New guidelines will make blood testing requirements simpler for people with diabetes when they are driving.

Last month we reported that the DVLA was set to approve the use of flash and continuous glucose monitoring devices, including the FreeStyle Libre, for people with diabetes testing their blood glucose prior to driving or during breaks.

This week, the DVLA confirmed the approval, meaning drivers with diabetes will no longer be required to test their blood through finger pricking when driving and will be able to use flash or continuous glucose monitoring instead. However, people with diabetes can still choose to use this method if that is their preference.

The changes were made following a series of discussions among a leading panel of experts who worked together to provide the safest possible advice for everyone on the road.

Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive, said: “We want to make it as safe and as easy as possible for drivers to get on the road.

“Our panel of medical experts who help set the medical standards for driving are always looking at how we can use advancing technologies, and we’re pleased to be able to offer drivers another way of how they monitor their glucose levels.”

If drivers choose to use flash or CGM devices, the regulations state they must then use a finger prick test if their glucose levels are 4.0 mmol/L or below; they experience symptoms of hypoglycemia; or the glucose monitoring system gives a reading that is not consistent with the symptoms they are experiencing.

The current regulations regarding finger-prick blood glucose testing remain the same for bus and lorry drivers.

It still remains essential that those who rely on insulin to treat their diabetes must tell the DVLA.

To check the regulations in full, visit the Government website.