Question 1

Who is eligible to become an organ or stem cell donor?

Accepted Answer

Most healthy adults can register. Organ donor registration in the U.S. is generally open to anyone 18 or older (some states allow younger registration with parental consent). Bone marrow and stem cell registries like Be The Match accept people ages 18–40 in the best health.

Question 2

How do I register as an organ donor?

Accepted Answer

You can sign up in minutes online at organdonor.gov or through your state's DMV when you renew your driver's license or ID.

Question 3

How do I join the stem cell or bone marrow donor registry?

Accepted Answer

Join Be The Match (NMDP) at bethematch.org. They mail you a free cheek-swab kit. Your tissue type is added to the registry so patients searching for a match can find you.

Question 4

How does donor matching work?

Accepted Answer

Organ matching uses blood type, body size, medical urgency, and location. Bone marrow and stem cell matching uses HLA tissue typing — the closer the HLA match between donor and patient, the better the chance of a successful transplant.

Question 5

Does it cost anything to donate?

Accepted Answer

No. Donors and their families never pay for donation. Medical costs related to donation are covered by the recipient's insurance or the transplant program.

Question 6

Is donating safe?

Accepted Answer

Living and stem cell donation are considered safe procedures performed by experienced medical teams. Most stem cell donations today are done through a non-surgical blood draw (PBSC) and donors typically recover within a week.

Question 7

Can I change my mind after registering?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Registration is a commitment, not a contract. You can update or withdraw your registration at any time through the registry or your state donor program.

Choose a Transplant Type

Additional Guides & Support

Become an Organ Donor – Help Save Lives & Find a Match

Donor FAQ — Eligibility, Registration & Matching