California DMV Suspension for Diabetes – It Happens Why is the DMV concerned about drivers with Diabetes? The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is an enormously powerful government entity, empowered by the California Legislature to ensure that all persons operating motor vehicles maintain the physical and mental capacity to do so.
If the DMV learns from any source that a particular driver may have developed any condition that could impair their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, the department will either refuse to issue that person a driver license, or may suspend/revoke an existing driver license. A recent study revealed that as many a 19 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes.
As America becomes heavier and heavier, it is estimated that the instance of diabetes will increase exponentially. Today it is believed that 13.9% of high school kids are obese and an additional 16.0% are overweight. Even though diabetes can be genetically passed among family members, there is significant evidence to suggest that poor diet and a lack of exercise are large factors in this growing problem.
- Because a driver diagnosed with diabetes mellitus may suffer with a variety of medical or physical issues that affect their ability to drive, the California DMV has developed a policy of aggressive oversight to ensure that the public roadways remain as safe as possible.
- A driver diagnosed with diabetes is subject to episodes of Hypoglycemia or Hyperglycemia, which may cause them to experience altered perception or even a lapse of consciousness.
If this were to occur while driving, the results could be devastating. Additionally, a driver diagnosed with diabetes may develop vision problems, such as retinopathy or cataracts. Such a driver may also experience problems with neuropathy that could affect their ability to feel a vehicle’s control pedals.
Law Enforcement Officer: The DMV will often receive information from a law enforcement officer who has come into contact with a diabetic driver at the scene of a traffic accident or other enforcement scenario.
Physicians: California Law actually mandates that a physician report any physical or mental issue to the DMV if it could affect that person’s ability to drive. Most often, doctors will report a driver to the DMV when they learn he/she has suffered an episode of hyperglycemia, hyperglycemia or any lapse of consciousness or control.
Family members: It is not unusual for a family member to report a diabetic driver to the DMV because of their concern that their loved one’s diabetes makes them unsafe to drive.
Driver Self Reporting: That’s right. it often occurs that a driver will bring themselves under scrutiny of the DMV. This most often occurs when a person who is apply for an original driver license, or a driver who is seeking to renew their license, checks a block on an application form that alerts the DMV to a diagnosis of diabetes.
Anonymous Sources: At times, the DMV will receive a “tip” from an anonymous source that a driver suffers with diabetes and may not be safe to drive. Even though the source of the information may not be known; and even though the validity of the information may be questionable, the DMV is still mandated to investigate.
How does the DMV evaluate a driver with Diabetes? Remember, it is the DMV’s stated goal to ensure the driving safety of all drivers on California’s roadways. If the DMV receives information that a diabetic driver may not be able to drive safely, the department will either order the driver in for a “re-examination” interview or they may advance directly to an “immediate” Order of Suspension,
Normally an immediate order of suspension occurs following a traffic accident or some other event that suggests there is an immediate need to protect the public. Re-Examination Interview If the DMV receives information from any source that a person suffers with diabetes that may affect safe driving, the department will send the driver a “Notice of Re-Examination” Appointment.
Contained within the same envelope will be a Driver Medical Evaluation (DME) to be prepared and signed by the person’s physician.
When the Re-Examination Interview occurs, the assigned hearing officer will review all relevant evidence and will interview the affected driver. At the end of the re-examination interview, the hearing officer may:-Terminate any further action.-Place the person on medical probation.-Suspend or revoke the driver license.If a re-examination interview results in a suspension/revocation of the driver license, the affected driver is then entitled to conduct a full-blown evidentiary hearing to reverse the decision.
Immediate Suspension: If the DMV receives information from any source which suggests that a diabetic driver poses an immediate hazard to the safety of the public, it will issue an immediate “Order of Suspension.” This normally occurs when a driver has suffered a Lapse of Consciousness during an event of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
- If a driver receives an immediate “Order of Suspension/Revocation” in the mail, the re-examination interview is bypassed and the driver becomes immediately available for a hearing.
- Nown as a Physical and Mental Hearing, this is a full-blown evidentiary hearing where evidence is presented, witnesses may testify, experts may offer opinions, and legal arguments are heard.
This is a complex legal process that should be conducted by professionals in the field. If the DMV has suspended my driver license for Diabetes, what can I do? Whether your case requires a “Re-Examination” Interview or a Physical and Mental Hearing; information is the key to success.
Call the DMV Defense Experts at California Drivers Advocates (CDA). We have been conducting every type of administrative hearing before the DMV for many years. We know what they do and we know how to fight back. If your case requires a Re-Examination Interview, we’ll simply tell you how to prepare and what to do.
