Tennessee

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

The driver’s license application (first time and renewal) asks the applicant whether he or she has, or is being treated for, any physical or mental condition that would interfere with his or her ability to drive. Applicants who answer “Yes” to this question must describe the condition and must have a medical evaluation form filled out by their physician.

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, friends, other citizens and hospitals. The licensing agency does accept anonymous reports, but investigates reports that do not come from a reliable source (such as a physician or law enforcement officer) before the driver is required to go through the medical evaluation process. 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 when involved in an accident that results in a fatality or an accident where investigation suggests that a medical condition may have played a role.

What is the process for medical evaluations of drivers?

When the licensing agency has reason to believe a driver may be medically unsafe, either because the driver gave positive answers to medical questions on the license application or because of a report from one of the other sources listed above, it will require the individual to have a medical evaluation. When this happens, an evaluation form is sent to the individual, which must be completed by his or her physician based on an examination conducted within the last 12 months. The medical evaluation form asks the physician about the date of onset of diabetes, whether the individual takes insulin, the amount and type of insulin taken, whether (and how often) the individual has suffered from coma or insulin shock, and whether the individual has any warning of oncoming insulin shock or coma. In addition, the physician is asked to provide test results such as blood sugar readings and urinalysis readings. Finally, the physician must give an opinion as to whether the individual is medically and mentally qualified to operate a motor vehicle. Medical evaluation forms are returned to the licensing agency for review and a licensing decision. Periodic follow-up medical evaluations may be required yearly or at each license renewal (5 years).

Who makes decisions about whether drivers are medically qualified?

Medical forms are evaluated by non-medical licensing agency personnel who may make a licensing decision based on the information provided or who may refer the case 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. Tennessee 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?

Individuals who experience momentary lapses of consciousness or control due to diabetes must be episode free for one year and have a favorable medical statement from his or her physician in order to be licensed. However, the person may be approved for driving privileges after having been episode free for six months, upon receipt of a favorable recommendation from his or her physician, approval of the medical advisory board, and approval of the licensing agency. The physician’s medical statement must contain the following information: the causes and frequency of the episodes; medications taken, if any, and their effects on the person’s ability to drive; the person’s compliance with the treatment or medications; and the physician’s recommendation toward licensing.

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

Drivers may request an administrative hearing before a representative of the Department (a hearing officer) within 20 days of notification of licensing action.

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

A license may be available to individuals who have had episodes of loss of consciousness but have not yet been episode-free for one year (see above).

Is an identification card available for non-drivers?

Yes, with proper identification.

Resources

Driver’s licensing in Tennessee is administered by the state Department of Motor Vehicles.