Missouri

Are applicants for a driver’s license asked questions about diabetes?

No specific questions about diabetes are asked. However, the driver’s license application (first time and renewal) asks the applicant whether he or she has or ever has had blackouts. If an applicant answers “Yes” to this question, he or she may be required to have a physician complete a medical evaluation form.

What other ways does the state have to find out about people who may not be able to drive safely because of a medical condition?

The state accepts reports of potentially unsafe drivers from: police officers, the courts; physicians, family members and hospitals. The licensing agency does not accept anonymous reports or reports from the general public, and investigates the referral if its source is questionable before evaluating the driver. Drivers may also be required to have a medical evaluation if they have impairments which are observed by licensing agency personnel during the licensing process, or if they are involved in a certain number of accidents or accumulate a given number of points.

What is the process for medical evaluations of drivers?

When the licensing agency receives information that a driver may be medically unsafe, through answers to questions on the license application or through one of the referral sources listed above, agency personnel investigate the situation to decide whether a medical evaluation is required. There is no requirement that individuals with diabetes undergo medical evaluations, but if there is evidence of a condition related to diabetes that may affect driving (such as episodes of loss of consciousness), such an evaluation may be required. The medical evaluation form asks the physician whether or not the individual is capable of operating a motor vehicle safely and responsibly, and asks the physician to recommend appropriate licensing restrictions. Periodic follow-up medical evaluations may be required on the recommendation of the physician.

Who makes decisions about whether drivers are medically qualified?

Decisions are generally made by licensing agency personnel. In certain situations, cases may be referred to the state’s independent medical advisory board for a recommendation.

Has the state adopted specific policies about whether people with diabetes are allowed to drive?

No. Missouri has not adopted specific medical guidelines related to diabetes, except for its guidelines related to episodes of loss of consciousness (see below).

What is the state’s policy about episodes of altered consciousness or loss of consciousness that may be due to diabetes?

A medical evaluation is required for any loss of consciousness within the preceding six months. A driver must be free of episodes for six months or have a statement from a physician indicating that the condition will not impair driving ability.

What is the process for appealing a decision of the state regarding a driver’s license?

Drivers whose privileges are suspended or restricted for medical conditions may appeal to the circuit court in the county of residence; an appeal must be filed within 30 days of the decision.

May an individual whose license is suspended or denied because of diabetes receive a probationary or restricted license?

No.

Is an identification card available for non-drivers?

Yes, with proper identification and payment of a fee.

Resources

Driver licensing in Missouri is administered by the Customer Assistance Bureau within the Division of Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing of the state Department of Revenue.