If your case requires a full Physical and Mental Hearing, we’ll be ready to jump into your case. California Drivers Advocates is your solution. We Are Here To Defend Your Driving Privilege. : California DMV Suspension for Diabetes – It Happens
Can diabetes stop you from driving?
Type 1 diabetes – Check you’re safe to drive Legally, if you have type 1 diabetes and you drive, you need to:
check your blood glucose no longer than 2 hours before drivingcheck your blood every 2 hours if you’re on a long journeytravel with sugary snacks and snacks with long-lasting carbs, like a cereal bar or banana
If you feel your levels are low:
stop the car when it’s saferemove the keys from the ignitionget out of the driver’s seatcheck your blood glucose and treat your hypodo not drive for 45 minutes after you start to feel better
Page last reviewed: 15 July 2021 Next review due: 15 July 2024 : Type 1 diabetes – Check you’re safe to drive
Can diabetics drive in USA?
The federal government has no diabetes-specific restrictions for individuals who manage their disease with diet, exercise, and/or oral medication. It offers an exemption program for insulin-using interstate commercial drivers and issues medical certificates to qualified drivers.
Do you have to declare diabetes?
Check whether you need to tell DVLA that you have diabetes – If you’re keeping your diabetes under control with diet only, then you do not need to tell DVLA. However, if you’re taking medication to control your diabetes, the following applies:
if your diabetes is treated by insulin, you must tell DVLA if your diabetes is treated by tablets and you’re a bus or lorry licence holder (Group 2), you must tell DVLA if your diabetes is treated by tablets and you’re a car or motorcycle licence holder (Group 1), some tablets may cause hypoglycaemia so you need to ask your GP or healthcare professional about your medication
So to summarise, it’s a legal requirement to tell DVLA if you have a medical condition that could affect your driving. Of course, telling us does not necessarily mean you’ll lose your licence. In fact, in the last 2 years, 9 out of 10 car and motorcycle driving licence holders who told us they had diabetes kept their driving licence.
Can high blood sugar affect your driving?
Your provider can determine when and how your high levels can affect your ability to drive safely. Very high blood sugar can prevent you from thinking clearly and making sound judgments. Hyperglycemia can cause a seizure. Diabetes also can cause eye problems.
Can you drive if you take insulin for diabetes?
Diabetes treated with lifestyle – If you treat your diabetes with lifestyle and are not prescribed diabetes medications, then you do not need to inform the DVLA unless one of the following apply:
You have a complication of diabetes or another condition that affects your ability to drive
If you do not need to inform the DVLA, remember that your motor insurance company will need to be informed for your insurance to be valid. Transcript People with diabetes are fine to drive as long as certain medical requirements are met. Depending on your medication regimen, you may have more or less relaxed conditions under which you can drive.
You are taking insulin You are applying for a license and are on tablets You have lost awareness of hypoglycemia You have difficulty with your vision that could affect your driving You have complications that could affect your driving
If you’re on insulin, you will be put onto a 1, 2 or 3 year license which will need to be renewed before its expiry. You need only inform your insurance provider if your license changes to a different form of restricted license. If on you’re on insulin or other medication that can cause hypoglycemia, it’s important that you test blood glucose levels before driving.
- Do not drive unless your levels are above 5 mmol/l.
- Also be aware of any active short term insulin that might be in your body still.
- If you’re on a long journey, it’s important to stop at least every couple of hours to re-check your sugar levels.
- If you are at risk of hypos, it’s very important that you have full awareness of when hypos are happening.
If you’re in doubt about whether you may be low whilst driving, find a place to stop and test your blood sugar levels. People with diabetes can drive HGVs. People on insulin will be issued a 1 year license which will need to be renewed each year. People on tablets that can cause hypos will be issued a 1, 2 or 3 year license which will need to be renewed at the appropriate time.
Do I need to inform the DVLA of diabetes?
Car or motorbike licence – You need to tell DVLA if:
your insulin treatment lasts (or will last) over 3 months you had gestational diabetes (diabetes associated with pregnancy) and your insulin treatment lasts over 3 months after the birth you get disabling hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) – or a medical professional has told you that you’re at risk of developing it
Report your condition online You can also fill in form DIAB1 and send it to DVLA, The address is on the form. Read leaflet INF294 for more information about driving a car or motorbike with diabetes that’s treated with insulin.
What is the legal blood sugar level to drive?
Your driving checklist if you’re at risk of hypos – Follow this diabetes driving hypo checklist each and every time you drive. It’s how you reduce your risk of a hypo at the wheel. And it’s how you can carry on driving safely.
