NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – New Yorkers can now choose an “X” gender marker on their state driver's license and ID cards, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday.
“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,” Hochul said in a statement.
“Every person, regardless of their gender identity or expression, deserves to have an identity document that reflects who they are,” the governor continued.
New Yorkers who have an existing driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID will have the option to change the gender marker on the photo ID from "M" or "F" to "X", and those who are applying for a New York State photo ID for the first time will have the option to choose “X.”
The change can be made at all Department of Motor Vehicle locations statewide. People who do not want to visit a DMV office to change their existing ID will have the option to change their gender designation through an online transaction beginning in July 2022, officials said.
The change is being implemented in accordance with the state’s Gender Recognition Act, which goes into effect on June 24. Officials said the legislation will make it easier for people to change their names, sex designation and birth certificates to reflect their identity.
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