Can I donate blood?
To ensure the safety and reliability of the blood supply, there are some requirements for giving blood. While some restrictions may temporarily defer you from making a blood donation, we encourage you to find out if you would be eligible to save lives by donating blood or platelets.
Donating blood is safe and convenient when you are:
- In good health
- 17 years or older—16 with written parental consent (PDF)
- At least 110 pounds (female donors age 16-18 have additional height and weight requirements)
- Free of antibiotics for 24 hours, unless taken for preventative reasons
- Symptom-free for at least 72 hours following a cold or flu
Restrictions
- Have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 or had a positive diagnostic test in the last 14 days, or are on self-quarantine restrictions
- Medical-related restrictions may include: uncontrolled hypertension; recent history of cancer, leukemia, or lymphoma; as well as risk of exposure to hepatitis, HIV, or AIDS; etc.
- International travel may temporarily or permanently defer you from donating if you have:
- Traveled to areas endemic for malaria
- Lived in a malaria-endemic area
- Spent 5 years or more in France and/or Ireland from 1980–2001
- Spent 3 months or more in the United Kingdom from 1980–1996
- There is a 3-month deferral period for men who have had sex with other men, starting from the date of last sexual contact
- Do not donate blood if you have AIDS, have ever had a positive HIV test, or are at risk for HIV/AIDS
- There is no deferral from blood donation after getting a tattoo or body piercing from a licensed establishment (the previous 7-day deferral has been removed as of December 2019)
Please note: Infectious disease testing is performed for the safety of the blood supply. Please do not donate blood as a means of screening for any infection or condition.
Let us help you determine your eligibility—whether you have questions about recent travel, medications you are taking, or a current medical condition. Call us to verify eligibility or for detailed information about safety restrictions governing blood donations at 888-448-3253 prior to making an appointment. Final determination of eligibility occurs when you present to donate at a donor center or blood drive.
Are you ready to help save a life?
Memorial Blood Centers has established guidelines for blood donation eligibility, incorporating regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Regulations ensure the safety and reliability of the blood supply as well as the comfort and safety of the generous donors who give.
Learn More
- Tips for a successful donation
- COVID-19 and Blood Donation
- 4 Easy Steps to Giving Blood
- Blood Donation Types
- Athletes and Blood Donation
- FDA Recent Guideline Update
Blood donation reference documents*
- Blood Donor Education Materials
- Medication Deferral List
- Height and Weight Requirements
- 16-Year-Old Parental Consent Form
*Time sensitive material. In order to ensure the most up-to-date information is distributed, you will receive and be asked to read this material in person, at the time of your blood donation. Conditions and restrictions governing blood safety and blood donation may change at any time.