Diabetes: Driving Issues

Managing diabetes means making a routine for things like meals, exercise, and medicine. It also means making changes in some of your activities, such as driving. These changes will help keep you and those around you safe.

Be prepared when driving

Wear a medical ID that says you have diabetes.

These tips may help:

• Keep diabetes supplies, such as your blood glucose meter, with you in the car. Have them within easy reach. Don't put them in the backseat or trunk. Also keep snacks and fast-acting sugars, such as glucose tablets, within reach in the car. If you have had low sugar (hypoglycemic) reactions, ask your provider about using a CGM (continuous glucose monitor). A CGM can show you your blood sugar before you drive. And even during your drive. This can help prevent any hypoglycemic reactions.

• Wear an ID bracelet or necklace that says you have diabetes. This will help in an emergency. Also carry your cell phone with you when driving in case you need to call for help. 

Driving safety

Many things, including medicine, may cause your blood sugar to go too low at times. This is called hypoglycemia. Driving when your blood sugar is low can be as dangerous as driving while drunk. To drive safely:

• Check your blood sugar before you start. Don't drive if it is below your target range.

• Stop to check your blood sugar at least every 2 hours or as often as advised by your healthcare provider.

• Pull over and stop if you feel symptoms of low blood sugar while driving. Check your blood sugar right away:

  • If your blood sugar is low, eat or drink 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting sugar. That's 3 to 4 glucose tablets or 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of fruit juice or nondiet soda. Wait 15 minutes. Then test to see if your blood sugar is still low. If it is, eat or drink 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting sugar. Test again in 15 minutes. Repeat this process until your blood sugar is normal.

  • Once your blood sugar is normal, eat a bigger snack or meal with protein (if possible). Don't drive until your blood sugar is at a safe level.

  • If your blood sugar does not go back up, call your provider or 911 to get help right away. You may need an injection of glucagon to raise your blood sugar.

• Have your eyes tested at least once a year to be sure your vision is still adequate for driving. 

• Ask for a ride from a family member or service group if diabetes or other health issues have made it hard or unsafe for you to drive.

• Professional drivers need to keep up on changes in regulations about driving with diabetes.