Alabama asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are limited options for casting your ballot without one. Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s probate court to change your name in Alabama. If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Alabama birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Alabama.

You can apply for an updated Alabama birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Center for Health Statistics.

Your application materials must include a certified copy of a court order directing the state to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate. Alabama requires this court order to indicate that you have legally changed your name AND have undergone gender-affirming surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Alabama, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Alabama’s policy for updating the gender marker on your driver’s license or state ID is currently subject to a court challenge.

Alaska requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

You must file a formal request with your county’s Superior Court to change your name in Alaska. The court will post public notice of your name change on its website ahead of your hearing. You may request to be excused from this requirement. You may also be required to publish notice. This could include publication in a print or online newspaper, email, social media post, or another outlet ordered by the court. If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

Resource: Alaska Name Change Packet

Submit a request to Alaska’s Department of Vital Records to amend your birth certificate.

Court Order Certifying Gender Transition: If you change your legal name in Alaska, you may request to also certify your gender transition in the same court order. This court order can be used to amend both the name and gender marker on your Alaska birth certificate.

To apply for an updated Alaska birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• A completed Birth Certificate request form
• Decree/Certificate of Name Change
• Medical certification statement on letterhead signed by qualified healthcare provider or certified copy of court order
• Copy of acceptable ID (listed on request form)
• Payment of applicable fees

Resource: Alaska Department of Vital Records – Policy and Instructions

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Visit an Alaska DMV office and submit a completed Certification Form that is signed by a qualified healthcare provider.

Qualified healthcare providers are defined as: physician in medicine or osteopathy, physician assistant, advanced nurse practitioner, psychologist, social worker, professional counselor

Arizona requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are several forms of ID you can use, including options without a photo. Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

NOTE: Arizona also requires documentary proof of citizenship as part of the state’s voter registration process. Without documentary proof of citizenship on file with the state, you will be designated as a “federal only” voter and will not be able to cast a ballot in state and local elections.

You must file a formal request with your county’s superior court to change your name in Arizona. If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents, including proof of gender affirmation surgery.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Arizona birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update the name on your Arizona driver’s license or state ID within 10 days of legally changing your name. You need to update your name with the Social Security Administration at least two days before visiting the MVD or other authorized office to change your state-issued ID.

You can apply for an updated Arizona birth certificate by submitting a request to the state’s Office of Vital Records. You will need to include a notarized physician’s statement that confirms you meet the state’s specific medical requirements.

Arizona’s Office of Vital Records recommends that you contact them to confirm what will be specifically required for your case.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Arizona, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You must visit the MVD (or an authorized office) and present a signed physician’s statement to update the gender marker on your Arizona driver’s license or state ID. The statement must certify that you are “irrevocably committed” to the transition process.

Arkansas requires you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s Circuit Court Clerk’s Office to change your name in Arkansas. If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Arkansas birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Arkansas.

You can apply for an updated Arkansas birth certificate by submitting a request to the state’s Vital Records Department. Your application materials must include a certified copy of a court order indicating that you have undergone gender-affirming surgery.

You may also be requested to provide a signed physician’s letter confirming that you have undergone gender-affirming surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Arkansas, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your Arkansas driver’s license or state ID by visiting an OMV office and submitting a completed “Driver’s License Gender Designation Form.” The state allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their ID.

Additional medical documentation is not required.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in California, except for some first-time voters.

You must file a formal request with your local superior court to change your name in California.

You may request a court order to change your legal name AND recognize your change of gender or to change your legal name to match your gender identity. The requirements are different for each process.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

Submit a request to California’s Department of Public Health to amend your birth certificate.

You may request to change your birth certificate due to a court-ordered name change or a court-ordered name and gender change. 

To change only your legal name, you will need to provide: 

• completed Form VS 23
• certified copy of name-change court order 
• notarized sworn statement if you wish to request a certified copy of the amended birth certificate (if applicable)
• payment of an application fee(s)

 Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Updating Gender Markers 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to California’s Department of Public Health to amend your birth certificate.

California allows residents to mark female, male, nonbinary, or two dashes on their birth certificates. Medical certification is not required.

To apply for an amended California birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Form VS 24 
• certified copy of court order 
• notarized sworn statement if you wish to request a certified authorized copy of the amended birth certificate (if applicable)
• Supporting documents include copies of the following:
  • Vital Records (birth, death, marriage)
  • Any other documents that support the request for the amendment
  • A certified name change order is required to change the name listed on the birth certificate.
  • payment of an application fee(s)

NOTE:  If you change the name and gender marker on your California-issued ID at the same time, the name change will be sealed in the DMV records. 

1: You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a California-issued ID.

2: Complete an online application for a new driver’s license or ID card.  

3: Visit the DMV and provide the required documentation to demonstrate your name change. Note you may need to provide proof of all former legal name changes.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

NOTE:  If you change the name and gender marker on your California-issued ID at the same time, the name change will be sealed in the DMV records. 

California allows residents to mark M, F, or X (nonbinary) on their state-issued ID. Medical certification is not required.

 1: Complete an online application for a new driver’s license or ID card.  

2: Visit a DMV field office and submit a completed “Gender Category Request” form

Colorado requires that you show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county or district court to change your name in Colorado. 

You will need to be fingerprinted and undergo state and federal criminal background checks within 90 days prior to filing as part of the name-change process.

Publication is not required when you are changing your name to match your gender identity. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Colorado’s Vital Records office to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Colorado birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• completed Birth Certificate correction form
• completed Sex Designation Form (if you are also requesting to change your birth certificate’s gender marker)
• certified copy of name-change court order 
• copy of acceptable ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born

Updating Gender Markers 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Colorado allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their birth certificates.

Submit a request to Colorado’s Vital Records office to amend your birth certificate.

Medical certification is not required for applicants over 18 if you provide a signed and notarized Sex Designation Form. 

To apply for an updated Colorado birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Birth Certificate Correction Form  
• notarized Sex Designation Form or court order indicating that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery
• certified name-change court order (if applicable) 
• copy of acceptable ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: If your state allows for the alteration of your birth certificate, Colorado is able to provide the court order for the change.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

1: You must update your name with the Social Security Administration 24-48 business hours before you can change your name on a Colorado-issued ID. 

2: Make an appointment at a Driver’s License Office and bring the required documentation to demonstrate your name change. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Colorado allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their driver’s license or state ID.

Make an appointment at a Driver License Office and submit a completed application document and/or your current driver’s license/identification card plus the completed Change of Sex Designation form. Medical certification is not required for those of age 18 and above. 

If you don’t present an acceptable ID when voting in person, your provisional ballot will be counted if you sign a written affirmation that you are qualified to vote and that you have not previously voted in the election. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER 

You must file a formal request with your district’s Probate Court to change your name in Connecticut. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to update your birth certificate to the town clerk where you were born.

To change the name on your Connecticut birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized name-change affidavit
• name-change court order (original or certified copy) 
• government-issued photo ID

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

You need to request a packet of documents from Connecticut’s Vital Records Office to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate. You may contact the office by calling (860) 509-8000.

To apply for an updated Connecticut birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized sworn affidavit requesting a replacement birth certificate that reflects your new gender
• a notarized affidavit signed by a qualified healthcare provider* that you have undergone surgical, hormonal, or other treatment clinically appropriate for the purpose of gender transition 
• copy of current government-issued photo ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

*Qualified healthcare providers are physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, or psychologists.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE 

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration at least 48 hours before you can change your name on a Connecticut-issued ID.

