Frequently Asked Questions

What is organ transplantation?

If you have a medical condition that may cause one or more of your vital organs to fail, transplantation may be a treatment option. A transplant is a surgical operation to give a functioning human organ to someone whose organ has stopped working or is close to failing. In some cases, a living person can donate all or part of a functioning organ. In other instances, the donor would be someone who has recently passed away.

How can I register to become an organ donor?

You can register online or through the Health app on your iPhone. You can also register on the NJ State Registry by visiting your local MVC office. 

What organs and tissue can be donated?

• The eight vital organs that can be donated are heart, kidneys (2), pancreas, lungs (2), liver, and intestines.

• Donated corneas help restore sight.

• Skin grafts heal burn victims and are used for breast reconstruction post-mastectomy.

• Healthy heart valves are life-saving to those with diseased valves.

• Bone grafts, ligament and tendons are used to repair injured or diseases bones and joints.

Does it cost anything to donate tissues and organs?

There is no cost to the donor’s family or estate for organ and/or tissue donation.

Does my religion support organ and tissue donation?

All major religions support donation and consider it the greatest gift a person can give.

Are there age limits for donating organs?

There is no age limit for organ donation. Even people in their 80s and 90s have successfully donated organs and tissues. To date, the oldest donor in the U.S. was age 95.

Will donation impact traditional funeral services?

During the recovery procedure, the utmost care and respect is given to the donor’s body and every effort is made to meet your needs. Donated organs and tissue are removed by skilled medical professionals. An open casket funeral is possible for organ and tissue donors, and funeral arrangements can continue as planned following donation. 

How do I change my donor status or remove myself from the donor registry?

If registered online through the Donate Life National Registry, update or remove your registration at RegisterMe.org.

If registered through the NJ MVC, visit nj.gov/mvc/pdf/drivertopics/donor.pdf to remove the registration from your driver record.