Patient information

Drive Safe with Diabetes

If you take insulin or pills that can lower blood sugar below 4 mmol/L, follow these steps to stay safe while driving.

Before you drive

Check your blood sugar
  • Do NOT start driving if it is below 4 mmol/L.
  • Treat low blood sugar first.
Prepare your car
  • Keep fast-acting sugar within reach (e.g. glucose tablets, juice).
  • Keep extra snacks nearby.
Plan for long trips
  • Check blood sugar every 4 hours.

If you feel unwell while driving

  • Stop driving immediately.
  • Treat low blood sugar.
  • Wait until blood sugar is above 5 mmol/L before driving again.
  • Your brain may need up to 40 minutes to recover after a low.

How to treat low blood sugar

  1. Eat 15 g of fast-acting sugar:
    1. 3–4 glucose tablets.
    2. 1 tbsp (15 mL) honey or sugar in water.
    3. 2/3 cup (150 mL) juice or regular soft drink.
    4. 6 Life Savers® or 2 rolls Rocket Candy.
  2. Wait 15 minutes, then check blood sugar. 
    If below 4 mmol/L, repeat step 1.
  3. Once above 4 mmol/L:  
    1. If next meal is >1 hour away, eat:  
      1. Starch: 7 crackers or 1 slice bread.
      2. Protein: cheese or 2 tbsp peanut butter.

Important

Tell your health-care provider if someone had to help you during a low.

Always keep your glucose meter and supplies in the car.