Make an appointment to visit a Connecticut DMV office and provide: 

• completed request form 
• your current driver’s license or Non-Driver ID Card

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Connecticut allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their driver’s license or state ID.

Visit a Connecticut DMV and submit a completed Gender Designation Change form. You will need to surrender your current state-issued license or ID card.

NOTE: DMV Employees are prohibited from requesting additional gender-related information (beyond what’s required by the Gender Designation Change form) or asking questions about your private medical history or records.

Delaware asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are several forms of ID you can use, including options without a photo.

If you are a registered voter but do not present an acceptable ID at your polling place, you may sign an affidavit and vote a regular ballot.

Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with the circuit court to change your name in Delaware. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Delaware birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Delaware.

You can apply for an updated Delaware birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Vital Records Registry.

Your application materials must include a sworn statement from a licensed medical or social service provider, stating that you have received care for the purpose of your gender transition. Care may be surgical, hormonal, psychological, or another form that is appropriate for your transition.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Delaware, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your Delaware driver’s license or state ID by visiting a DMV office and submitting a completed “Request for Gender Change on Driver License/Identification Card” form.

This form needs to be signed by a licensed medical or social service provider, but gender-affirming surgery is not required.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in the District of Columbia, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal application with the DC Superior Court to change your name in Washington, DC.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive at least five (5) certified copies of the Order for Name Change of an Adult which can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to DC’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated DC birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• Amendment to Birth Record 
• copy of Primary valid and unexpired photo ID and two forms of additional ID
• original or certified copy of name-change court order 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to DC’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated DC birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Birth Certificate Gender Designation Application Form 
• signed Statement of Licensed Healthcare Provider  certifying you have undergone “treatment appropriate” for gender transition or that you have an intersex condition
• copy of unexpired government-issued photo ID 
• original or certified name-change court order (if applicable) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate where you were born

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR DC-ISSUED ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Washington, DC driver’s license or ID non-driver card.

Visit a DMV Service Center to update the name on your Washington, DC driver’s license or non-driver ID card. 

You will need to provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change and any current ID issued by Washington, DC.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR DC-ISSUED ID

Washington, DC allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their DC driver’s license and non-driver ID. No medical certification or documentation is required. 

You will be able to self-designate a gender marker when you apply for a new or replacement DC driver’s license or non-driver ID card. 

Florida requires that you show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER 

You must file a formal request with the clerk of your county’s Circuit Court to change your name in Florida. 

You will need to be fingerprinted and undergo state and federal criminal background checks as part of the name-change process. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

Resource: FloridaNameChange.org

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

If you change your legal name in Florida…

The Clerk of Court will automatically send a Report of Legal Change of Name to the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. This usually happens within 30 days.

If the Bureau of Vital Statistics has your mailing address, you will be notified in writing when your report is received. Upon payment of the applicable fee(s), the state will amend your birth certificate and issue you a new one.

If you change your legal name in another state…

A certified copy of your legal name change must be submitted with your request to Florida’s Bureau of Vital Statistics.

To change the name on your Florida birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Application for Amendment form
• copy of current photo identification such as driver’s license, State ID, US Passport, or Military ID Card
• notarized Affidavit of Amendment form 
• certified copy of name-change court order
• payment of an application fee(s)

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Florida’s Bureau of Vital Statistics will amend the gender marker on your birth certificate if it receives “original, certified, or notarized supporting documentary evidence” of your gender transition.  What you are required to provide as evidence is not explicitly defined by law. 

To change the gender on your Florida birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Application for Amendment form
• notarized Affidavit of Amendment form 
• sworn medical certification on a physician’s office letterhead that you have received “appropriate” medical treatment for your gender transition (Example language: FloridaNameChange.org) 
• payment of an applicable fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration at least 48 business hours before you can change your name on a Florida-issued ID.

You must update your Florida driver’s license or state ID within 30 days of changing your legal name.

Visit the Florida DMV office and provide a certified copy of your Court Order for a Change of Name along with the other required documentation.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit an FLHSMV office to update the gender marker on your Florida-issued identification. 

You will need to provide an original (not photocopied) statement signed by your attending medical physician that confirms you are receiving  “appropriate” medical treatment for your gender transition. The statement must be on office letterhead and include specific information and language. 

Resource: FloridaNameChange.org 

Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required and FLHSMV employees may not request that you provide it. 

Georgia requires you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your local superior court to change your name in Georgia. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in your county’s “official legal organ” for a specific period of time.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Georgia birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update the name on your Georgia driver’s license or state ID within 60 days of legally changing your name. You need to update your name with the Social Security Administration before visiting a DDS office to change your state-issued ID.

You can apply for an updated Georgia birth certificate by submitting a request to the state’s Vital Records office.

Your application materials must include a certified copy of a court order indicating that you have legally changed your name AND have undergone gender-affirming surgery. You will also need to provide a signed physician’s statement confirming your surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Georgia, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To update the gender marker on your Georgia driver’s license or state ID, you must visit a DDS office and present a signed physician’s statement OR a court order that certifies your gender transition. The document you provide must confirm that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery.

If registered voters in Hawaii don’t have an acceptable ID, there are other ways to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

NAME CHANGE PETITION 

Residents may submit their name change application via the State of Hawaii Online Name Change System.

The online system will generate a name change petition that must be notarized and sent to the Office of the Lt. Governor within 30 days of notarization.

1. You must publish your Notice of Change of Name in a general circulation newsletter for a minimum of one (1) day. This requirement can be waived for your safety.
2. You have sixty (60) days from the date your Notice was signed to submit your signed Notice to the newspaper agency, which will submit proof of publication to you and the Office of the Lt. Governor (which, in turn, will sign and mail the Order to you). 
3. For your name change to be completed, you must file the original, signed Order with the Bureau of Conveyances within sixty (60) days from the date your order was signed.

Resource:  Instructions for change of name using Hawaii’s online system 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Hawaii Department of Health to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Hawaii birth certificate, you will need to provide a certified copy of your name-change court order or name-change petition from the State of Hawaii Online Name Change System.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Hawaii Department of Health to amend your birth certificate. 

To amend your Hawaii birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Application for Amendment to Birth Record
• notarized Affidavit from Physician  
• legal documentation of name change (if applicable) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Hawaii-issued ID. 

Visit Driver’s License Service Center and provide the required documentation.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Hawaii allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued ID. 

You must submit a Gender Designation Form completed by a medical or social professional affirming your new gender.

Idaho asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

If you are a registered voter and do not bring an acceptable ID to the polling place, you may sign a sworn statement and vote a regular ballot.

Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s district court to change your name in Idaho. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a county newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Idaho birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Idaho.

You can apply for an updated Idaho birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Bureau of Vital Records. Medical certification is not required to update your gender marker.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Idaho, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your Idaho driver’s license or state ID by visiting a DMV office and submitting a completed “Request for Gender Change on Driver License/Identification Card” form.

This form needs to be signed by a licensed physician confirming that you have received appropriate medical care for your gender transition.

NOTE: DMV employees cannot request additional gender-related information (beyond what’s required on the application forms) or otherwise ask questions about your private medical history or records

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Illinois, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a Request for Name Change and Order for Name Change with your county’s circuit court to change your name in Illinois.

