What ESB 5689 Means for Residents, Drivers, and Safety Awareness
Beginning January 1, 2026, Washington state drivers and ID holders have a new option when renewing or applying for a driver license or identicard: you can voluntarily include your blood type on the card. This change comes through Engrossed Senate Bill 5689 (Chapter 217, Laws of 2025), signed into law during the 2025 legislative session and now in effect.
States have increasingly explored ways to make critical information available in emergencies. Washington joins a small group of states offering this optional designation with the aim of supporting emergency medical responses and potentially encouraging more residents to think about blood donation.
Under the new law, the Department of Licensing will provide a process for drivers to submit verified blood type documentation as part of their license or ID application or renewal. The designation is entirely voluntary and requires proof of blood type from a licensed physician, medical facility, or blood donation organization.
A Simple Choice With Potential Benefits
Some drivers and families immediately see the personal value. In emergency situations, having your blood type readily visible could help medical professionals prioritize initial care considerations. Although medical facilities will still conduct their own testing for accuracy before any blood transfusion, the on-card information may save precious moments during response and triage.
The change also opens a broader opportunity for public awareness. Many people do not know their own blood type, and this optional designation could prompt more Washington residents to donate blood and help address ongoing shortages. Organizations like Bloodworks Northwest highlight that hospitals use hundreds of thousands of units of blood each year, and donations remain vital to emergency and routine care alike.
What You Need to Do
You cannot add your blood type online. To include it on your license or ID, you must visit a Washington driver licensing office in person. Bring documentation confirming your blood type from one of the approved sources. The Department of Licensing charges a small administrative fee, not exceeding $2, for processing this optional designation.
Documentation options include:
-
A form signed by a licensed medical provider
-
A donor card or letter from an accredited blood donation center
-
A digital record clearly showing your verified blood type
Once processed, your updated card will reflect your chosen designation.
What Drivers Should Take From This
This new option is not a requirement, but it is a thoughtfully implemented choice rooted in public safety and personal health preparedness. For everyday drivers, it represents a chance to:
-
Make meaningful health information easily accessible
-
Potentially support faster emergency care responses
-
Engage more intentionally with blood donation networks
At Swerve Driving School, we believe informed drivers make safer choices. This law may seem small, but its implications touch on safety, medical readiness, and community awareness—core themes in responsible driving culture.
If you or someone in your family is renewing a license or ID in Washington this year, consider whether adding your blood type makes sense for you.
Learn more about Swerve Driving School: