Plasma Donation Requirements 2026
Complete eligibility checklist with updated FDA rules. Find out if you qualify in 60 seconds.
Quick Eligibility Check
Answer these 6 questions to see if you likely qualify:
1. Are you between 18 and 69 years old?
2. Do you weigh at least 110 pounds?
3. Are you in general good health (no active infections)?
4. Do you have a valid government-issued ID?
5. Have you had any tattoos or piercings in the last 3 months from an unlicensed facility?
6. Are you taking blood thinners (Warfarin, Heparin, etc.)?
You Likely Qualify!
Based on your answers, you meet the basic requirements. The plasma center will do a final screening.
Find a Center Near YouYou May Not Currently Qualify
Based on your answers, you may have a temporary or permanent deferral. Review the requirements above or contact a local plasma center to discuss your specific situation.
Please answer all questions to check your eligibility.
2026 Basic Requirements
Age Requirements
- ✓ 18-69 years old at most centers
- ✓ 16-17 with parental consent at some centers
- ⚠ Some centers cap at 65 - check locally
Weight Requirements
- ✓ Minimum: 110 lbs (50 kg)
- ✓ Maximum: ~400 lbs (varies by center)
- ⓘ Higher weight = more plasma = more pay
ID Requirements
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- ✓ Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, lease)
- ✓ Social Security card (for tax reporting)
Health Requirements
- ✓ General good health - no active illness
- ✓ Hematocrit: 38%+ (women), 39%+ (men)
- ✓ Protein: 6.0-9.0 g/dL
What Disqualifies You (Permanent)
- ✕ HIV/AIDS positive
- ✕ Hepatitis B or C (current or past)
- ✕ IV drug use history
- ✕ Human growth hormone from pituitary glands
- ✕ Organ or tissue transplant recipient
- ✕ Lived in UK 3+ months (1980-1996) - BSE risk
Temporary Deferrals (Wait Periods)
| Situation | Wait Period |
|---|---|
| Cold, flu, or minor illness | Until symptom-free |
| Antibiotics (infection) | Until course completed + 24-48 hours |
| Tattoo/piercing (licensed facility) | No wait in most states |
| Tattoo/piercing (unlicensed facility) | 3-4 months |
| Pregnancy | 6 weeks after delivery |
| Blood transfusion received | 3 months |
| Travel to malaria-risk areas | 3-12 months (depends on country) |
| COVID-19 infection | 14 days after symptom-free |
Medication Eligibility Guide
Usually OK to Donate
- ✓ Birth control pills/IUD
- ✓ Antidepressants (SSRIs)
- ✓ Blood pressure medications (most)
- ✓ Thyroid medications
- ✓ Allergy medications
- ✓ Diabetes medications (oral)
- ✓ Vitamins and supplements
- ✓ OTC pain relievers
Usually NOT OK
- ✕ Blood thinners (Warfarin, Heparin)
- ✕ Accutane (defer 1 month after)
- ✕ Antibiotics for active infection
- ✕ Avodart, Proscar (6 months)
- ✕ Soriatane (3 years)
- ✕ Tegison (permanent)
- ✕ HIV PrEP medications
- ✕ Hepatitis B immunoglobulin
Always disclose all medications during screening. Bring a list if you take multiple medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to donate plasma in 2026?
In 2026, plasma donors must be 18-69 years old (some centers accept 16-17 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 lbs, be in general good health, have valid government ID with proof of address, and pass a medical screening including protein and hematocrit tests.
What medications disqualify you from donating plasma?
Blood thinners (Coumadin, Warfarin, Heparin), Accutane (defer 1 month), antibiotics for active infection (defer until completed), HIV medications, and certain blood pressure medications may disqualify you. Most common medications like birth control, antidepressants, and blood pressure meds are usually acceptable.
Can you donate plasma with tattoos in 2026?
Yes, in most states. If your tattoo was done at a licensed facility, there's no waiting period. If done at an unlicensed facility or you're unsure, most centers require a 3-4 month deferral. This is shorter than the previous 12-month wait.
Can diabetics donate plasma?
Yes, in many cases. Type 2 diabetics on oral medication or diet-controlled can usually donate. Type 1 diabetics on insulin may be deferred at some centers. Your blood sugar should be well-controlled and you should feel healthy on the day of donation.
Ready to Start Donating?
Use our calculator to see how much you can earn based on your weight and location.