You will be required to publish a notice in a local newspaper for three weeks. This requirement can be waived for survivors of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Illinois Department of Public Health to correct your birth certificate.

To correct your Illinois birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized Affidavit and Certificate of Correction Request form 
• Declaration of Gender Transition/Intersex Condition form completed by a licensed health care professional* 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable) 
• valid government-issued photo ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

* Qualified health care professionals include a physician, advanced practice nurse, physician assistant, or mental health professional.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Illinois Department of Public Health to correct your birth certificate.

To correct your Illinois birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized Affidavit and Certificate of Correction Request form 
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Certified copy of name-change court order and/or other required documentation 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a Secretary of State facility and apply for a corrected Illinois driver’s license or state ID. You must notify the Illinois Secretary of State of a legal name change within 10 days of the name change.

You will need to bring your current state-issued ID, acceptable ID, and documentation demonstrating your legal name change. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Illinois allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification is required.

Visit a Secretary of State facility to update the gender marker on your Illinois driver’s license or state ID.

You will need to provide a completed Gender Designation Change Form, your current state-issued ID, and payment of an application fee(s). 

Indiana requires you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s court to change your name in Indiana. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

To change the name on your Indiana birth certificate, you will need to provide a certified copy of a court order that directs the state’s Department of Health to amend no your birth record. It is recommended that you contact Indiana’s Vital Records office for more information.

You must update the name on your Indiana driver’s license or state ID within 30 days of legally changing your name. You will need to update your name with the Social Security Administration before visiting a BMV branch to change your state-issued ID.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your Indiana driver’s license or state ID. You may also present an amended birth certificate to demonstrate your name change.

Iowa asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are limited options for casting your ballot without one. Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

To begin Iowa’s name change process, you will need to get a certified copy of your birth certificate.

Then you must file a formal request with your local court to change your name. Subject to the court’s discretion, you may need to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents.

IOWA BIRTH CERTIFICATE

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Iowa birth certificate.

IOWA DRIVER’S LICENSE or STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Iowa.

You may present a certified copy of your name change court order or an amended birth certificate to demonstrate your name change.

You must contact the Iowa Department of Public Health and request a packet of materials and forms to amend the gender marker on your Iowa birth certificate.

You will need to provide a notarized statement from a physician certifying that you meet the state’s medical requirements.

The state may request additional information to determine if you meet its medical requirements.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Iowa, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Requests to update the gender marker on an Iowa driver’s license or state ID must be mailed (with supporting documents) to the state’s Department of Transportation.

If you were born in Iowa, you will need to submit a certified copy of your birth certificate (with amended gender markers).

If you were born outside of the state, you have additional options for supporting documents – including a certified copy of a birth certificate from another state (with amended gender markers) OR a notarized statement from a physician certifying your gender transition.

Kansas requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

Changing Your Legal Name

• Resource: Adult Name Change (No Marriage or Divorce)

Start the formal request to the district court by completing and filing the Civil Cover Sheet and the Petition for Change of Name.

Subject to the court’s discretion, you may need to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper in your county, by certified mail, or both.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Kansas Office of Vital Statistics to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Kansas birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• certified copy of your name-change court order
• cover letter stating the information you would like updated
• completed Application to Amend
  • copy of the front and back of a current legal photo ID
  • payment of an application fee(s) 
  • self-addressed stamped envelope
• Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.Updating Gender Markers 
  

  HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

  Submit a request to the Kansas Office of Vital Statistics to amend your birth certificate.

  You will need to provide one of the following: 

  • amended US Passport showing updated gender marker
  • front and back of driver’s license showing updated gender marker 
  • medical certification issued by your healthcare provider or mental health professional (proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required) 

  To apply for an updated Kansas birth certificate, you will need to provide it in person or by mail:

  • notarized affidavit requesting to amend the birth certificate 
  • documentary evidence of gender transition (listed above) 
  • completed Application to Amend 
  • copy of the front and back of a valid government-issued photo ID
  • payment of an application fee(s) 
  • self-addressed stamped envelope

  Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a Kansas DMV office within ten (10) days of your name change. 

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration and request a new Social Security card before you can change your name on a Kansas-issued ID. 

You must provide a certified copy of your name-change court order and any other required documents, including an existing driver’s license (if any), and payment of an application fee(s). 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID 

You will need to provide to the Chief Driver’s License Examiner a copy of your current Kansas-issued driver’s license or identification card and one of the following: 

Medical Certification 

Must include: 

• letter requesting to change gender marker (include your full legal name, residential address, phone number, email address, and requested gender marker) 
• physician’s letter (on official letterhead) confirming you meet the state’s medical requirements (proof of gender affirmation surgery not required) 

Court Order Certifying Gender Transition 

• You may submit a court order (original or certified copy) that recognizes your gender transition. 
• This option is typically applicable to people who have obtained court orders outside of Kansas. 

Birth Certificate with Updated Gender Marker 

• You may submit a certified copy of your Kansas birth certificate showing an updated gender marker.  
• You will also need to provide a copy of the physician’s statement that was used to amend your birth certificate. 

If your request is approved, you will receive a letter from the Chief Driver’s License Examiner authorizing the gender marker change. 

Bring this letter to any Kansas driver’s licensing exam site to update your Kansas driver’s license or state ID card.

Kentucky asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are several forms of ID you can use.

If you do not have or are unable to provide an acceptable form of ID, you may cast a ballot by signing a sworn “Voter Affirmation Form” and providing an acceptable supporting document.

Check here for a full rundown of Kentucky’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s District Court to change your name in Kentucky. If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

KENTUCKY BIRTH CERTIFICATE

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Kentucky birth certificate.

KENTUCKY DRIVER’S LICENSE or STATE ID

You must update the name on your Kentucky driver’s license or state ID within 10 days of legally changing your name. You will need to update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Kentucky.

You will need to provide your updated Social Security card (showing a new name) AND an acceptable supporting document demonstrating your name change. Examples include an amended birth certificate or a certified copy of your name change court order.

It’s recommended that you contact your local Circuit Clerk’s office or Driver Licensing Regional Office to confirm additional application requirements.

You will need to contact the state’s Office of Vital Statistics in order to update the gender marker on your Kentucky birth certificate.

You will need to provide OVS with a notarized letter signed by a physician confirming that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery. The requirements for this letter are not explicitly defined by law.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Kentucky, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To update the gender marker on a Kentucky driver’s license or state ID card, you must provide one of the following documents:

• Updated birth certificate (showing amended gender marker)
• Certified copy of court order changing gender
• 10 year Passport showing changed gender
• Letter from surgeon stating that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery

It’s recommended that you contact your local Circuit Clerk’s office or Driver Licensing Regional Office to confirm additional application requirements.

Louisiana asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

If you are a registered voter and do not have an acceptable form of ID, you can complete and sign a Voter Identification Affidavit, subject to challenge by the Louisiana Secretary of State.

Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your parish court to change your name in Louisiana. Each parish has its own policies for filing a name-change petition. It’s recommended that you contact your parish’s Clerk of Court to find out what will be required.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Louisiana birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Louisiana.

Louisiana’s Vital Records Registry must receive a court order certifying your gender change before you can apply to update the gender marker on your birth certificate.

To obtain this court order, you will need to provide the court with proof that you have undergone gender-affirming surgery. If the court approves your request, a copy of the judgment will be sent to Louisiana’s Vital Records Registry within 10 days.

