Plasma Donation Eligibility Requirements and Limits

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements

Most plasma centers accept donors aged 18-69. Some centers have upper age limits of 65, while others extend to 74 for established donors in good health. First-time donors over 65 may face additional screening. Age requirements exist because plasma regeneration efficiency and overall health factors vary with age.

Weight Requirements

The minimum weight is 110 pounds (50 kg) for all plasma centers. This requirement exists because the volume of plasma collected is proportional to body weight—smaller donors cannot safely provide the minimum useful volume. Weight also determines your payment tier, with higher weights enabling larger collection volumes and higher compensation.

General Health Status

Donors must be in generally good health on the day of donation. This does not require perfect health or absence of all medical conditions—many people with managed chronic conditions can donate. However, acute illness, fever, or feeling unwell results in deferral until recovery.

Identification and Residency

Valid government-issued photo ID and proof of current address are required. Social Security number verification is standard. Some centers require proof of local residency within a certain radius. These requirements help prevent duplicate donations at multiple centers and ensure donor traceability.

Donation Frequency Limits

Weekly and Monthly Caps

FDA regulations permit plasma donation up to twice within a seven-day period, with at least one full day between donations. This translates to a maximum of 8-9 donations per month depending on calendar alignment. Centers track your donations electronically to enforce these limits across all locations.

Annual Considerations

While no formal annual cap exists, consistent twice-weekly donation over extended periods may result in declining iron stores or protein levels. Centers monitor these markers and will defer donors showing concerning trends. Most regular donors experience occasional deferrals that naturally limit annual donation counts.

Common Deferral Reasons

Temporary Deferrals

• Low protein or hematocrit: Wait 24-48 hours, improve nutrition
• Recent tattoo or piercing: 3-12 month wait depending on state regulations and facility licensing
• Cold or flu symptoms: Until fully recovered
• Certain medications: Varies by medication type
• Recent dental work: 24-72 hours for routine procedures
• Recent vaccination: 24-48 hours for most vaccines
• Travel to malaria-endemic areas: 3-12 months

Permanent Disqualifications

• HIV positive status
• Hepatitis B or C
• Certain cancers (policies vary)
• IV drug use history
• Specific medical conditions affecting blood safety

Common Mistakes That Affect Eligibility

Inadequate Hydration

Dehydration is a leading cause of failed screenings. Low fluid intake concentrates blood proteins but can cause vein access problems and slow donation times. Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours before donation, especially the morning of your appointment.

Poor Nutrition Before Donation

Skipping meals or eating low-protein foods before donation can result in protein levels below the threshold. Eat protein-rich meals in the days leading up to donation. Iron-rich foods also help maintain hematocrit levels for regular donors.

Incomplete Medical History Disclosure

Failing to mention medications, recent procedures, or health changes leads to problems. If undisclosed information surfaces later, it can result in permanent deferral. Always provide complete, accurate information during screening questionnaires.

Donating Too Frequently

Attempting to donate more than twice weekly by visiting multiple centers is tracked through national databases and results in permanent bans. Centers share donor information specifically to prevent this dangerous practice.

Frequently Asked Questions