Which diabetes complication would likely disqualify a driver from being qualified?

Retinopathy is a complication associated with diabetes that affects the eyes, potentially leading to vision impairment or blindness. Under FMCSA regulations, a driver is required to have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction. If a driver suffers from significant visual impairment due to diabetic retinopathy, it could pose serious safety risks while driving. Therefore, the presence of retinopathy can lead to disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle.

In contrast, stable blood sugar levels, obesity, and high cholesterol do not inherently disqualify a driver. Stable blood sugar indicates that a driver's diabetes is well-managed, which is a key aspect of being medically fit for commercial driving. Obesity, while it can be a risk factor for various health issues, is not an automatic disqualifier unless it directly impacts a driver's physical capabilities. Similarly, high cholesterol levels may be a concern for overall health, but they do not directly disqualify a driver unless they contribute to additional health complications that affect driving ability.