Polydopamine layers were polymerized directly from Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane-buffered solution in a one-step immersion process onto magnesium surface. Scanning electron microscopy showed successful formation of a ∼1 μm thick layer. ASTM D3359-09 "Tape test" revealed excellent adhesion of the layer. X-ray induced photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy verified the presence of polydopamine on the surface. Corrosion measurements were performed in 0.1 M NaCl solution investigating the influence of coating parameters: dopamine concentration, immersion time, solution pH, and immersion angle. Tafel analysis revealed strong improvement of corrosion behavior compared to bare magnesium. Polydopamine layers prepared with optimized coating procedure showed promising corrosion properties in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium. In summary, polydopamine coatings offer a simple treatment for magnesium to improve the corrosion behavior and could further act as intermediate layer for further surface functionalization.