Private (Non-Commercial) Drivers' Licenses
For many people with diabetes, driving is a central part of daily life. The ability to drive provides personal freedom and allows people to get to jobs, schools and stores more easily. The good news is that the vast majority of drivers with diabetes are able to safely operate motor vehicles. However, in certain situations symptoms or complications of diabetes may interfere with the ability to drive safely.
Driving Safety
There are precautions that people with diabetes can and should take to make sure they are safe behind the wheel. For more information on safe driving, see the brochure Driving When You Have Diabetes, created by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the American Diabetes Association.
Driver Licensing
All states have special licensing rules governing medical conditions that may apply to people with diabetes. Some states apply these rules to all drivers with diabetes, while many others apply them only to those who have actually experienced episodes of altered consciousness due to the disease or have other complications of diabetes. Special licensing rules can include requirements for periodic medical evaluations from a physician and prohibitions on driving for a period of time after an episode of lost consciousness. The Association has gathered information from each of the 50 states about their policies on licensing drivers with diabetes.
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