Dr. John Carter needed a kidney transplant because of amyloidosis, a really severe complication from schistosomiasis that had basically destroyed his remaining kidney. He actually came back to Chicago to get on the US transplant list for specialized medical care. Wikipedia

What episode does Carter get a kidney?

Dr. John Carter actually got his kidney transplant in the ER Season 12 episode "Old Times," which aired on March 2, 2006.

This episode was a big deal, bringing back original cast members Carol Hathaway and Doug Ross. They really helped make the organ donation happen, which was a huge turning point in Carter's ongoing health struggles. IMDb

Does Carter get a kidney on ER?

Yes, Carter does get a kidney transplant in the Season 12 episode "Old Times," thanks to his old colleagues, Carol Hathaway and Doug Ross.

That kidney came from a grieving mother in Seattle, which honestly added a really touching emotional layer to his whole recovery. It finally brought some much-needed closure to his health problems.

Their child, Joshua Carter, sadly died in utero in 2004.