You can drive if you have type 2 diabetes. But there are things you should do before you drive.
Managing insulin-treated diabetes and driving (PDF, 1MB, 12 pages)
Tell the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS)
You need to tell the NDLS if you have type 2 diabetes and you are taking insulin or medicines which may cause hypoglycaemia (hypo).
You do not need to tell the NDLS if your type 2 diabetes is managed by diet alone, or with medicine which does not put you at risk of a hypo.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are at risk of hypo.
Informing the NDLS about a medical condition - ndls.ie
Car insurance and type 2 diabetes
You must tell your car insurance company that you have type 2 diabetes. Most car insurance companies will not charge you more if you have diabetes.
If you think you are being discriminated against, speak to your insurance company.
Driving advice if taking insulin or diabetes medicines that put you at risk of hypo
It is very important you:
- prepare yourself for any journey
- make sure you are safe to drive
This is a legal obligation if you are at risk of hypo.
What to carry with you while driving
Always carry your glucose meter and blood glucose strips with you. Check your blood glucose before driving and every 2 hours while driving.
Always carry ID to show that you have diabetes in case of injury in a road traffic accident.
Measure your blood glucose
If your blood glucose is 5mmol/l or less, have a carbohydrate snack.
If it is less than 4mmol/l or you feel hypoglycaemic, do not drive. Take suitable action and then test yourself again to make sure your blood glucose is above 5.1mmol/l.
Stop driving if you feel hypo
If you develop hypoglycaemia while driving, stop your vehicle as soon as possible.
Wait 45 minutes
Switch off the engine, take the keys out of the ignition, and move from the driver’s seat.
Do not drive again until 45 minutes after your blood glucose level has returned to normal. It takes up to 45 minutes for the brain to recover fully.
Keep carbs in the car
Keep an emergency supply of fast-acting carbohydrates (for example, glucose tablets or sweets) within easy reach in your vehicle.
Take breaks and eat regularly
Always take regular meals, snacks and rest periods at least every 2 hours on long journeys.
Avoid drinking and driving
Always avoid alcohol.