If you have a court order certifying your gender transition that you obtained outside of the state, you will still need to file for a judgment from a Louisiana court before the Vital Records Registry will accept it.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Louisiana, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You must apply in person at an OMV office to update the gender marker on your Louisiana license or state ID. You will need to provide a signed physician’s statement certifying that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Maine, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s Probate Court to change your name in Maine. The process, requirements, and difficulty to obtain this court order vary by county. 

You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a local newspaper for a specific period of time. It is possible that this requirement can be waived for your safety.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

You are required to inform other organizations and branches of government, generally within 30 days of the date your name change takes effect. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Maine Vital Records Office to amend your birth certificate.

To apply for an amended Maine birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized application form 
• Request to Amend a Vital Record 
• copy of valid photo ID
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Maine Vital Records Office to amend your birth certificate.

Maine allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their birth certificates.

To apply for an amended Maine birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized application form 
• a signed declaration by a qualified healthcare professional 
• copy of valid photo Id
• payment of applicable fees 
• name-change request form and court order (if applicable) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update the name on your Maine driver’s license or state ID within 30 days of legally changing your name.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Maine-issued ID.

You will need to provide your current state-issued ID and documentation to demonstrate your legal name change (for example name-change court order). 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID 

Maine allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification is required.

Visit the BMV office to update the gender marker on your Maine driver’s license or state ID. You will need to provide a completed Gender Designation Form and a current state-issued ID.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Maryland, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s circuit court to change your name in Maryland. 

You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a general-circulation newspaper in your county for a specific period of time. You may request that the court order waive this requirement.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Maryland’s Department of Health to change the name on your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Maryland birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• certified copy of name-change court order 
• copy of valid government-issued photo ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Maryland’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated Maine birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed application form 
• a signed statement from a licensed health care practitioner (listed in the application fact sheet) or a certified copy of sex-change court order
• copy of valid government-issued photo ID 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update the name on your Maryland driver’s license or state ID within 30 days of legally changing your name.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Maryland-issued ID.

Visit a full-service MVA office and apply for a corrected license or state ID. You will need to provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change and your current state-issued ID. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Maryland allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification or documentation is required.

Visit a full-service MVA office to update the gender marker on your Maryland-issued ID. 

You will be able to self-designate a gender marker when you apply for a new or replacement driver’s license or state ID.

Registered voters in Massachusetts generally do not need to show ID to vote in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s Probate and Family Court to change your name in Massachusetts. 

You will need to post public notice of your name change. This requirement can be waived for good cause.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

You cannot correct your Massachusetts birth certificate solely for a legal change of name. See below for information about updating your birth certificate’s name and gender marker. 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics to correct your birth certificate

To apply for a Massachusetts amended birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Applicant Affidavit form 
• notarized Physician’s Statement 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Massachusetts-issued ID.

If you are applying for a REAL ID driver’s license or state ID, you must visit an RMV Service Center and provide acceptable documentation demonstrating all legal name changes. 

If you are applying for a Standard driver’s license or state ID, name-change documentation is not required “as long as there is no attempt to defraud.” 

Make an appointment to visit an RMV Service Center and complete an application form (indicate a change of information).

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Massachusetts allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification is required.

To change the gender marker on your Massachusetts driver’s license or state ID, make an appointment to visit an RMV Service Center. 

Michigan asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. If you are a registered voter and do not bring or do not have an acceptable photo ID, you can still vote a regular ballot by signing an affidavit.

Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with a family division of a circuit court to change your name in Michigan. If you are aged 22 years or older, you will need to be fingerprinted by state police as part of the name change process.

You will also need to publish notice of your name change in the newspaper for a specific amount of time. The court has the option to waive this requirement and seal records with good cause.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Michigan birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You can apply for an updated Michigan birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Vital Records office.

You will need to sign Michigan Vital Record’s Sex Designation Form or submit a court order determining sex designation

NOTE: If you were born outside of Michigan, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your Michigan driver’s license or state ID by visiting a Secretary of State branch office and submitting a completed “Sex Designation Form.”

Additional medical documentation is not required.

Once you complete the form, go to your local SOS office to submit it and pay the correction fee. You must do this in person. Be sure to bring your current ID or license with you. The fee is $9 to correct a driver’s license and $10 for a state ID. Your new ID photo will be taken when you submit your form.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Minnesota, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county court to change your name in Minnesota. 

You will need to bring two adult witnesses to your hearing as proof of your identity. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Minnesota’s Department of Health to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Minnesota birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• notarized Birth Record Amendment Application form 
• certified copy of name-change court order 
• required supporting documents (listed in DOH Amendment Birth Record Amendment Packet) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Minnesota’s Department of Health to amend your birth certificate.

To update the gender marker on your Minnesota birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized Birth Record Amendment Application form 
• required supporting documents (listed in DOH Amendment Birth Record Amendment Packet) – including one of the following: 
  • physician’s letter certifying you have received “appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition” 
  • certified copy of court order directing the amendment of birth certificate gender marker 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable)  
• payment of an applicable fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration 24-48 business hours before you can change your name on a Minnesota-issued ID. 

Visit a DVS office to change the name on your Minnesota driver’s license or state ID card. You must apply for a duplicate or renewal license and provide a certified copy of your name-change court order. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Minnesota allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification or documentation is required.

You will be able to self-designate a gender marker when you apply for a new or replacement driver’s license or state ID. 

You may apply online or at a DVS office; however, you must visit in person if you are applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID.

Mississippi requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

Changing Your Legal Name 

COURT ORDER 

You must file a formal request with your county’s Chancery Court to change your name in Mississippi. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Contact Mississippi’s Vital Records office to change the name on your birth certificate. You may call the office at 601-206-8200 or email [email protected].

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born. 

Updating Gender Markers 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Contact Mississippi’s Vital Records office to update the gender marker on your birth certificate. You may call the office at 601-206-8200 or email [email protected].

Mississippi will issue an amended birth certificate upon receipt of a certified court order directing it to do so and a signed physician’s statement that confirms you meet the state’s medical requirements.

The process of obtaining the court order to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate varies by court. 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Mississippi-issued ID.

Visit your Department of Public Safety office to change the name on your state-issued identification. 

You will need to provide all of the following: 

• certified name-change court order 
• additional proof of identification showing your new name: driver’s license; state ID; amended birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Social Security card showing the new name. Secondary documents must display proof of state residency, such as a bank statement, utility bill, or employer ID card.
• driver’s license or state ID (will be destroyed) 
• payment of an application fee(s)

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Mississippi does not have a legal provision for updating the gender marker on your driver’s license or state ID Card. The process for doing so is not clearly defined. 

You will need to provide the state’s Department of Public Safety with legal documents demonstrating your gender transition. You must first amend your birth certificate, which requires court orders and medical documentation.

Missouri asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are limited options for casting your ballot without one. There are several forms of ID you can use, including options without a photo.

Click below for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with the court to change your name in Missouri.

You will need to publish notice of your name change in the newspaper for a specific amount of time. This requirement may be waived for victims of domestic violence or child abuse.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Missouri driver’s license or state ID.

Before you can update the gender marker on your Missouri birth certificate, you must first successfully complete the process to legally change your name.

You can apply for an updated Missouri birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Bureau of Vital Records.