- Know the symptoms of a hypo – if you’ve lost hypo awareness, you can’t drive.
- Keep spare test strips in the car and bring your meter with you.
- Check your blood sugar levels before you set off and every two hours on long journeys.
- Five to drive – your blood sugars have to be 5mmol/l or above before you drive. If they’re between 4mmol/l and 5mmol/l, eat some carbs before heading out.
- If they’re under 4mmol/l – treat your hypo and check your levels again before driving.
- Always keep hypo treatments where you can easily reach them in the car.
- Take breaks on long journeys.
- Don’t delay meals or snacks.
Remember, the rules are more complicated around diabetes and truck driving or if you want to drive a large vehicle, with a Group 2 licence,
Can you be in the police with diabetes?
Can I join? In most cases this will be possible provided your diabetes is well managed, blood sugar control is satisfactory and most importantly, you are not prone to hypoglycaemic episodes requiring assistance from a third party. Restrictions to driving may be required. This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
What benefits are diabetics entitled to in the USA?
Symptoms – The presence of Diabetes is generally indicated by some combination of several symptoms. A diabetic will often experience unexplained:
- frequent need to urinate, especially if it is combined with extreme thirst,
- chronic hunger, especially between meals,
- fatigue,
- weight loss, and/or
- general feelings of irritability
Many diabetics report dry, itchy skin and trouble with genital itching and fungal infections. A tingling sensation or numbness in the feet is another indication, as is blurred vision. Finally, the skin of many diabetics is slow to heal from wounds, skin abrasions, or sores. Diagnosis of Diabetes can be established through three types of blood tests. They are:
- A fasting plasma glucose test, which is given after an 8-hour fast;
- An oral glucose tolerance test, which is given after an 8-hour fast followed by the administration of a glucose-containing beverage and an additional 2 hour wait; or
- A random plasma glucose test, which measures blood glucose without any kind of fast.
The random plasma glucose test cannot be used to test for pre-Diabetes. If the test results indicate the presence of a Diabetic condition, the patient must undergo additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Is diabetes always a disability?
Webinars – The American Diabetes Association has presented two free webinars on the changes made by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008. The first webinar, in February 2009, focused on the statute itself, while the second, in April 2011, focused on the new regulations implementing the statutory changes. Both webinars are available for viewing at the links below.
The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act Regulations: Expert Analysis with a Focus on Workers with Diabetes (April 2011) Building on Our Victories: Diabetes and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (April 2009)
Demonstrating Coverage under the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 for People with Diabetes (PDF) (updated January 2014) This article explains how to prove that a person with diabetes qualifies as a person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act using the new legal standards included in the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 and the EEOC regulations adopted in 2011 to implement that law.
- It contains both a detailed discussion of the science of diabetes and its management, and an explanation of how to use this science to demonstrate coverage under the ADA.
- Background Materials on Diabetes and Functional Limitations for Lawyers Handling Diabetes Discrimination Cases (PDF) (Shereen Arent, JD, and Brian Dimmick, JD) (December 2008) This article explains how to prove that a person with diabetes qualifies as a person with a disability under disability discrimination laws, particularly the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to its amendment in 2008.
It begins with a discussion of the science of diabetes and then discusses how diabetes and its management can substantially limit specific major life activities. Proving Diabetes is a Disability (PDF) (Brian East, JD – Advocacy, inc.) (April 2007) This article provides a detailed survey of which individuals are covered by federal disability discrimination laws, particularly the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to its amendment in 2008.
It discusses leading decisions dealing with a wide range of disabilities, and also highlights key diabetes cases.A version of this paper was presented at the Fourteenth Annual Convention of the National Employment Lawyers Association in June 2003. Both “Too Sick and Not Sick Enough”: Building on ADA Decisions Involving Plaintiffs with Diabetes (PDF) (Daniel B.
Kohrman, JD, AARP Foundation Litigation) (June 2007) This article discusses, with extensive examples from relevant case law, the Catch-22 that can be fatal to disability discrimination plaintiffs with diabetes under the law as it existed prior to the ADA Amendments Act of 2008: being too sick to be a qualified employee, but not sick enough to qualify for protection from disability discrimination under the law.
How often do diabetics renew driving Licence?
Car and motorcycle drivers on insulin – If you treat your diabetes with insulin, you must by law inform the DVLA. You will need to obtain or download a form called ‘DIAB1′ which will ask for more information about your diabetes. This will include asking about the name and address of your General Practitioner or consultant.
