Recently, a subscriber asked the following question:
Are there any rules or laws about driving while using insulin for Type I diabetes?
This was our answer:
I assume you are inquiring about regulations that apply to commercial drivers surrounding the use of insulin for Type I diabetes rather than about rules that apply to the general population.
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Drivers of commercial motor vehicles engaged in interstate commerce must follow the federal motor carrier safety regulations (FMCSRs). Most states have adopted many parts of the FMCSRs in their regulations for intrastate commerce, including the regulations for driver medical fitness, which include considerations for diabetes and other medical conditions that could cause impairment behind the wheel.
For the purpose of the FMCSRs, a commercial motor vehicle is defined as:
- A vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 4,537 kg (10,001 lb) or more, whichever is greater;
- A vehicle designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver) for compensation;
- A vehicle designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers; or
- Any size vehicle used in the transportation of materials found to be hazardous for the purposes of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and which require the motor vehicle to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR chapter I, subchapter C).
The regulations at 49 CFR 391.41 specify physical qualifications for drivers. Under this standard, a person who has a medical history or clinical diagnosis of diabetes that requires insulin for control is not normally physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle. However, drivers who use insulin to control their diabetes can apply for an exemption to this provision under the FMCSA’s Federal Diabetes Exemption Program. The exemption application requires a medical examination by a certified medical examiner, an evaluation by an endocrinologist, and a vision evaluation.
Exemptions can be granted for a maximum of 2 years, and quarterly and annual medical monitoring and reporting are required to maintain the exemption. Drivers must reapply for renewal of their exemption every 2 years.