Your application materials must include a certified copy of a court order directing the state to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate. Missouri requires this court order to indicate that you have legally changed your name AND have undergone gender-affirming surgery.

The process of obtaining a court order to amend your birth certificate varies by court. This includes what documents you are required to provide to the court as proof of surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Missouri, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can update the gender marker on your Missouri driver’s license or ID card by visiting a license office and submitting a completed “Gender Designation Change Request” form. The form must be signed by a medical or social service provider, but proof of gender-affirmation surgery is not required.

You may present an acceptable form of ID instead of a completed Gender Designation Change Request. Examples include proof of gender-affirmation surgery, an updated birth certificate (with amended gender marker), a U.S. Passport (with amended gender marker), or a court order certifying gender change (may be part of a court-ordered name change).

You may be asked to provide additional documentation to determine your eligibility. This requirement is not clearly defined by state law.

Voter ID

Montana requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

Changing Your Legal Name 

COURT ORDER 

You must file a formal request with your county’s District Court to change your name in Montana.

You will be required to publish notice of your name-change hearing for a specific period of time. If necessary for your safety, use the Changing Your Name under Sealed-Record Forms instead.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Montana Office of Vital Statistics to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Montana birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• birth certificate application 
• proof of identification (suggestions listed on application)
• the application requires that you provide an enlarged legible photocopy of both sides of your valid driver’s license (or other legal picture identification with a signature) or you must have your application notarized 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Updating Gender Markers 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

The requirements for changing the gender marker on a Montana birth certificate are currently subject to a court challenge.

• CNN reported on April 22 that due to the preliminary injunction “Montanans wishing to change the sex designations on their birth certificates can continue doing so by submitting to Montana’s Department of Public Health and Human Services ‘a completed gender-designation form attesting to gender transition or providing government-issued identification displaying the correct sex designation or providing a certified court order indicating a gender change.’ 
• A local news station reported on April 29 that staff was not providing people with the form and that DPHHS legal department was “still reviewing” the judge’s decision. 
• The gender-designation form that was used before the 2021 law is no longer available on the DPHHS website.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Montana-issued ID.

Visit an MVD’s License Exam Station. Complete the driver’s license or ID card application and provide a certified copy of your name-change court order. You may also apply for a replacement driver’s license or state ID that shows your name change.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Montana does not have a clear policy or procedure for updating the gender marker on your driver’s license or state ID. 

You may be able to change the gender marker on your Montana-issued ID by visiting an MVD’s License Exam Station and providing: 

• certified copy of the court order certifying your gender transition
• letter of support from a therapist or physician (If you do not have a court order changing your gender, providing letters of support from both a therapist and a physician may speed up the process.)

No Voter ID Law.

You must file a formal request with your county’s probate court to change your name in Nebraska. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Nebraska birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update the name on your Nebraska driver’s license or state ID within 60 days of legally changing your name.

You can apply for an updated Nebraska birth certificate by submitting a request to the state’s Vital Records Office.

Your application materials must include an affidavit issued by your physician’s office that confirms you have undergone gender-affirming surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Nebraska, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To update the gender marker on your Nebraska driver’s license or state ID, submit a completed DMV form signed by a certified medical professional that confirms you have met the state’s medical requirements. Certified medical professionals include physicians, physician’s assistants, and advanced practice nurses.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Nevada, except for some first-time voters

You must file a formal request with your county’s circuit court to change your name in Nevada. 

Publishing notice is not required if you are changing your name to conform with your gender identity. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

Submit a request to Nevada’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated Nevada birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• Affidavit for Corrections of Record with notarized signature 
• certified copy of name-change court order or other verifiable evidence OR
• notarized supplemental affidavit completed by an individual who has personal knowledge and swears to the corrections being requested
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Nevada allows residents to mark female, male, or X on their birth certificates. Medical certification of a gender change is not required.

Submit a request to Nevada’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated Nevada birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• Affidavit for Corrections of Record with notarized signature 
• notarized supplemental affidavit completed by an individual who has personal knowledge (a friend, family member, professional contact, or medical provider) and swears to the corrections being requested OR other verifiable evidence including a certified copy of name-change court order from any state in the U.S.
• copy of the original birth certificate (if available) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were bor

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration at least two business days before you can change it on a Nevada-issued ID. 

Visit a DMV office to change the name on your Nevada driver’s license or state ID. Bring any current state-issued ID and the original legal documents which authorize your name change with you in order to apply for a new or replacement ID.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Nevada allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification or documentation is required.

Visit a DMV office to apply for a new or replacement driver’s license or state ID. You will be able to self-designate a gender marker on the application form regardless of the gender on other documents submitted.

New Hampshire asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are several forms of ID you can use.

If you do not present a photo ID that is approved or otherwise verified by an election official, you can execute a challenged voter affidavit and cast your ballot.

Click below for a full rundown of New Hampshire’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s court to change your name in New Hampshire. Publishing notice of your name change is generally not required, but this is subject to the court’s discretion.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your New Hampshire birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update the name on your New Hampshire driver’s license or state ID within 30 days of legally changing your name.

You can apply for an updated New Hampshire birth certificate by submitting a request to the Clerk of the city or town where you were born.

Your application materials must include a certified copy of a court order directing the City or Town Clerk to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate.

You need to make an appointment at the DMV to change the gender marker on your New Hampshire driver’s license or ID card. Complete a driver’s license application, check the box for “Replacement,” and indicate “gender change” as the reason.

Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in New Jersey, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s circuit court to change your name in New Jersey. 

You will be required to publish a notice in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to New Jersey’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated New Jersey birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• letter requesting that your birth certificate be amended to reflect your name change 
• copy of your original birth certificate 
• certified copy of your name-change court order 
• payment of an applicable fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

New Jersey allows residents to mark female, male, or undesignated/non-binary on their birth certificates. Medical certification is not required.

Submit a request to New Jersey’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated New Jersey birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Request Form and Attestation 
• copy of your original birth certificate 
• copy of government-issued ID 
• payment of applicable fees 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must visit your local MVC within two weeks of changing your name (and after updating your name with the Social Security Administration) to update the name on your New Jersey license or state ID card.  

Name and gender can be updated separately or at the same time, and you can update one or both. 

You will need to provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

New Jersey allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification or documentation is required.

Visit an MVC Licensing Center and provide a completed Declaration of Gender Change Form. You must surrender your current driver’s license or identification card and obtain a New Jersey license or state ID with your updated information. 

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in New Mexico, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s district court to change your name in New Mexico. 

You will be required to publish notice for a specific period of time. This requirement can be waived for your safety. 

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to New Mexico’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

You may request to change the legal name on your New Mexico birth certificate by:

• Check the appropriate box on the Request to Change Gender Designation on a Birth Certificate form – Your signature on the completed form must be notarized!   
• submitting a notarized affidavit to amend a vital record 

You will also need to provide: 

• completed Birth Record Search Application 
• certified copy of name-change court order 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

New Mexico allows residents to mark female, male, or X on their birth certificates. Medical certification is not required.

Submit a completed and notarized Request to Change Gender Designation on a Birth Certificate form to New Mexico’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate.

You will also need to provide: 

• completed Birth Record Search Application 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a full-service MVD office to update the name on your New Mexico license or state ID card. You will need to provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

New Mexico allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification or documentation is required.

