You can remove organ donor status at the DMV, online, or by mail — the fastest way is in person

To remove your organ donor status from your California driver's license, you have three routes: visit a DMV office in person, request the change online through the DMV website, or mail a form to the DMV. The in-person visit is fastest — you can walk out with the change recorded the same day. Online requests take about two weeks. Mail takes three to four weeks.

You do not need a new license printed to make this change. The DMV updates your record in the system, and the change takes effect when ready. If you want a physical license that reflects the removal, you can request a replacement card, but that is optional.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any DMV office with your current driver's license to remove organ donor status in one visit, with no appointment needed at most locations.
  • Use the DMV's online service at dmv.ca.gov if you prefer not to visit an office; the change processes in about two weeks.
  • Mail the DL 44 form (process for California Driver License or Identification Card) with your current license to the DMV if you cannot visit or use the website.
  • Your organ donor status change takes effect when ready in the DMV system, even if you do not order a replacement card.
  • You will need to bring proof of residency and your current license if you visit in person.

Removing your status in person at a DMV office

Walk into any California DMV office with your current driver's license. Tell the staff member at the counter that you want to remove your organ donor status. They will ask you to sign a form confirming the change. The update happens on the spot and is recorded in the DMV system when ready.

Bring your current driver's license and one proof of California residency — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. You do not need an appointment at most DMV offices, though some locations now use an online appointment system. Check the DMV website for your local office's hours and whether appointments are required.

If you want a replacement license card that shows the removal, you can request one at the same time. There is no fee for updating your organ donor status, but a replacement card costs $35 if you order it.

Using the DMV's online service

Go to dmv.ca.gov and look for the "Organ Donor" or "Change Your Organ Donor Status" option in the online services menu. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will walk you through confirming your identity and selecting the option to remove your donor status.

After you submit the request online, the DMV processes it within two weeks. You will receive a confirmation email. Your record updates in the system, and you do not need to do anything else. If you want a replacement card, you can order one separately through the same website for $35.

Mailing your request to the DMV

read or request the DL 44 form (process for California Driver License or Identification Card) from the DMV website. Fill out the form and write a note on it or in a separate letter stating that you want to remove your organ donor status. Include your current driver's license (a photocopy is acceptable) and mail everything to the DMV address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes three to four weeks. The DMV will send you a confirmation once your status has been removed. Keep the confirmation for your records. If you want a replacement card, note that on the form when you mail it, and include the $35 fee as a check or money order.

What happens after you remove your status

Once the DMV records the removal, you are no longer listed as an organ donor in California's Donate Life Registry. If you are ever in a hospital and your family or medical team checks your donor status, the system will show that you have opted out.

The removal is permanent unless you change your mind and decide to become a donor again. If you want to restore your donor status later, you can do so through the same three methods — in person, online, or by mail.

If you have already renewed your license

If you renewed your license recently and were asked about organ donor status during the renewal, your current license already reflects your choice at that time. You do not need to do anything else. If you want to change it now, use any of the three methods above.

If you are unsure whether your current license shows you as a donor, you can check by visiting a DMV office or calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. They can tell you what your record shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get a new license card to make the change official?

No. The change takes effect in the DMV system when ready, whether you order a replacement card or not. A new card is optional and costs $35 if you want one. The removal is legally recorded either way.

Can I remove my status if someone else is listed as the license holder?

No. Only the person whose name is on the license can change the organ donor status. If you are making the change for a family member, they must do it themselves or give you written permission and power of attorney.

What if I lose my license before I can remove my donor status?

You can still remove your status by mail or online using your driver's license number and other identifying information. You do not need the physical card in hand. When you replace your lost license, you can request that the new one not show donor status.

Will removing my status affect my insurance or registration?

No. Your organ donor status is separate from your driving record, insurance, and vehicle registration. Removing it changes only the donor registry.

How long does it take to see the change in the system?

In-person changes take effect the same day. Online requests process within two weeks. Mail requests take three to four weeks. Once processed, the change is permanent and when ready in the DMV database.