They will also ask for your permission to approach these people directly, if necessary, to obtain information on your fitness to drive. This does not mean, however, that you will be refused a licence. Watch the video below to see how to complete the DIAB1 form. If your diabetes is treated with insulin, a driving licence will be issued for one, two or three years, and will you allow you to drive a vehicle up to 3.5 tonnes.
When this licence expires you will receive a reminder to renew the licence and you may also be sent another Diabetic 1 form to complete with more up-to-date information. Renewals are free of charge. If your diabetes is treated with tablets, you are not always sent the Diabetic 1 form.
When should diabetics not drive?
Tips for Safe Driving with Diabetes – 
Follow the Boy Scout motto and “Be Prepared.” Keep the following in your car at all times and within arm’s reach: cell phone, blood glucose meter, snacks and fast-acting sugars like glucose tablets. Be sure to carry your blood sugar meter and testing supplies with you when driving, but don’t store them in your vehicle because they can be damaged by low and high temperatures.
Check your blood glucose level before getting behind the wheel. Do not drive if it is below 70 mg/dl. Pull over as soon as you feel any signs of low blood glucose and check your level. If it’s low, eat a snack and/or consume a fast-acting sugar. Wait 15 minutes and check your level again. Once your blood glucose level has risen to your target range, eat a more substantial snack or meal containing protein. Do not continue driving until your blood glucose is above 70 mg/dl for at least 45 minutes. Stop to check your blood glucose at least every two hours (or as often as directed by your health care provider). Schedule an annual eye exam to ensure your vision is safe for driving.
If you are experiencing long-term complications of diabetes such as or nerve damage, or if you have had an amputation, your diabetes health care team can refer you to a driving specialist. Always wear a medical I.D. bracelet or necklace that says you have diabetes, in case of emergency. Small Steps: Don’t Skip Appointments Meet with your health care team regularly to make sure you’re on track with your diabetes treatment plan. : Diabetes and Driving: What You Should Know
Do diabetics get angry when their sugar is high?
Isa Kay, MPH ’18 – October 21, 2019 Many people may be suffering from symptoms of common mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, without realizing that variable blood sugar could be the culprit. A growing body of evidence suggests a relationship between mood and blood-sugar, or glycemic, highs and lows.
Symptoms of poor glycemic regulation have been shown to closely mirror mental health symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety, and worry. This should come as no surprise, as the brain runs primarily on glucose. Depression currently affects about 25% of individuals with diabetes, a population more susceptible to pronounced blood sugar highs and lows.1 The diabetic population provides valuable insight on the effects of blood sugar variability on both ends of the spectrum.
Although more studies are warranted to solidify the relationship between mood and blood sugar, considering dietary and lifestyle implications on common mood disorders can rule out lesser known causes. One study found that inconsistent blood sugar levels among women with diabetes were associated with lower quality of life and negative moods.2 Among diabetic, higher blood glucose, or hyperglycemia, has historically been associated with anger or sadness, while blood sugar dips, or hypoglycemia, has been associated with nervousness.3 Persons with diabetes are not the only ones vulnerable to mood disturbances as a result of blood sugar fluctuations.
Otherwise healthy individuals consuming a diet high in refined carbohydrates and added sugars may experience a sudden surge in their blood sugar, followed by an exaggerated insulin response, leading to acute hypoglycemia.4 A 2017 prospective study found positive associations between high sugar consumption and common mental disorders, concluding that sugar intake from sweet foods and beverages has an adverse effect on long-term psychological health.5 Individuals with recurrent mental health symptoms may choose to rule out alternative causes before jumping into mental health treatment or interventions.
Several lifestyle principles can help stabilize blood sugar:
- Reduce and manage stress, Stress has been shown to negatively affect the regulation of blood glucose. Specifically, hormonal changes during acute and chronic stress can affect glucose balance.6
- Increase intake of protein and fiber, Protein has a low glycemic index (GI), which means they have a low impact on blood sugar levels. Fibrous foods are also shown to have a lower GI value when compared to their refined counterparts.7
- Reduce intake of sweet beverages and refined carbohydrates, A diet high in refined carbohydrates, including sweet beverages, has a high GI value and is associated with unstable blood sugar regulation.4,7
Although more studies are warranted to solidify the relationship between mood and blood sugar, considering dietary and lifestyle implications on common mood disorders can rule out lesser known causes.
Does type 2 diabetes affect your driving?
Many complications of diabetes can potentially impair driving performance, including those affecting vision, cognition and peripheral neural function. Hypoglycemia is a common side-effect of insulin and sulfonylurea therapy, impairing many cognitive domains necessary for safe driving performance.
Can I drive while taking metformin?
