Commercial Driving and Insulin for Diabetes Control

Byadmin

In 2012, 29.1 million Americans, or 9.3% of the population, had diabetes. 30.8% of these diabetic Americans used insulin or a combination of insulin and pills to control their blood glucose levels. 

An interstate commercial driver who utilizes injection insulin should be aware of federal laws regarding the diabetes exemption program. 

The following are steps required to apply to the FMCSA Diabetes Examption Program:

1. Download the FMCSA Diabetes Exemption Program Forms

2. Obtain a physical exam from an FMCSA Certified Medical Examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

  • Bring a copy of the Exemption Program Forms available above to the appointment
  • Bring a copy of the drivers 5 year medical history to the examination (Obtained from primary care provider).

3. Obtain an exam by a physician who is a board-certified or board-eligible endocinologist.

  • Bring the Endocrinologist Evaluation Checklist from the program forms above.
  • Bring glucose logs to the appointment.
  • The applicant must submit the endocrinologist’s signed letterhead, a completed checklist, and any additional reports outlined in the checklist to the exemption program.

4.  The applicant must have a vision examination by an opthalmologist or optometrist. An applicant diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy must be evaluated by an opthalmologist. 

  • Bring the Vision Evaluation Checklist (included in packet) to the appointment. The opthalmologist or optometrist must complete all parts of the checklist. 
  • The applicant must submit the optometrist/opthalmologist’s signed letterhead and a completed checklist to the exemption program.

5.  Complete the Additional Applicant Information section of the exemption program forms. Include a photocopy of both sides of the driver’s license, and a current motor vehicle record. Submit the forms to the address indicated in the packet.