From today (7 November 2025), bus, coach and lorry drivers with
diabetes will be able to monitor their glucose (sugar) levels
using modern technology, such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Systems (CGMS), which use sensors to track glucose levels in real
time.
What's changing
Until now, professional drivers with diabetes had to rely on
finger-prick tests to monitor their glucose levels before and
during driving. The new rule means they can now use technology
like CGMS, which provides real-time glucose readings.
This brings Group 2 drivers (bus and lorry) in line with car and
motorcycle drivers (Group 1), who have been allowed to use CGMS
since 2018.
What Group 2 drivers need to know
Group 2 drivers:
- can now use CGMS for easier, real-time glucose monitoring
- must still pull over safely if they need to confirm their
readings
- should be aware that the change takes effect from 7 November
Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, said:
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.
The change has also been welcomed by health experts and industry
leaders.
Nikki Joule, Policy Manager at Diabetes UK, said:
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.
Aaron Peters, RHA Head of Technical, Engineering and Policy,
said:
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.
What it means for drivers
The changes aim to provide drivers with:
- more flexibility in managing diabetes
- increased safety through real-time monitoring
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.
Read the guidance on the new rules at: www.gov.uk/diabetes-driving
