Good news for drivers with diabetes

22nd December 2011- The charity Diabetes UK had been concerned that people with diabetes could have their driving licences taken away unfairly because of a new European rule.

Under the directive, people with diabetes who report two ‘severe’ hypoglycaemic episodes (hypos) in a 12-month period may have their Group 1 licence revoked.

Group 1 is just an ordinary driving licence.

Definition of "severe"

Diabetes UK was worried that the word ‘severe’ could be misunderstood as many hypos can be quickly and easily treated by the person themselves with an appropriate snack.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has now agreed to work with the charity and people with diabetes on re-writing driving licence application forms.

After a meeting with Transport Minister, Mike Penning, a working group was set up to review the impact of the new rules.

Diabetes UK has provided guidance on how to improve the information given to people with diabetes and healthcare professionals about the driving licence application and renewal process.

The DVLA has agreed to re-write the forms to clarify how severe a hypo has to be before it needs to be declared, and set out a timetable for re-drafting the guidance by the end of January 2012.

Consistent, transparent and safe

The DVLA also agreed to share monthly reports about how many people with diabetes are having their licences revoked.

Nikki Joule, Senior Policy Officer at Diabetes UK said: "We are pleased to have the attention of the Transport Minister and the DVLA over concerns about new rules affecting drivers with diabetes.

"Now that we have raised our concerns at the highest level we are delighted that changes will be made to the forms to ensure the process for drivers with diabetes who are applying and re-applying for licences is fair, consistent, transparent and safe."

Only refuse if absolutely necessary

A DVLA Spokesperson said: "We must apply European medical standards but we consider every case individually and only refuse licences where absolutely necessary.

"We regularly review our forms to make sure they are as clear as possible and are pleased to be working with Diabetes UK to ensure all our information on this important subject is well understood."

More than 3.5 million people in the UK have diabetes.