NY: Online gender-neutral option for state-issued IDs, permits

New Yorkers with a driver's license, learner's permit or nondriver ID can now go online at the DMV website and choose a nonbinary "X" to more accurately represent their preferred gender identity, state officials announced Thursday.

The change follows an announcement by Gov. Kathy Hochul in May that New Yorkers can update their gender marker at Department of Motor Vehicles offices statewide. 

"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 Thursday. "In New York, we are taking action to help ensure every person feels welcomed, represented, and free to live their truth, regardless of their gender identity or expression."

Those applying for a driver's license, learners permit or nondriver ID card for the first time can also choose "X" — either in person or online — as a gender marker when they complete the application process, officials said.

"We are thrilled that our customers now can go online to privately and simply amend their license or ID to reflect who they are without fear of judgment," said DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder in a statement. "One small letter can have a monumental impact on a person's life and it is our privilege to give nonbinary New Yorkers that opportunity."

David Kilmnick, president of the LGBT Network in Hauppauge, said the option to choose an 'X' gender marker online "is another step toward providing safer and more accessible ways for transgender and nonbinary New Yorkers to be their true authentic selves. In a world where transphobia and cissexism is rampant, this new option for the community will create safer spaces for those that do not feel comfortable at the DMV to do this and have an ID that matches who they are.”

A cisgender person is one whose gender identity is aligned with the sex they were assigned at birth, according to GLAAD.org.

The enacted 2022 state budget includes legislation requiring agencies to provide an option for individuals to mark their gender or sex as a nonbinary "X" on all state documents or data collection on gender or sex information. 

Transgender New Yorkers can also change their names or gender designations on marriage certificates without leaving their previous name on the form.

By Robert Brodsky

robert.brodsky@newsday.com@BrodskyRobert

Robert Brodsky is a breaking news reporter who has worked at Newsday since 2011. He is a Queens College and American University alum.