The Facts

Did you know that just one organ and tissue donor can either save or improve the lives of up to 60 people?

It's true.

It's also true that more than 80,000 Americans are on waiting lists for organ transplants. And, that an estimated 16 Americans die every day waiting for that transplant, and every 12 seconds another person is added to the waiting list.

But, the good news is that over 25,000 lives were saved last year from the gift of organ donation.

It doesn't cost you or your family anything to become a donor. Your funeral won't be altered or delayed, and you can still have an open-casket ceremony. Donors receive the same quality of medical care as non-donors. All major religions in the United States support organ and tissue donation.

If you're under 18, you are welcome to become a donor, but you'll need to have a parent or legal guardian sign a parental consent form first.

Be sure to talk with your family about your decision to become an organ donor. Designating yourself as an organ donor on your identification card or driver's license will eliminate any confusion at the time of your death.

Register In Person or By Mail

When you're at an exam station applying for or renewing a driver's license or state identification card, simply check off the donor box on the application form to indicate your intention of becoming a donor.

You'll need to sign the application indicating that you have read the donor information provided.

You may register between renewals by completing the online donor form and mailing it to the address listed on the application.

Additional Information

The state's organ donation program is run by LifeSource, a non-profit organization promoting organ and tissue donation in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and parts of Wisconsin.

Contact the organization by calling (888) 5-DONATE.

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