How to Revoke First-Person Consent Organ Donation

Organ donation is simple to add or remove from your driver's license.

Being an organ donor is as easy as checking a box on your driver's license application. When you renew your license every four years in the United States, you are again asked if you wish to be a donor. When you agree, you are giving "first-person consent" to be a donor. If you change your mind later, however, it is easy to make your wishes known.

Instructions

1. Renew your driver's license immediately at your local Department of Motor Vehicles office, removing the consent to be an organ donor once you're certain about your decision. You do not need to wait until your license renewal is due--the process is the same as if you lost your license and need to have it reissued. This can be done in all states. A renewal fee will be required when you purchase the new license.

2. Inform your family and assigned health advocate of your wishes to no longer be an organ donor. If your license cannot be located for some reason after a life-altering incident or illness, you can be assured someone can let your wishes be known to the hospital.

3. Note your wishes to not be an organ donor in your living will or health directive, or amend it to show your wishes if you do not have a driver's license.

Tips & Warnings

• You may wish to discuss organ donation with your doctor before changing your driver's license. Many myths abound that cause needless worries, and you may decide to remain a donor after speaking with your physician.

• It is important to discuss your wishes with family because they can go against your wishes in some states, especially if those wishes are not clearly spelled out to health practioners.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Organ donation: Don't let these 10 myths confuse you
• Health First: Organ & Tissue Donation

Resources

• Organdonor.gov: Information on Organ and Tissue Donation
• Bob's New Heart: 'First Person Consent' can increase organ donation