Did you know you have the power to change lives simply by checking a box? That’s right! By registering to donate your organs and tissues after you die, you can save as many as eight lives and improve the lives of up to 75 more.
The need for organ donors in the United States is extremely high, and becoming an organ donor in California is super easy. Here are a few important things you need to know.
Why Become an Organ Donor? Facts About Organ Donation
There are currently about 104,000 people in the U.S. waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and a new patient is added to the list approximately every 10 minutes. Sadly, about 17 of these people die every day because they were not able to get the organ they needed in time.
While surveys show that 90% of adults support the idea of organ donation, only 60% are actually registered donors. Often, this is because they don’t understand the need or just aren’t quite sure how. The good news is, registering to be an organ donor in California is actually a very simple process.
How to Become an Organ Donor in California
In the state of California, there are two ways to become an organ donor.
1. Register When You Apply for or Renew Your Driver’s License
When you complete your driver’s license application, either for the first time or when you renew your license, just check “Yes” next to the question that asks if you want to be an organ or tissue donor. It’s really that easy!
When you get your new driver’s license, it will be marked with a pink organ donor icon, and you’ll receive a donor card to keep in your wallet.
2. Sign up for the Donate Life California Registry
As long as you have a California driver’s license or identification card, you can also register online at the Donate Life California Organ Donor Registry's website. You’ll just need to provide your driver’s license or ID number and some basic contact information. The entire process only takes a couple of minutes.
Note that if you’re between the ages of 13 and 17, you can register to become an organ donor. However, if you die before you turn 18, your family will need to consent to the donation.
You’ve Signed Up – Now What?
Once you complete your registration, talk to your family about your decision. This way, they won’t be surprised if they are asked to help carry out your wishes, and they may be able to proactively inform your medical staff.
You may also consider talking to your friends about your decision. Once you explain how great of an impact it can have, you may encourage them to take this life-saving step as well.
Don’t Have Your California Driver’s License Yet? Aceable Can Help!
When you get your California driver’s license, you’ll have the option to check the box and give the incredible gift of becoming an organ donor. However, before you can get your license, you’ll need to complete your 30-hour driver’s education course, pass your knowledge test, and eventually pass your road test.
Aceable offers fun, easy, and affordable California online driver’s education classes. These mobile-friendly courses allow you to learn at your own pace and eliminate the need to spend your time in a classroom. Start exploring your options today!