Visit a MVD Office and provide a completed Request for Sex Designation Change form to update your New Mexico driver’s license or state ID. 

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in New York, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your local court to change your name in New York. 

You will be required to publish a notice in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

New York City issues birth certificates separately from New York State. 

If you were born in New York City, submit a request to the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to update your birth certificate. 

If you were born in a county outside of New York City, submit a request to New York’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate. 

To update a birth certificate issued by New York City, you will need to provide: 

• completed Birth Certificate Correction Application Form 
• unexpired, signed photo ID; if mailed, copy of front and back  
• certified copy and one photocopy of a name-change court order
• If mailing: self-addressed, stamped envelope 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

To update a birth certificate issued by New York State, you will need to provide: 

• Application for Correction of Certificate of Birth 
• notarized Affidavit of Gender Error – if applicable 
• certified copy of the current birth certificate
• certified copy of name-change court order  
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

New York City issues birth certificates separately from New York State. 

If you were born in New York City, submit a request to the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to update your birth certificate. 

If you were born in a county outside of New York City, submit a request to New York’s Department of Health to update your birth certificate. 

To update a birth certificate issued by New York City, you will need to provide:

• completed Birth Certificate Correction Application Form 
• notarized Self-Attestation Form unexpired, signed photo ID; if mailed, copy of front and back  
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable) 
• payment of an application fee(s)

To update a birth certificate issued by New York State, you will need to provide: 

• Application for Correction of Certificate of Birth 
• notarized Affidavit of Gender Error 
• certified copy of the current birth certificate
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a New York State-issued ID.

Visit a DMV office to update the name on your New York State driver’s license or state ID card. You will need to apply for a new license and provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change. 

For a standard driver’s license or non-driver ID card (which does not meet REAL ID requirements), this process may be completed by mail. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a DMV office to update the gender marker on your New York State license or state ID card. 

You currently need to provide a physician’s letter, medical testimony, or court order confirming your predominant gender. Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required.

This policy is set to change on June 24, 2022. After that date, you will be able to self-designate your gender marker (without documentation) and select ‘X’ as a marker on your New York State-issued license or ID. 

New York City residents may apply for a New York Municipal ID Card. You may self-designate your gender marker on your ID application – the options are male, female, x, or no gender listed.

North Carolina’s voter ID law is currently being litigated.

Click below for more information on voter ID in North Carolina.

You must file a formal request with the circuit court to change your name in North Carolina. You will be required to undergo a state and federal background check and get your fingerprints taken at the Sheriff’s office.

You will also need to publish notice of your name change application in a newspaper for a specific period of time. This requirement may be waived if you provide proof that you are a victim of domestic abuse, stalking, or a sexual offense.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your North Carolina Carolina birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You will need to update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by North Carolina.

You can apply for an updated North Carolina birth certificate by mailing a written request and a completed application form to the state’s Vital Records office. Your application materials must include one of the following:

• notarized physician’s statement certifying that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery
• court order certifying your gender transition issued by an out-of-state court

NOTE: If you were born outside of North Carolina, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your North Carolina driver’s license or state ID by visiting a DMV office and submitting a completed “Sex Designation Form.” The form must be signed by a physician, physician’s assistant, therapist, counselor, psychologist, case worker, or social worker.

North Dakota requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Click here for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s court to change your name in North Dakota.

You will need to publish notice of your name change application in a newspaper for a specific period of time. This requirement can be waived for individuals who are only seeking to change their first name and for survivors of domestic violence.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your North Dakota birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

In practice, the North Dakota Health Department will update your birth certificate if you submit a physician’s signed statement that indicates you have received appropriate medical care for your gender transition. This is different from North Dakota’s regulations that ask for proof of gender affirmation surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of North Dakota, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You must apply in person to change the gender marker on your North Dakota driver’s license or state ID. You will be required to submit a signed physician’s statement that uses specific language to confirm that you meet the state’s medical requirements.

Voter ID

Ohio requires you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

Changing Your Legal Name 

COURT ORDER 

You must file a formal request with your county’s Probate Court to change your name in Ohio. You need to live in a county for at least one year before you can change your name in its court.

You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time. This requirement can be waived for your safety.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Ohio’s Department of Health to amend your birth certificate.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name-change court order unless the court chooses to send it directly to the Ohio Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics office.  

Contact the Bureau of Vital Statistics at 614-466-2531 or [email protected] for more information.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Updating Gender Markers 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Obtain an Order for the Correction of Birth Record from your local probate court. The process, requirements, and difficulty to obtain this court order vary by county.

• Resource: Name & Gender Change Guide for Ohio Residents 
• Resource: Name & Gender Change Legal Clinic

If your Order for the Correction of Birth Records is granted by an Ohio probate court, it will automatically be sent to the state’s Department of Health and your birth certificate will be updated. 

Out-of-state applicants may obtain an order from their local court and mail the original copy to Ohio’s Bureau of Vital Statistics.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit an Ohio BMV office and present: 

• your current driver’s license or ID card 
• certified copy of your name-change court order 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Mail a completed Declaration of Gender Change form to the Ohio Department of Public Safety (address listed on the form). 

The declaration must be signed by a qualified physician or a licensed psychologist/therapist. 

If gender identification is marked as “transitional” on your Declaration of Gender Change form, a new form must be submitted for each driver’s license/ID renewal until gender transition is complete. If the form is not submitted at renewal, the gender marker will revert to the original gender.

Oklahoma asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are several forms of ID you can use, including options without a photo.

If you are a registered voter but do not present a valid ID at the polling place, you may cast a provisional ballot and sign an affidavit.

Click here for a full rundown of Oklahoma’s rules.

You must file a formal request with a state district court or tribal court to change your name in Oklahoma.

You may be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific amount of time. The court has the option to waive this requirement and seal records with good cause.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You must notify Oklahoma’s Department of Public Safety in writing within 10 days of legally changing your name. You will need to provide supporting documents to demonstrate your name change, options include a certified copy of your name change court order or an amended birth certificate.

Oklahoma does not have a specific legal provision for updating the gender marker on your birth certificate.

If you submit a court order certifying your gender transition, the state’s Office of Vital Records is likely to issue you an updated birth certificate.

The Oklahoma Department of Health does not require physician’s statement to update the gender marker on your birth certificate – but some judges may require one to issue a the necessary court order.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Oklahoma, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To update the gender marker on your Oklahoma driver’s license or state ID, you must provide a notarized physician’s statement certifying that you have undergone gender affirmation surgery.

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Oregon, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER 

Note: If you were born in Oregon, you can update the legal name on your birth certificate without a name-change court order. 

You must file a formal request with your county’s circuit court to change your name in Oregon.

Using the same form (where you certify having “undergone surgical, hormonal, or other appropriate treatment for the purpose of affirming gender identity”), you can request a gender-change Judgment in any circuit court in Oregon. If you are also asking for a name change, you can file for both at the same time in any circuit court in Oregon. 

If the court approves your name change, you can contact the court to secure a copy of your official name-change Judgment that can be used to update your name and/or gender on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Oregon’s Office of Vital Statistics to update your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated Oregon birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized application form or certified copy of name-change court Judgment
• completed Birth Record Order Form 
• photocopy of valid ID (listed on the order form) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Oregon’s Office of Vital Statistics to update your birth certificate. 

