16: Diabetes & Driving: Why You Need to Be 5 to Drive Artwork

The Glucose Never Lies® Podcast

Host John Pemberton — diabetes educator, researcher, and dad living with type 1 since 2008 — explores how to think clearly about type 1 diabetes in the real world.

Each episode translates current evidence and expert practice into decisions you can use: CGM accuracy and interpretation, getting more from pumps and automated insulin delivery, movement as a glucose tool, nutrition that protects performance and enjoyment, sleep, travel, parties, and sport.

Guests include leading clinicians, researchers, and people with lived experience. Expect respectful challenge, plain language, and practical take-aways.

Note: Educational only. No therapeutic relationship or personal medical advice.

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The Glucose Never Lies® Podcast

16: Diabetes & Driving: Why You Need to Be 5 to Drive

September 07, 2025 • John Pemberton • Episode 16

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Episode 16 — Diabetes & Driving: Why You Need to Be 5 to Drive

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Guest: Professor Pratik Choudhary (University of Leicester, Leicester Diabetes Centre; Chair, DVLA Medical Advisory Panel on Diabetes)

Host: John Pemberton (The Glucose Never Lies Podcast)

Episode Overview
Driving with type 1 diabetes is not just about safety. It comes with clear legal responsibilities.

We cover:
The legal differences between Group 1 (cars, motorcycles ≤3.5 t, ≤8 passengers) and Group 2 (HGV, minibuses, passenger vehicles >3.5 t or >8 passengers).
Why the law requires you to be ≥5 mmol/L before driving (“5 to drive”).
The 45-minute rule: after treating a hypo, you must wait 45 minutes once you are back above 5 mmol/L.
When CGM readings are accepted (Group 1) versus when only finger-prick testing counts (Group 2, currently).
The importance of self-declaring severe hypoglycaemia: two daytime events in 12 months means you must report it.
Practical tips: keeping your meter’s date/time accurate, carrying a backup meter, and setting CGM low alerts at 5 for long journeys.

Key Takeaways
5 to drive: ≥5.0 mmol/L
4.0–4.9 mmol/L: snack, then drive
<4.0 mmol/L: treat → confirm >5.0 → wait 45 minutes once above 5
Check every ≤2 hours — each check “expires” like a parking ticket
Group 1 drivers: CGM or finger-prick both accepted
Group 2 drivers: finger-prick only (until law changes)
Severe hypos: two daytime events in 12 months → you must self-declare
Responsibility lies with the driver

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This podcast is for education and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for individualised care.

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Collaboration: John Pemberton — john@theglucoseneverlies.com

Creatives: Anjanee Kohli — anj@theglucoseneverlies.com

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Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.