Historic Step in Implementing the Gender Recognition Act Takes Effect in Time for Pride Month
Supports State's Effort to Remove Barriers for Transgender and Non-Binary New Yorkers
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New Yorkers will have the option to choose "X" as a gender marker on their driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID card at all Department of Motor Vehicle offices statewide. This change is being implemented in accordance with the State's Gender Recognition Act, which goes into effect on June 24. This landmark legislation provides expanded protections for transgender and non-binary New Yorkers through this change at the DMV and by making it easier for people to change their names, change their sex designation and change their birth certificates to reflect their identity.
"As we prepare to celebrate Pride Month in a few days, I am excited to announce this historic change that represents another victory in our fight to help ensure equality and respect for the LGBTQ+ community," Governor Hochul said. "Every person, regardless of their gender identity or expression, deserves to have an identity document that reflects who they are. My administration remains committed to ensuring that New York is a place of value, love and belonging for members of the LGBTQ+ community."
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "Perhaps more than any other state agency, New Yorkers directly engage with their government through the DMV, so offering identity documents that are representative of all New Yorkers is a significant milestone. We are thrilled to implement this new option that we know will have a positive impact on the lives of so many of our customers."
Division of Human Rights Commissioner Maria Imperial said, "We applaud our state's important action to ensure that these essential ID documents accurately reflect and affirm who we are. We will continue working to advance dignity and eliminate discrimination against transgender and non-binary people in New York State."
Deputy Chief Diversity Officer Priya Nair said, "As a transgender and non-binary New Yorker, this action means that I can now get a driver license that better reflects my identity. It's not only the correct gender marker, but it's also an action which demonstrates that New York State affirms and sees me for who I am. Thank you to Governor Hochul, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and all of the non-binary and transgender advocates who pushed for this important and inclusive change. As other states attack and roll back protections for transgender people, I am proud to live in a state that will continue to fight for our communities."
New Yorkers who have an existing driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID will have the option to change the gender marker on their photo ID from "M" or "F" to "X", and those who are applying for a NYS photo ID for the first time will have the option to choose "X". This can be done by completing the Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (MV-44).
Customers who do not want to visit a DMV office to change their existing ID document will have the option to change their gender designation through an online transaction beginning in July 2022.
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