Can anyone declare intent to become an organ or tissue donor?
Anyone can express a wish to become a donor by joining a donor registry, signing a donor card, or indicating intent to donate on a driver’s license application. A family may decide to donate the organs of a deceased loved one who has not indicated a choice about donation or who is under age—a child, for example. A minor usually has to take additional steps to declare his or her decision to be a donor. While requirements vary from State to State, most States require the written consent of the minor’s parent or guardian. Many States will only honor the decision of minors over a certain age (for example, minors over the age of 16). Most States consider an 18-year-old to be an adult with respect to the decision to donate; however, this also varies by State. Your local OPO is the best source of information on the requirements in your State.
Anyone can express a wish to become a donor by joining a donor registry, signing a donor card, or indicating intent to donate on a driver’s license application. A family may decide to donate the organs of a deceased loved one who has not indicated a choice about donation or who is under age —a child, for example.
