CDA Guidelines for Private Drivers
 | Drivers should measure their blood sugar immediately before (within 1 hour) getting behind the wheel of a car |
| During long drives, stops should be made to test blood sugars at least every 4 hours |
| Blood sugar testing equipment and a source of carbohydrate snack must be present in the car at all times |
| If blood sugar is < 4.0 mmol/L you should not drive. |
| After effective treatment of mild-moderate hypoglycemia (2.5 - 4.0 mmol/L) you should wait 45 - 60 minutes before resuming/starting to drive |
| If blood sugar is 4.0 - 5.0 mmol/L you should not begin or continue to drive without taking some prophylactic carbohydrate (orange juice, crackers, etc.) |
| If blood sugar is > or = to 5.0 mmol/L it is OK to drive |
| If you are experiencing a hypoglycemic reaction you should stop as soon as safely possible and treat yourself with carbohydrate |
| After a severe hypoglycemic reaction (Blood sugar < 2.5 mmol/L with loss of consciousness, seizure, requirement for glucagon injection or intravenous glucose) you should consult with your physician before resuming driving |
| Fitness of persons with diabetes to drive must be assessed on a case-by-case basis |
| Persons with diabetes should take an active role is assessing their ability to drive by maintaining accurate blood glucose log books and a well-calibrated blood glucose meter |
| Drivers should take an active role in obtaining current information concerning avoidance, recognition, and appropriate treatment of hypoglycemia. Their long term goal should be to maintain optimal glycemic control without developing hypoglycemic unawareness |
| Annual medical exams are required to assess the severity of retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease and their potential impacts on driving ability |
| Regular medical supervision (minimum of 2 clinic visits/year) is required by the doctor treating your diabetes |