The DVLA has announced a major change for some drivers who suffer from diabetes
Ben Test Hurst-BM and Ben Hurst
13:06, 07 Nov 2025
New changes will enable bus, coach and lorry drivers with diabetes to use Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems.(Image: DVLA)
The DVLA has today unveiled a significant change for certain drivers who have diabetes. From November 7, bus, coach and lorry drivers with diabetes will be permitted to monitor their glucose levels using modern technology such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems (CGMS), which utilise sensors to track glucose levels in real time.
This aligns Group 2 drivers (bus and lorry) with car and motorcycle drivers (Group 1), who have been able to use CGMS since 2018. Nikki Joule, Policy Manager at Diabetes UK, commented: “This welcome change will make a huge difference to the lives and livelihoods of professional drivers who manage their diabetes using insulin.
“Diabetes technology such as continuous glucose monitors can be transformative for people with diabetes, improving how the condition is managed and helping people live full lives. We have long been calling for these measures to be expanded since they were first introduced for car and motorcycle licence holders. Today’s announcement will support many bus and lorry drivers to safely manage their condition while working.”
Group 2 drivers:can now use CGMS for easier, real-time glucose monitoringmust still pull over safely if they need to confirm their readingsshould be aware that the change takes effect from 7 November
Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, stated: “This change is about making life easier for drivers with diabetes, while keeping our roads safe. By embracing modern technology, we’re helping thousands of professional drivers manage their condition more effectively and with greater confidence.”
Health experts and industry leaders have welcomed the change. Aaron Peters, RHA Head of Technical, Engineering and Policy, commented: “This is a welcome change for professional drivers living with diabetes which will help them monitor and manage their condition more easily and confidently. Diabetes awareness and monitoring have improved over the last few years so it’s right that measures to help people who are affected reflect this,” reports the Mirror.
The changes aim to provide drivers with:more flexibility in managing diabetesincreased safety through real-time monitoring
The DVLA stated: “This is a positive step forward for professional drivers living with diabetes – helping them stay safe, healthy, and confident behind the wheel.
“This update is supported by medical experts, road safety organisations, diabetes charities, and the road haulage industry. 89% of people who responded to DVLA’s targeted consultation backed the change.”
For further information on the new rules, visit: www.gov.uk/diabetes-driving.