The change, which took effect on 7 November 2025, marks a long-awaited update for drivers who previously had to rely solely on finger-prick blood tests to prove their condition was under control.
“This change is about making life easier for drivers with diabetes, while keeping our roads safe,” said Tim Moss, Chief Executive of the DVLA. “By embracing modern technology, we’re helping thousands of professional drivers manage their condition more effectively and with greater confidence.”
A long-awaited step for Group 2 drivers
Until now, only car and motorcycle licence holders, known as Group 1 drivers, were permitted to use continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), following an earlier rule change in 2018. Group 2 drivers, who operate large vehicles such as lorries and buses, had to check their glucose levels manually before and during every shift.
Under the new rules, they can use approved CGM devices to monitor their levels continuously, receiving live readings and alerts through their monitor or smartphone. This modern approach aligns the professional driver category with current medical practice and reduces the burden of frequent testing.
The update was widely supported by health experts and industry representatives. According to Diabetes UK, the change “will make a huge difference to the lives and livelihoods of professional drivers who manage their diabetes using insulin”.
“Technology such as continuous glucose monitors can be transformative,” said Nikki Joule, the charity’s policy manager. “We have long called for these measures to be expanded to include professional drivers.”
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) also welcomed the move, saying it “reflects improvements in diabetes awareness and monitoring” and will help drivers “manage their condition more easily and confidently”.
What the change means in practice
According to the DVLA’s latest guidance, Group 2 drivers using insulin must still meet strict safety conditions to keep their licence. They must have been stable on insulin for at least a month, undergo a medical review by an independent diabetes specialist every year, and provide at least four weeks of continuous glucose readings for assessment.
Drivers can now legally use CGMs or finger-prick tests — or both — to monitor their sugar levels. They must check before starting work and at least every two hours while driving, ensuring that no more than two hours pass between tests.
The DVLA emphasises that drivers should never test while the vehicle is moving and must pull over safely before checking their device. CGMs are only accepted if they are medically approved for treatment decisions (non-adjunctive type), and drivers are advised to keep a traditional glucose meter as a backup.
As before, drivers must not drive if their blood sugar is below 4 mmol/L or if they have symptoms of low blood glucose such as shakiness, sweating, or confusion. Anyone who experiences a “hypo” while driving is required to stop immediately, treat the episode, and wait at least 45 minutes after recovery before getting back on the road.
When drivers need to notify the DVLA
While the updated rules make glucose monitoring easier, the legal responsibilities remain unchanged. Drivers must still inform the DVLA if they start insulin treatment, switch to certain medications (such as sulphonylurea or glinide tablets), or develop vision or circulation problems that might affect safe driving.
Failing to report a relevant medical condition can result in a fine of up to £1,000, and drivers could be prosecuted if an accident occurs as a result.
Those whose diabetes is treated by diet alone do not need to inform the DVLA, as long as they are free of complications affecting their eyesight, feet, or circulation.
A practical, safety-focused update
The DVLA says the change is supported by the medical community, road safety organisations and the haulage industry. In a targeted consultation earlier this year, nearly nine in ten respondents backed the proposal to extend CGM use to professional drivers.
For many, the new rule represents more than just a technical update — it’s a sign that regulation is catching up with modern healthcare. For drivers who spend long hours on the road, often far from home or medical support, continuous monitoring offers peace of mind and an added layer of safety.
As the RHA’s Aaron Peters summed it up:
“This is a welcome change for professional drivers living with diabetes, which will help them monitor and manage their condition more easily and confidently.”
