Taxi driver retains licence despite medical compliance failures and diabetes management concerns
- Perry Richardson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 hours ago
A taxi driver in Bath has been granted a licence renewal despite failing to meet Group 2 medical standards required for public transport drivers earlier this year. The decision was made following a Bath & North East Somerset Licensing Sub-Committee hearing on 3 April 2025.
The driver, who has held a combined Hackney Carriage/Private Hire licence since 2009, has Type 2 Diabetes and takes medication that carries a risk of hypoglycaemia. As part of the licensing requirements, such drivers must monitor their blood glucose levels regularly and in relation to driving times.
During the hearing, the panel was told that a medical form submitted in January 2025 revealed two key issues: the driver’s vision test failed to meet the required standard, and blood sugar checks were not being carried out at times relevant to driving. A revised medical form was later submitted showing improvements, including a passed vision test and confirmation of compliance from a diabetic nurse.
However, the driver admitted to only testing their blood glucose levels twice per week and said they were not consistently testing before driving. When questioned, the driver also confirmed they had previously agreed to comply with testing requirements but had failed to follow through. They cited cost concerns around glucose monitoring devices and difficulty testing in the early mornings.
Despite these failings, the panel accepted updated medical records and the driver’s assurance that they would now comply with testing rules. The licence was renewed with the condition that the driver must submit monthly blood glucose logs showing tests have been conducted within two hours of starting work and every two hours thereafter.
The panel noted that the driver’s past behaviour demonstrated a pattern of non-compliance and lack of understanding of the medical standards. It issued a warning that any further breaches or failure to submit monthly records would result in another hearing, with a strong possibility of revocation.
