If you need to change the gender marker on your passport, the process is straightforward but requires specific documents. This guide will help you understand the steps involved, whether changing your name or updating the gender marker.
Step 1: Determine the Correct Passport Application Form
The form you need to fill out depends on your current passport status:
- Form DS-11: This form is required if you are applying for your first passport, if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or if your last one was issued more than 15 years ago. You must apply in person using this form.
- Form DS-82: Use this form to renew a passport that is still valid or has expired within the last five years. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can complete it by mail.
- Form DS-5504: If your passport was issued within the last year and you need a correction, such as a gender marker change, you can use this form. This form is also used for data errors and some limited name changes.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To update your gender marker, you will need the following documents:
- Current Passport: If you have a valid passport, you will need to submit it with your application. If you do not have a passport, a birth or naturalization certificate can be used as proof of citizenship.
- Proof of Gender Change: You must provide a signed letter from a licensed physician stating that you have undergone appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition. The letter must be on the physician’s official letterhead and include their license number. The U.S. Department of State does not require surgery to change the gender marker.
- Proof of Identity: A valid driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or another government-issued identification document is required. If your ID does not match your new gender identity, you may need additional supporting documents.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship: You must provide evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previous passport.
- Passport Photo: A new passport photo is required. The photo must meet the official passport photo guidelines, such as a white background, neutral expression, and no glasses.
- Name Change Document (if applicable) – If you are also updating your name, you must provide a certified copy of a court order, marriage certificate, or other official documentation proving the name change.
Step 3: Select Your Gender Marker
The U.S. Department of State now offers three gender marker options on passports:
- M (Male)
- F (Female)
- X (Unspecified/Non-Binary)
You do not need medical documentation to select the X gender marker. You can self-certify your gender identity, which simplifies the process.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Depending on the form you are using, you may need to apply in person or by mail:
- In-Person Applications (Form DS-11): You must apply at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or courthouse. You must bring your completed form, all required documents, and payment.
- By Mail Applications (Form DS-82 or DS-5504): If you can renew or correct your passport by mail, send your completed application, documents, passport photo, and payment to the appropriate address listed on the form instructions.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
The cost of updating your passport depends on the type of passport and processing time:
- Passport Book: $130 for a standard adult passport valid for 10 years.
- Passport Card: $30 for a passport card valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
- Expedited Service (Optional): An additional $60 if you need your passport processed faster.
- Overnight Delivery (Optional): An additional $19.53 for faster return shipping.
Some acceptance facilities may also accept credit or debit cards for execution fees.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
Processing times can vary depending on demand and the time of year:
- Standard Processing in 6 to 8 weeks.
- Expedited Processing in 2 to 3 weeks (with an additional fee).
- Emergency Service is available for urgent travel needs. You must schedule an appointment at a passport agency and provide proof of emergency travel, such as a plane ticket.
Conclusion:
Updating your passport is important to ensure that your legal documents reflect your identity. By carefully following these steps, you can complete the process smoothly and confidently.