Which medical condition traditionally disqualified CMV drivers under FMCSA regulations?

Insulin-treated diabetes is a medical condition that has traditionally disqualified Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) drivers under FMCSA regulations due to the potential for complications that could impact a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Historically, the use of insulin to manage diabetes raised concerns about episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which could lead to sudden incapacitation while driving.

However, it's important to note that recent regulatory changes have allowed for more nuanced evaluations of drivers with insulin-treated diabetes. Under certain circumstances, drivers may be eligible for a medical exemption if they can demonstrate good blood sugar control and adhere to specific monitoring protocols.

Other medical conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and sleep apnea can be significant as well, but they do not carry the same outright disqualification label that insulin-treated diabetes has had historically. For example, drivers with hypertension can often be certified provided their condition is managed appropriately; the same may apply to sleep apnea, contingent on successful treatment.