Understanding organ donation
The driver licence tick
Last reviewed: August 2026
Ticking 'donor' on your driver licence records an indication of your wishes. It isn't an organ donor register, and New Zealand doesn't have one.
Your whānau or the people who would be at your bedside at the time when donation is being considered will always be asked if they knew your wishes.
The most important step is having the conversation with them early, so they know what you want.
Is the driver licence tick an official donor register?
No. There is no organ donor register in New Zealand. When you apply for or renew your driver licence, you can indicate that you'd like to be a donor, and the word 'DONOR' is printed on your licence. It's an expression of your wishes only.
I've ticked 'donor'. Is that all I need to do?
No. The most important thing you can do is have a conversation early with your whānau or the people who would be at your bedside if you were critically ill. If donation is ever possible, a healthcare professional will always ask your family, or the people called to your bedside, whether they know your wishes. If you've told them, there is nothing else you need to do.
Have the conversation about organ donation
Our conversation guide takes about 2 minutes. It will step you through 5 questions and make a short summary of your wishes and reasons, which you can share with the people who matter.
What exactly have I agreed to donate?
Nothing specific. The licence doesn't record which organs or tissues you're willing to donate. Depending on your age and medical history, you can donate your heart or heart valves, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, eye tissue and skin — so tell your whānau or the people who would be at your bedside if you were critically ill which organs you'd want to donate. Only the organs and tissues your family consents to will be donated.
Will my family have the final say?
Yes. Your family will be asked for their consent before any donation goes ahead. In our experience, families very rarely override the wishes of their loved one, especially when those wishes are known. Knowing what you wanted can also make their decision a little easier.
I don't have a driver licence. Can I still be a donor?
Yes. The licence tick was never the deciding step; your family knowing your wishes is. Tell the people who would be contacted in the event of your death what you'd want to happen, and which organs and tissues you'd want to donate.
How do I get 'donor' printed on my licence?
Tick DONOR at question 4C when you apply for or renew your driver licence. You'll be asked again each time you renew.
