Organ Donor Programs: What You Should Know

If you have never applied for a driver's license before, then you might not be familiar with one of the questions they may ask you on that application: would you like to become an organ donor? While many of us don't want to be thinking about these types of situations, many states have partnered with donor programs to help communicate your wishes a little easier should the worst happen. It is a major decision, so we are sharing some things you should know about organ donor programs before saying yes or no to this question.

Organ Donor Programs Save Lives

One of the main reasons people sign up to become organ donors is because of the number of lives they can save and heal. According to Donate Life America, one organ, eye, and tissue donor can save and heal more than 75 lives. That is one person having the ability to impact as many as 75 lives!

It is desperately needed also, as another person is added to the waiting list every 9 minutes and an average of 17 people die each day waiting for an organ donation. If you make that choice to become an organ donor and show it on your drivers license, then you could possibly help stop someone from becoming one of those 17 people.

Signing Up For An Organ Donor Program

With the help from states, it is easier than ever to opt-in to the organ donation program. While the Health Resources & Services Administration offers resources to register, most of the organ donations would need to happen in that individual's state. Because of that, it is very appealing to offer this option during the driver license application process. There are estimates showing that over 4,000 DMV offices now offer the organ donation registration option and about 90% of all organ donation signups take place through the DMV.

While registering for organ donation through your state DMV is a pretty easy process, you do have to be 18 years old to sign up on your own. That does not mean you can't be an organ donor if you are under 18, but you will need your parents' permission. Besides the age requirement, there are no other qualifications needed and anyone can do it if they feel comfortable with the process.

While you can register when applying for or renewing your driver's license, it doesn't have to be only then. You can also register anytime through the numerous registration sites online, like Donate Life America.

What To Do Next?

Once you register as an organ donor, it is important to discuss your wishes with your loved ones. It is important to let other people know how you feel and what you would like to happen to your organs when you pass away. Once your family and loved ones know, there is not much more to do after registering.

It is now easier than ever to register as an organ donor and it's a great way to give the gift of life to someone else. Most states have guidelines for becoming an organ donor in the driver's handbook for your state.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Edand book your driving lesson today.