Common questions about metformin If your blood sugar levels are stable, taking metformin should not affect your ability to drive, cycle or use machinery and tools. Metformin itself will not make your blood sugar levels too low, but your doctor might prescribe it alongside other medicines for diabetes that can affect your blood sugar.
If your blood sugar levels become too low, this can reduce your concentration. If this happens to you, do not drive, cycle or use machines or tools until you feel better. It’s an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It’s your responsibility to decide if it’s safe to drive.
If you’re in any doubt, do not drive. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure whether it’s safe for you to drive while taking metformin. : Common questions about metformin
Does diabetes affect driving insurance?
Having Diabetes and Car Insurance Having diabetes can mean that your insurance premiums are higher, but shop around and you could help to offset the extras charged by the insurance companies. Diabetes in itself cannot have a bearing on your car insurance policy, however, if your treatment, such as, requires you to have a, then it can affect your premium.
How long does it take to get driving Licence back after medical?
How long will medical enquiries take – The DVA aim to complete their enquiries as quickly as possible. The time they take to deal with your particular case will depend on the medical condition you have and the information they need to gather. If the DVA can make a decision based on the information you originally provided, they aim to make this decision within three to four weeks.
What happens if I don’t report a medical condition to DVLA?
How to tell DVLA – Check if you need to tell DVLA about your condition to find the forms or questionnaires you need. The address you need is on the forms. If you’re in Northern Ireland you must contact the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA), There are different forms for different conditions and disabilities.
Can DVLA see your medical records?
My medical history – During the standard DVLA check-up, your doctor might not have access to your full medical history. So, it’s up to you to be honest and upfront about anything in your past which might affect your ability to do your job properly. Once your check-up is complete, you need to give a declaration of consent.
Do doctors notify DVLA of medical condition?
Fitness to drive: doctors’ and patients’ responsibilities – 3 The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in England, Scotland and Wales and the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland are legally responsible for deciding if a person is medically unfit to drive.
- This means they need to know if a person holding a driving licence has a condition or is undergoing treatment that may now, or in the future, affect their safety as a driver.4 The driver is legally responsible for telling the DVLA or DVA about any such condition or treatment.
- Doctors should therefore alert patients to conditions and treatments that might affect their ability to drive and remind them of their duty to tell the appropriate agency.
Doctors may, however, need to make a decision about whether to disclose relevant information without consent to the DVLA or DVA in the public interest if a patient is unfit to drive but continues to do so.
Can type 2 diabetes affect your driving?
Driving and eye complications – Retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels supplying the eye’s retina (the seeing part at the back of the eye) and it can cause sight loss. It’s linked to high blood sugars and high blood pressure so it’s more common in people with diabetes.
If you start having problems with your eyes, you need to let the DVLA know and you may need a special diabetes eye test for driving. It’ll be done at an optician near you that’s recommended by the DVLA and they’ll pay for it. Some eye problems can be treated successfully which means you can reapply for your licence.
Ask your healthcare team if you’re not sure.
When should a diabetic not drive?
Tips for Safe Driving with Diabetes – Follow the Boy Scout motto and “Be Prepared.” Keep the following in your car at all times and within arm’s reach: cell phone, blood glucose meter, snacks and fast-acting sugars like glucose tablets. Be sure to carry your blood sugar meter and testing supplies with you when driving, but don’t store them in your vehicle because they can be damaged by low and high temperatures.
Check your blood glucose level before getting behind the wheel. Do not drive if it is below 70 mg/dl. Pull over as soon as you feel any signs of low blood glucose and check your level. If it’s low, eat a snack and/or consume a fast-acting sugar. Wait 15 minutes and check your level again. Once your blood glucose level has risen to your target range, eat a more substantial snack or meal containing protein. Do not continue driving until your blood glucose is above 70 mg/dl for at least 45 minutes. Stop to check your blood glucose at least every two hours (or as often as directed by your health care provider). Schedule an annual eye exam to ensure your vision is safe for driving.
If you are experiencing long-term complications of diabetes such as or nerve damage, or if you have had an amputation, your diabetes health care team can refer you to a driving specialist. Always wear a medical I.D. bracelet or necklace that says you have diabetes, in case of emergency. Small Steps: Don’t Skip Appointments Meet with your health care team regularly to make sure you’re on track with your diabetes treatment plan. : Diabetes and Driving: What You Should Know
Does diabetes affect driving insurance?
Having Diabetes and Car Insurance Having diabetes can mean that your insurance premiums are higher, but shop around and you could help to offset the extras charged by the insurance companies. Diabetes in itself cannot have a bearing on your car insurance policy, however, if your treatment, such as, requires you to have a, then it can affect your premium.