Become an Organ Donor in California 

An organ donor is someone who has decided to give his or her organs or tissue to those who need it following their death. Someone who chooses to donate their organs can help save the lives of up to eight people, and a tissue donor can help up to fifty people. Anyone over the age of 13 can become a potential donor regardless of age, ethnicity or medical history. You may also choose to have only specific organs or tissues donated at the appropriate time.

When you apply for or renew your California driver license, you may choose to become an organ donor by signing up on the Donate Life California Organ and Tissue Donor Registry. Your new license will then have a pink dot on it indicating that you have chosen to donate your organs and/or tissue in the event of your death. If you decide at a later time that you want to be an organ donor, you may sign up online, but your license will not have the pink dot on your California driver license until you renew.

If you choose to become a donor, it is important that you sign up, whether through the DMV when you get your license or online, and discuss your choice with your family. If for some reason you later decide you no longer want to be a donor, you may remove yourself from the registry.

How to Register

It is easy to become an organ donor. When you apply for or renew your driver license, or California ID card, all you need to do is check the “YES! Add my name to the donor registry” box on the renewal form. This will automatically place your name on the Donate Life California Organ and Tissue Donor Registry. You can also visit the Donate Life California website and register there.

If you are 13 or older, you may register on the Donate Life California website, but your parent or guardian will need to authorize the donation when the appropriate time comes.

Aren’t sure about becoming a donor and want more information? Just check the “I do not wish to register at this time.” box, and visit the Donate Life California website. Or you may call Donate Life California and a representative will be able to answer your questions. There is also a Frequently Asked Questions section of the Donate Life California site that can help.