glucose levels. At present, a person with diabetes can continue to hold a group one licence: car and motorcycle.
People with diabetes treated with insulin can now apply for a category 2 licence, prior to July 2011 you were not allowed to apply to drive lorries or buses. You can now apply as longs you follow the current guidelines. These new guidelines now state that you can apply for a catergory 2 licence if you meet certain medical criteria, if you have an annual independant medical assessment and if you have good glycaemic control. To apply for a category 2 licence you will need to use a blood glucose meter that records your blood glucose levels, that you can then print out and send with your application. This move has been welcomed by Diabetes UK, please visit their website and the DVLA's for more information.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) need to be contacted if you are insulin treated. Following this, you will be sent a DIAB1 medical questionnaire that you need to complete, you can also download the form online at www.dft.gov.uk/dvla. Once you have completed the questionnaire, the DVLA will contact your diabetes specialist doctor (consultant or GP) to find out about your hypoglycaemic awareness and that you meet the required visual standards.
Are there any restrictions?
You are normally issued a licence every three years. Just before the expiry date, you will recieve a reminder to renew and will be asked to return your current licence.
Contact details
Post: Drivers Medical Group, DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU
Telephone: 0870 6000301 Fax: 0845 8500095
Email: eftd@dvla.gsi.gov.uk
