HGV drivers with diabetes can now use modern technology to monitor their glucose levels instead of having to rely on finger-prick tests, after the DVLA updated its rules.
Until now, professional drivers with the condition had to rely on finger-prick tests before and during driving but the new rules mean they can use tech such as a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS), which tracks glucose in real time.
This brings Group 2 drivers in line with car and motorcycle drivers who have been allowed to use CGMS since 2018.
Tim Moss, DVLA CE, 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.”
Drivers can still use finger-prick tests to monitor their glucose levels, should they choose to.