To apply for an updated Oregon birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized application form or certified copy of gender transition (and name change, if applicable) court Judgment 
• completed Birth Record Order Form
• photocopy of valid ID (listed on the order form) 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on an Oregon-issued ID.

Visit a DMV office to change the name on your Oregon driver’s license or state ID. To apply for a new or replacement ID, bring a certified copy of your legal name change as well as proof of your identity and address including any current state-issued ID.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Oregon allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification or documentation is required.

Visit a DMV office to update the gender marker on your Oregon driver’s license or state ID. Bring any current state-issued ID with you. 

You will be able to self-designate a gender marker when you apply for a new or replacement driver’s license or state ID.

Voter ID

Registered voters in Pennsylvania must confirm their identity when they vote at their polling place for the first time. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

Court Order

You must file a formal request with your county’s Court of Common Pleas to change your name in Pennsylvania. Some counties require name change applicants to use the forms provided by their county’s court, so check with your local court clerk or Prothonotary’s office to make sure you’re following the proper filing procedures.

You will be required to publish notice of the court hearing for your name change in two newspapers for a specific period of time. This requirement can be waived (and court records sealed) for your safety.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Pennsylvania’s Department of Public Health to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Pennsylvania birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized birth certificate correction form certified copy of name-change court order 
• copy of current government-issued photo ID; otherwise, two current documents that verify your name and current address
• payment of an application fee(s)

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Pennsylvania’s Division of Vital Records to amend your birth certificate.

You will need to provide a physician’s statement (on letterhead) confirming that you have received “appropriate” medical care for your gender transition.

To apply for an updated Pennsylvania birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized birth certificate correction form
• letter from the attending physician who is providing the appropriate clinical treatment for your gender transition 
• copy of current government-issued photo ID or two current documents that verify your name and current address
• payment of an application fee(s)

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a Pennsylvania Driver License Center and provide a certified copy of your name-change court order.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID 

Pennsylvania allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued ID. No medical certification is required.

To update the gender marker on your state-issued ID, visit a Pennsylvania Driver License Center and submit: 

• completed Request for Gender Change form
• application for ID 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable)

If you do not show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person, the Board of Canvassers will compare the signature on your ballot to your signature on file to determine if your ballot will count. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER 

You must file a formal request with the Probate Court to change your name in Rhode Island. Your signature must be notarized, and a certified copy of your birth certificate attached.

You will need to undergo a Bureau of Criminal Investigation check as part of the name-change process. 

Subject to the court’s discretion, you may need to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a set period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Rhode Island’s Office of Vital Records office to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Rhode Island birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• completed application form 
• certified copy of your name-change court order 
• government-issued photo ID such as your driver’s license, state ID, US passport, military ID, or certificate of naturalization
• payment of an application fee(s) 

You will receive an affidavit in the mail that you will need to sign in a notary’s presence.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Rhode Island allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their birth certificates.

Submit a request to Rhode Island’s Department of Health to amend your birth certificate.

Contact the Rhode Island Health Department and request that the Office of Vital Records prepares an affidavit for you to sign. This statement must also be signed and notarized by a Health Department staff member.

You will also need to provide:

• completed application form 
• copy of government-issued photo ID such as your driver’s license, state ID, US passport, military ID, or certificate of naturalization
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration 24-48 business hours before you can change your name on a Rhode Island driver’s license or state ID card.

Visit a Rhode Island DMV branch location and bring:

• current state-issued ID 
• certified copy of your name-change court order
• acceptable “proof of identity” document showing your correct name
• payment of an application fee(s)

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Rhode Island allows residents to select M, F, or X for their state-issued IDs. No medical certification is required.

Note: The state currently lacks the technology to issue a driver’s license displaying the “X” marker.

Visit a Rhode Island DMV office and submit a completed Gender Designation form.

• Resource: Trans Vote RI

South Carolina asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

If you cannot obtain a photo ID, bring your non-photo voter registration card with you to the polls. You will be allowed to vote after signing an affidavit stating you have a reasonable impediment to obtaining an acceptable photo ID.

Click here for a full rundown of South Carolina’s rules.

You must file a formal request with Family Court to change your name in South Carolina. You will be required to undergo a state background check and get fingerprinted.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that you can use to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your South Carolina birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must notify the South Carolina DMV within 10 days of legally changing your name. You will need to update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by South Carolina.

South Carolina does not have a specific legal provision for updating the gender marker on your birth certificate.

You will need to file a request with your circuit’s Family Court and indicate that you desire to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate. You must provide testimony or a notarized statement in a proper affidavit form from a licensed physician.

Judges have discretion over granting the court orders necessary to update your birth certificate’s gender marker. Depending on your judge, a court order may be difficult to obtain or you may be asked to provide additional information (like proof of gender affirmation surgery) before your court order is issued.

You can apply for an updated South Carolina birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Vital Records office. Your application materials must include a certified copy of the court order certifying your gender transition.

NOTE: If you were born outside of South Carolina, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To change the gender marker on your South Carolina driver’s license or state ID, you will need to provide medical documentation AND a supporting document (like an updated birth certificate or certified copy of a court order) to demonstrate your gender transition.

South Dakota asks you to show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

If you are not able to present an acceptable ID, you may still vote by signing a Personal Identification Affidavit.

Click here for a full rundown of South Dakota’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county’s court to change your name in South Dakota. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your South Dakota birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by South Dakota.

South Dakota does not have a legal provision for updating your birth certificate’s gender marker and there is no procedure for doing so.

There are recent examples of people requesting to update both their name and gender markers in the same court petition – but the process, requirements, and outcomes are unclear and inconsistent.

NOTE: If you were born outside of South Dakota, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To change the gender marker on your South Dakota driver’s license or state ID, you will need to provide a certified copy of a court order certifying your gender transition OR a signed physician’s statement confirming that you meet the state’s medical requirements.

The process of obtaining a court order varies by court and the requirements are not clear.

Tennessee asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are limited exceptions for casting your ballot without one.

Click here for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your local Chancery Court to change your name in Tennessee. If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Tennessee birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Tennessee.

Updating the gender marker on your birth certificate is not possible under Tennessee law.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Tennessee, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To update the gender marker on your Tennessee driver’s license or state ID, you will need to provide a signed physician’s statement confirming that you meet the state’s medical requirements.

Texas asks you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

If you do not possess and cannot reasonably obtain an acceptable form of ID, you can cast a regular ballot if you complete the Reasonable Impediment Declaration and present a supporting form of ID.

Click here for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with your county court to change your name in Texas. You will need to be fingerprinted as part of the name change process.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents.

You must inform the state’s Department of Public Safety about your legal name change within 30 days.

If you need to update the gender marker on your Texas driver’s license, state ID, or birth certificate, you will need a court order that recognizes your gender transition AND your name change. The process of changing your gender depends on the county where you file your court petition. Different counties have different requirements.

Texas does not have a specific statute that covers changing gender markers. Not every county or judge will approve and issue the court order that is required to change your gender marker.

You may be able to use a court order issued by another state, but it must include specific language.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Texas, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

If you need to update the gender marker on your Texas driver’s license, state ID, or birth certificate, you will need a court order that recognizes your gender transition AND your name change. The process of changing your gender depends on the county where you file your court petition. Different counties have different requirements.

Texas does not have an official statewide procedure for gender marker changes. Some judges may not grant the necessary court order to update the gender marker on your Texas driver’s license or state ID. The process, requirements, and difficulty vary by county court.

