News & Research

The Diabetes Exemption Program was a big step forward, but it contained a provision that required individuals to have 3 years of commercial driving experience while using insulin in order to even be eligible for an exemption.

This proved to be a big Catch 22 since it was impossible to gain this driving experience in many states, and nearly impossible in others. 

This "3-year rule" was not necessary to ensure safety, since the program contained over 50 other medical and safety provisions. Further, it was opposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's own Expert Medical Panel. 

Out of the hundreds of individuals who applied for an exemption, only four received one due to the difficulty of meeting the 3-year requirement. 

The Fight Continues

Thus, the Association has continued the fight to obtain an effective system of individual assessment, turning back to Capitol Hill for help.

• Federal Register Notice Announcing the Diabetes Exemption Program, (PDF) Federal Register vol. 68, page 52331, Sept. 3, 2003
• Diabetes Exemption Program Application - visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Web site to download an application for a commercial driver's license exemption
• Chart of Safety & Medical Screenings, Operating Guidelines, and Monitoring & Accountability Provisions of the Diabetes Exemption Program (PDF) (updated October 2007)
• 1,521 exemptions have been granted to date (as of 11/16/2010)