There are a few different ways to register as a donor in Iowa:
- The easiest way is to register online by clicking here.
- Say YES to becoming a donor when receiving or renewing your driver’s license.
- Say YES to becoming a donor when purchasing a hunting, fishing, or fur harvester license through the Department of Natural Resources.
No. Registering at the DMV or online is enough. Both options will ensure that you are on the Iowa Donor Registry.
Any person of any age may register as a donor on the Iowa Donor Registry. Parents or next-of-kin will have the final decision regarding donation for anyone under the age of 18.
Absolutely. We highly encourage you to let your family know about your decision to become a donor so that they are not surprised at the time of your death.
Being a registered donor means you have given first person authorization for donation. No one can override your registration and donation choice. Iowa Donor Network works closely with families to support them through the donation process and to honor your decision. We highly encourage people to talk to their families about their donation decision in advance as it can be helpful to your family to know your wishes about being a donor.
To fulfill your donation decision, Iowa Donor Network must be notified of your death within a few hours. Hospitals are required to notify Iowa Donor Network of all patient deaths. Iowa Donor Network works closely with medical examiners, emergency responders, hospices, and long-term care facilities to refer deaths that occur outside a hospital setting. After Iowa Donor Network is notified of your death, they will determine at that time if you are medically suitable to donate. If you are medically suitable, Iowa Donor Network will notify your family of your decision to be a donor. Iowa Donor Network will work closely with your family and the agency that notified them of your death to coordinate the donation process. Iowa Donor Network also provides ongoing companionship and grief support to donor families.
If you wish to remove yourself from the Iowa Donor Registry, the process depends on how you registered:
If you registered through the Iowa Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) and your driver’s license or ID shows a red heart and the word “DONOR”, you’ll need to update your donor status directly with the DMV.
- To ensure the best service, they recommend scheduling an appointment with them. However, walk-ins are always welcome, and they'll do their best to accommodate you.
- Additionally you can also be served by your local county treasurer's office. Please check with their office to see if you need an appointment.
- Your new license or ID will be printed without the donor status once the change is made. There is a $10 fee for a new license. If you update your donor status during your license renewal, there is no additional fee.
If you registered through Iowa Donor Network’s website, you can have your name removed by calling Iowa Donor Network at 1-800-831-4131.
Taking both steps ensures that your decision is accurately reflected in all records.
Still have questions? Here’s some helpful information on how to remove your donor registration at the DMV.