Utah requires that you show an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s court to change your name in Utah. You must live in the county for one year before filing.  

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Utah’s Office of Vital Records and Statistics to amend your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Utah birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• Amendment of a Record by Court Order
• certified copy of name-change court order 
• copy of acceptable ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Utah’s Office of Vital Records and Statistics will amend the gender marker on your birth certificate if it receives a court order.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

To update the gender marker on your Utah birth certificate, you will need to provide: 

• Amendment of a Record by Court Order
• certified copy of court order to amend the gender marker
• birth certificate application 
• copy of acceptable ID 
• payment of an application fee(s) 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit the Utah Driver License office and apply for a replacement license or state ID. 

You will need to provide acceptable documentation including the certified copy of your name-change court order and your current driver’s license or state ID if any. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

The Utah Department of Public Safety website does not address changing the gender marker on your state-issued ID.

You may be able to update your Utah driver’s license or state ID by presenting a passport or birth certificate with an amended gender marker. It is possible to amend via court order. 

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote in Vermont, except for some first-time voters.

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your local probate court to change your name in Vermont.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE 

Submit a request to Vermont’s Department of Health to change the name on your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Vermont birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed application form 
• certified copy of name-change court order 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

In April 2022, Vermont passed a law that will simplify the process of changing the gender marker on a Vermont birth certificate and allow a non-binary option. The law goes into effect on July 1, 2022. Please check back here or with the Vermont Vital Records Office for more information about the new process.

Submit a request to Vermont’s Department of Health to amend your birth certificate.

To amend the gender marker on your Vermont birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• Completed application form 
• Certified copy of the original birth certificate
• Physician affidavit confirming that you have received “appropriate” treatment for your gender transition

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a driver’s licensing office and provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Vermont allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their state-issued IDs. No medical certification is required. 

You may self-designate a gender marker on your application for a new or replacement driver’s license or state ID.

Registered voters in Virginia need to confirm their identity when they vote in person. There are several forms of identification you can use. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county or city Circuit Court to change your name in Virginia. 

You must live in a county for at least six months before you can change your name in its court.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents. 

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Virginia’s Office of Vital Records to amend your birth certificate. 

Complete a Birth Certificate Amendment Request form (available here) and send it to the state’s Office of Vital Records with a copy of your identification, your birth certificate (or an Application for Certification for a Birth Record), and payment of the applicable fee(s).

The office will respond with the requirements for completing your request. 

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to Virginia’s Office of Vital Records to amend your birth certificate.

To apply for an updated Virginia birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• completed Application for Birth Certificate 
• completed Birth Certificate Amendment Request form
• Gender Designation Form completed and signed by a healthcare provider
• copy of valid ID
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable)
• payment of an application fee(s)  

Proof of gender affirmation surgery is not required. 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Visit a Virginia DMV office, apply for a new ID, and provide acceptable documentation demonstrating your legal name change.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Virginia allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their driver’s license or state ID card. No medical certification is required. 

To update the gender marker on your Virginia-issued identification:  

• request a replacement license or ID card from the Virginia DMV
• select the appropriate gender marker on your Application Form 

The gender marker you select to appear on your Virginia identification does not need to match the marker on your other identity documents.

Registered voters in Washington must confirm their identity by either signing a ballot declaration or providing valid photo identification if they choose to vote in person. Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

COURT ORDER

You must file a formal request with your county’s District Court, which will provide a Petition for Name Change and an Order for Name Change for you to complete in order to change your name.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Washington State Department of Health to correct your birth certificate.

To change the name on your Washington birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• certified copy of name-change court order 

AND ONE of the following:

• Completed Request Form
• Letter with required information from current birth certificate 
• Photocopy of a certified copy of the current birth certificate 
• Payment of application fee(s)

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON A BIRTH CERTIFICATE

Submit a request to the Washington State Department of Health to correct your birth certificate.

Washington allows residents to mark M, F, or X on their birth certificates.

To apply for a corrected Washington birth certificate, you will need to provide:

• notarized Sex Designation Change request form 
• certified copy of name-change court order (if applicable)
• order form/payment for a certified copy (if applicable) 

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born

HOW TO CHANGE NAME ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration and request a new Social Security card before you can change your name on a Washington driver’s license or state ID card

Make an appointment to visit a driver licensing office and bring:

• your new Social Security card with your updated name
• certified copy of your name-change court order
• payment of an application fee(s)

HOW TO UPDATE THE GENDER MARKER ON DRIVER’S LICENSE OR STATE ID

Complete a Change of Gender Designation Request Form (available here).  

You may either: 

• Visit a driver licensing office location. You need to bring your completed request form and current state-issued ID.

West Virginia asks that you present an acceptable ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. There are several forms of ID you can use, including options without a photo. If you don’t bring your ID, there might be other ways to confirm your identity and cast a ballot that counts.

Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules.

You must file a formal request with the court to change your name in West Virginia. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your West Virginia birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by West Virginia.

NOTE: The West Virginia DMV recommends calling to confirm what documents you need to bring to change your name on your driver’s license or state ID.

You can apply for an updated West Virginia birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Vital Registration Office.

Your application materials must include a certified copy of the court order certifying your gender transition. It is likely you will need to provide medical documentation to receive a court order.

NOTE: If you were born outside of West Virginia, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your West Virginia driver’s license or state ID by visiting an DMV office and submitting a completed “Gender Designation Form” that is signed by a licensed physician.

NOTE: DMV employees cannot request additional gender-related information (beyond what’s required by the Gender Designation Form) or ask questions about your private medical history or records.

Wisconsin requires you to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person. Click here for more information on Wisconsin’s voter ID requirements.

You must file a formal request with the circuit court to change your name in Wisconsin. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time. This requirement can be waived for your safety.
If you were born in Wisconsin and file to change your name in a Wisconsin court, you may request to change the name on your state-issued birth certificate as part of your name change court petition.
If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on your state-issued ID. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Wisconsin.

You will need to contact the state’s Office of Vital Records in order to update the gender marker on your Wisconsin birth certificate.

You must submit proof you have undergone gender affirmation surgery. What you are required to provide as proof is not explicitly defined by law.

To change the gender marker on your Wisconsin-issued driver’s license or state ID, you must visit a DMV customer service center and submit a signed statement from a license physician OR a certified copy of court order that certifies your gender transition.

Registered voters in Wyoming need to confirm their identity when they vote in person. There are several forms of identification you can use.

A copy of your ID is not required to vote by mail, except for some first-time voters.

Click here to learn more about Wyoming’s Voter ID laws.

You must file a formal request with your county’s District Court to change your name in Wyoming. You will be required to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper for a specific period of time.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to change the name on your other documents. You will need to provide a certified copy of your name change court order to update the name on your Wyoming birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change it on a driver’s license or state ID issued by Wyoming.

You can apply for an updated Wyoming birth certificate by mailing a request to the state’s Center for Health Statistics.

Your application materials must include a certified copy of a court order certifying your gender transition and directing the state to amend the gender marker on your birth certificate. You will need to provide proof that you have undergone gender-affirmation surgery.

NOTE: If you were born outside of Wyoming, you need to update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You can change the gender marker on your Wyoming driver’s license or state ID by visiting a DMV office and submitting a completed “Gender Designation Change Request” form that is signed by a licensed physician OR social services provider.