MV-OD Form – The MV-OD form is the official New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) document titled “What You Should Know About Becoming an Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor.” It serves as your complete guide to the NYS Donate Life Registry and explains how to legally consent to organ, eye, and tissue donation.
This free one-page PDF, last updated September 2024 (MV-OD 9/24), is the go-to resource for New Yorkers who want clear, official information before registering as donors. It covers enrollment options, what happens after you join the registry, and important facts about donation.
Direct download: MV-OD Form PDF
Why Register as an Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donor in New York?
One organ donor can save up to 8 lives and improve the lives of up to 75 others through tissue donation. In New York, more than 8 million people (over 51% of eligible residents) have already joined the NYS Donate Life Registry, yet thousands still wait for transplants.
Registering gives you peace of mind: your first-person consent is legally binding, and families do not need to give additional permission. It also ensures your wishes are documented and respected.
How to Download and Use the MV-OD Form PDF?
- Visit the official NY DMV page or click the link above.
- Download the MV-OD PDF instantly — no sign-up required.
- Read the full guide, then choose your preferred enrollment method (DMV transaction, online, or mail).
The form is designed to be printed or viewed on any device and pairs perfectly with the official NYS Donate Life Registry website at DonateLife.ny.gov.
Understanding the NYS Donate Life Registry
The NYS Donate Life Registry is the state’s official database of people who have consented to donate organs, eyes, and/or tissues after death. Once enrolled, your decision is legally binding — your family’s permission is not required.
You will receive a confirmation email or letter with instructions on how to update, limit, or revoke your consent at any time.
Step-by-Step: Enrolling Through DMV Transactions (Easiest Method)
The MV-OD form highlights several convenient DMV options:
- Apply for or renew a driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID card → Simply say “Yes” to organ donation. Your new document will display the heart symbol and “Organ Donor.”
- Register a vehicle (new registrations or online renewals since March 2023) → Follow the on-screen prompt to join.
- Use MyDMV account → Enroll online anytime if you already have a license or ID.
Important note: Signing the back of your license does not enroll you in the registry. You must complete the official donation section or use one of the methods above.
Other Ways to Join the Registry
- Online — Fastest option: Visit donatelife.ny.gov/register.
- By mail — Download and print an enrollment form from Donate Life NY.
- At other locations — When applying for IDNYC, voting registration, or health insurance through NY State of Health.
Key Facts You Should Know Before Donating
- You must be 16 or older to enroll. Parents/guardians can revoke consent for 16- or 17-year-olds; at 18, only you can change it.
- Donation does not affect your medical care or treatment.
- There is no cost to your family.
- Organs and tissues go to patients with the greatest need, regardless of age, race, or income.
How to Add or Remove the Heart Symbol on Your License/ID?
To display or hide the heart symbol:
- Complete MV-44 (Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card).
- Write “Add Organ Donor Heart Icon” or “Remove Organ Donor Heart Icon” in the “Other Change” box.
- Pay the $17.50 replacement fee at a DMV office.
Crucial: Removing the heart symbol does NOT remove you from the registry. You must separately revoke your registration online or via the removal form.
How to Change, Limit, or Revoke Your Donation Decision?
Visit DonateLife.ny.gov or call 1-866-NY-DONOR (1-866-693-6667). You can update your preferences or fully remove your name anytime. A confirmation will be sent to you.
Local Organ Procurement Organizations in New York
The MV-OD form lists these trusted partners for more information:
- Center for Donation & Transplant (Albany) — 1-800-256-7811
- ConnectLife (Buffalo) — 1-800-227-4771
- Finger Lakes Donor Recovery Network (Rochester/Syracuse) — 1-800-810-5494
- LiveOnNY (NYC & Long Island) — 1-800-443-8469
Common Questions About the MV-OD Form and Organ Donation
Q: Is the MV-OD form the actual registration form?
A: No — it’s the informational guide. Use it to understand the process, then enroll via DMV, online, or mail.
Q: Does my medical history prevent donation?
A: Most people can donate something. Medical staff decide at the time of death.
Q: How many New Yorkers are waiting for transplants?
A: Nearly 8,000 New Yorkers are currently on the waiting list.
Take Action Today: Become a Lifesaver
Downloading and reading the MV-OD form is the first step toward making a lifesaving decision. Whether you enroll at the DMV, online at DonateLife.ny.gov, or by mail, your choice can save up to eight lives.
Ready to register?
→ Download the MV-OD PDF: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mvod.pdf
→ Enroll instantly: donatelife.ny.gov/register
Share this guide with friends and family — one conversation can inspire many donors. Together, New Yorkers are building a stronger Donate Life Registry and giving hope to thousands waiting for transplants.