You can remove your organ donor status through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

Texas lets you change your organ donor status at any time, even if you said yes when you got your license. The fastest way is online through the DPS website — you log in, update your status, and the change takes effect when ready. If you prefer not to use the website, you can mail a signed request or visit a DPS office in person. There is no fee, and you do not need a reason to remove the designation.

Your decision is recorded in the Texas Donate Life Registry, which hospitals and organ procurement organizations check when determining donor status. Removing yourself from the registry means you will not be listed as a donor, even if your license still shows the old information. The registry change happens right away, but your physical license will still display the donor symbol until you renew it or get a replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the DPS website is the fastest way to remove your donor status and takes effect when ready.
  • You can also mail a signed written request to the DPS or visit a driver's license office in person to make the change.
  • Removing yourself from the registry happens right away, but your physical license will still show the donor symbol until you renew or replace it.
  • You do not need to provide a reason for removing your donor status, and there is no cost to make the change.

Removing your status online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the Donate Life Registry section. You will need to create an account or log in if you already have one. The system will ask you to verify your identity using information from your driver's license or ID card, such as your license number and date of birth.

Once you are logged in, find the option to update your donor status and select "no" or "decline to donate." Review your changes and submit. The system will show you a confirmation that your status has been updated. This change is recorded in the state registry when ready, so hospitals and organ procurement organizations will see that you are not a donor if they check the registry.

Keep in mind that your physical license will still show the donor symbol until you renew it or order a replacement. If you want the license itself updated right away, you will need to visit a DPS office or mail in a replacement request.

Removing your status by mail

Write a signed letter stating that you want to remove your organ donor status. Include your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and current address. You can keep the letter brief — a straightforward statement like "I request to remove my organ donor status from my Texas driver's license" is enough.

Mail your letter to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Division, at the address listed on the DPS website. Processing by mail usually takes two to four weeks. Once the DPS receives and processes your request, your status will be removed from the Donate Life Registry.

Request a replacement license at the same time if you want the donor symbol removed from your physical card. You can do this by including a note in your letter or by submitting a separate replacement request online or at a DPS office.

Removing your status in person at a DPS office

Visit any Texas DPS driver's license office and tell the staff member you want to remove your organ donor status. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and a form of identification. The staff can update your status in the system right away.

If you want your physical license updated when ready, you can order a replacement at the same time. Replacement licenses cost around $16 and are usually ready within one to two weeks, though some offices offer expedited service. Ask the staff about current wait times and options when you visit.

To find the DPS office nearest you, use the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Checking ahead can save you a trip.

What happens after you remove your status

Once your request is processed, you are removed from the Texas Donate Life Registry. Hospitals and organ procurement organizations check this registry when a person is deceased or near death, so removing yourself means you will not be contacted about donation and your organs will not be recovered for transplant.

Your family members cannot override your decision to remove your donor status. Texas law gives your own wishes priority over family requests. If you change your mind later, you can add yourself back to the registry using the same methods.

Your physical license will continue to show the donor symbol until you renew it or order a replacement. This does not affect your actual status in the registry — the registry is what hospitals check, not your license. However, if you want to avoid confusion, ordering a replacement license at the time you remove your status ensures your card matches your current wishes.

Renewing or replacing your license after removing donor status

When you renew your Texas driver's license, you will be asked about organ donor status during the renewal process. You can confirm that you do not want to be a donor at that time. Your new license will not display the donor symbol.

If you do not want to wait for renewal, you can order a replacement license online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. A replacement license costs the same as a renewal and is valid for the same length of time as your current license. Processing time varies, but most replacements are ready within one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my family know I removed my donor status?

No, the DPS does not notify your family when you change your donor status. If you want your family to know your wishes, you should tell them directly. Having a conversation about your decision can prevent confusion or conflict later.

Can I remove my status if I am not a Texas resident anymore?

Yes. You can remove your status online, by mail, or by visiting a DPS office, even if you have moved out of state. The online method works from anywhere. If you use mail or visit an office, the same process applies.

What if I change my mind and want to be a donor again?

You can add yourself back to the Donate Life Registry at any time using the same methods — online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. There is no waiting period or penalty for changing your mind.

Does removing my donor status affect my driver's license in any other way?

No. Changing your donor status does not affect your driving record, insurance, or any other part of your license. It only changes whether you are listed in the organ donor registry.

How long does it take for the change to show up in the registry?

Online changes take effect when ready. Mail and in-person requests are processed within a few days to a few weeks, depending on DPS workload. Your physical license will still show the donor symbol until you renew or replace it, but the registry change is what matters to hospitals.