New changes will enable bus, coach and lorry drivers with diabetes to use Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems.

Bus, coach and lorry drivers with diabetes are now able to monitor their glucose (sugar) levels using modern technology, such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems (CGMS), which use sensors to track glucose levels in real time.

What’s changing

Until now, professional drivers with diabetes had to rely on finger-prick tests to monitor their glucose levels before and during driving. The new rule means they can now use technology like CGMS, which provides real-time glucose readings.

This brings Group 2 drivers (bus and lorry) in line with car and motorcycle drivers (Group 1), who have been allowed to use CGMS since 2018.

What Group 2 drivers need to know

Group 2 drivers:

• can now use CGMS for easier, real-time glucose monitoring
• must still pull over safely if they need to confirm their readings
• should be aware that the change takes effect from 7 November

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.

The change has also been welcomed by health experts and industry leaders.

DVLA modernises diabetes rules for bus and lorry drivers - GOV.UK