Wisconsin

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

Yes. The driver’s license application (first time and renewal) asks the applicant whether he or she has, during the last year, had a loss of consciousness or muscle control caused by any of a list of conditions, one of which is diabetes. Applicants who answer “Yes” to this question must submit with their application a letter of explanation.

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 not accept anonymous reports, and investigates reports if there is concern regarding malicious intent. 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.

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. No medical evaluation is required if the driver is stable and reliable with care. When a medical evaluation is required, a form is given to the individual, which must be completed by his or her physician within 30 days, based on an examination within the last three months. The medical evaluation form asks the physician to provide information on the individual’s diagnoses, medications and treatment, including whether the condition is currently stable and whether the individual is reliable in following the treatment program. The physician is also asked to give dates and details of any episodes of altered consciousness, and an opinion as to whether the individual’s driving ability is likely to be impaired by the condition or any medications taken. The physician also must provide an A1C test result and the last three fasting blood glucose readings, and is asked whether the individual has been hospitalized for treatment of diabetes and whether the individual has warning of impending hypoglycemic reactions. Finally, the physician must provide an opinion about whether the individual can drive safely, and can recommend licensing restrictions. Medical evaluation forms are returned to the licensing agency for review and a licensing decision. If the physician indicates that the applicant is not able to drive safely, driving privileges will be suspended or denied. Periodic follow-up medical evaluations may be required.

Who makes decisions about whether drivers are medically qualified?

Wisconsin’s medical review program is administered by licensing agency staff (including a registered nurse), who make licensing decisions based on the medical information provided and the physician’s recommendation.

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

Drivers with diabetes will not be licensed if there is evidence of any frequent or functionally impairing hypoglycemic reactions. Decisions in individual cases are based on the physician’s recommendation. If the physician indicates that the condition is not well controlled, not presently stable, or that the applicant is unreliable in following the treatment plan, the individual will not be licensed.

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

The state does not require a specific episode-free time period before licensing if episodes are caused by diabetes. Instead, the individual’s physician is asked whether the condition is stable and whether the individual is reliable in his or her treatment program.

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

An individual may submit new medical information, which will be reviewed by licensing agency staff. The individual may also request an in-person or paper review before the state’s independent medical advisory board. Three physicians from the board will conduct the review and make a recommendation. If the board’s decision is unfavorable, the individual can appeal to the circuit court for judicial review.

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 Wisconsin is administered by the Division of Motor Vehicles within the state Department of Transportation.