Donation Facts

According to the Coalition on Donation, there are more than 88,000 people awaiting life-saving organ transplants. An average of 17 people die each day from the lack of available organs for transplant.

Becoming a donor doesn't cost you or your family anything. Donors receive the same level of medical care as non-donors. Being a donor won't delay or alter your funeral plans; you can still have a open-casket ceremony. All major religions in the United States support organ and tissue donation.

In the District of Columbia, you must be at least 18 years old to become a donor. However, you can register if you're between the ages of 13―17, but your parents or legal guardians will have the final say over your choice if you should die during this time.

Visit the Washington Regional Transplant Consortium (WRTC) site for more information about becoming an organ donor.

Registering in Person

When applying for a driver's license, permit, or state ID card, you can indicate your desire to become a donor by checking the donor box on your application. Place the red heart sticker you'll receive on your document.

Your donor intentions will be noted in the online donor registry.

Registering Online

Online registration is quick and easy, and can be done at any time. Donate Life, an organization dedicated to organ donation, gives you this option and allows you to make modifications to your information online, as well.

Or, when renewing your driver's license, permit, or state ID card online, you may also register to become a donor.

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