ASBP is regulated by Food and Drug Administration guidelines to maintain the safety and quality of blood products. We are held to the same standards and requirements as civilian collection agencies, and along with them, receive accreditation by the Association for Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies. Blood product safety is our number one concern.

The eligibility and common deferrals provided on this site not exhaustive or all inclusive, and may vary based on several factors. Contact us here for specific questions or concerns about eligibility and deferrals or reach out to your local ASBP donor center contact for additional information.

Eligibility

Some of the standard requirements to be eligible to donate are listed below. If you are unsure about your eligibility, please contact us via email or visit your local blood donor center.

• Must be 17 years of age or older. [some locations take 18 and up only]
• Must weigh 116 lbs or more. [depending on donation type, may take 110 lbs]
• Must be feeling well for at least three days prior to donation.
• No major dental work in prior three days/cleaning or fillings for 24 hours.
• Be well hydrated/have eaten something prior.

Common Deferrals

In an abundance of caution, sometimes individuals cannot donate to minimize the risks for the patient. An individual may be deferred temporarily from donating for various reasons, such as extended travel to specific regions. You can find some of these common deferrals listed on our Common Deferrals page.

2023 Update

The FDA has recently recommended updates assessing donor eligibility using the same individual risk-based questions relevant to HIV risk for every donor regardless of sex or gender; an Individual Donor Assessment Screening approach. You can read more about this update in the FDA deferral guidance article and in the Individual Donor Assessment Screening FAQs.

Please DO NOT donate blood at this time if you:

• Tested positive for COVID-19 in last 10 days.
• Have 10 days or less recovering from COVID-19.
• Have had symptoms that include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and/or have experienced mild to severe respiratory illness.