First Visit Takes
Plan extra time for screening
Required Documents (MUST BRING)
You cannot donate without these:
1. Valid Photo ID
- Driver's license (most common)
- State ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
- Must NOT be expired
2. Proof of Address
If your ID doesn't show current address, bring one of:
- Utility bill (within 30-60 days)
- Bank statement
- Lease agreement
- Official mail with your name and address
3. Proof of Social Security Number
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Pay stub showing SSN
- Tax return
Recommended Items
Not required, but helpful:
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the process
- Snacks: Protein bar for after donation
- Phone charger: First visit takes 2-3 hours
- Headphones: Watch videos or listen to music
- Book or tablet: Entertainment during donation
- Comfortable clothing: Short sleeves or easy to roll up
- List of medications: Names and dosages
- Insurance card: Not required, but may be asked
Day-Before Preparation
Start preparing 24 hours ahead:
- Drink lots of water: At least 8-10 glasses
- Eat protein-rich meals: Eggs, meat, beans, nuts
- Get good sleep: 7-8 hours minimum
- Avoid alcohol: No drinking 24 hours before
- Avoid fatty foods: Can affect plasma quality
- Eat iron-rich foods: Spinach, red meat, fortified cereals
Day-Of Preparation
Morning of your appointment:
- Eat a good breakfast: Protein and complex carbs
- Keep drinking water: Continue hydrating
- Take normal medications: Unless told otherwise
- Wear short sleeves: Or sleeves that roll up easily
- Arrive 15 min early: Paperwork takes time
What to Expect First Visit
| Step | Time | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in | 15-20 min | Verify documents, register |
| Health screening | 30-45 min | Medical history, questions |
| Physical exam | 15-20 min | Vitals, brief physical |
| Blood tests | 10-15 min | Protein, hematocrit levels |
| Donation | 45-90 min | Actual plasma collection |
| Recovery | 10-15 min | Rest, snack, payment |
Pro Tips for First-Timers
- Book early: Morning appointments often have shorter waits
- Bring entertainment: 2-3 hours is a long time
- Stay calm: Nervousness can affect vitals
- Don't look: If needles bother you, look away
- Pump your hand: Helps speed up donation
- Ask questions: Staff are used to first-timers
- Know your referral code: If someone referred you
What NOT to Bring
- Children: Most centers don't allow kids
- Expired ID: Will be turned away
- Temporary ID: Usually not accepted
- Bad attitude: Staff can refuse service
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a temporary paper license?
Most centers require the actual card, not a temporary paper version. Wait for your real ID to arrive before scheduling.
What if my address doesn't match my ID?
Bring additional proof of address like a utility bill, bank statement, or official mail. The address on the proof must match where you currently live.
Do I need my Social Security card?
The actual card is best, but a W-2, pay stub with full SSN, or tax document showing your SSN also works.
Don't forget: Valid photo ID, proof of address, and proof of Social Security number are REQUIRED. Without all three, you cannot donate.
This is just one piece of the puzzle. For everything you need to know about plasma donation in 2026—earnings, centers, eligibility, and pro tips—check out our comprehensive resource: