Organ donation laws vary state by state. The location of death determines which state's laws apply, not the location of legal residence. For donation laws in other states, click here.

In North Carolina, simply indicating that you are an organ donor on your driver's license is not enough - it is not a legal documentation of your wishes.

If you wish to become an organ donor, follow these steps:

• Indicate that you wish to become a donor when you apply for or renew your driver's license.
• Fill out an organ donation card and have two witnesses sign it as well. Carry it with you, perhaps behind your driver's license. An organ donation card IS a legal document indicating your commitment to be a donor. [download an organ donation card]
• Tell your family about your wishes! It is important that they understand and support your decision to become an organ donor. [download a family notification form]

You might also want to join a donor registry if your state has one (not in North Carolina), include donation in your advance directives, will, and living will, or tell your friends, physician, and religious leader.


Sources: DonateLife.gov: Make Your Wish Known;