The U.S. Department of State has issued new guidance regarding U.S. passports with the “X” gender marker. Passports with this marker remain valid until their expiration date, but as of January 20th 2025, the Department of State will no longer issue new passports with the “X” gender marker. This update reflects a shift in policy, and in this post, we’ll explain what it means for current and future passport holders.
What’s Changed?
The “X” gender marker was introduced in 2022 for non-binary, intersex, and non-gender conforming individuals. While existing passports with the “X” marker remain valid, future passports will reflect the applicant’s biological sex at birth, either “M” (male) or “F” (female), based on supporting documentation.
This change also affects transgender passport holders, who previously could select a gender marker that aligned with their gender identity. Going forward, passport renewals or new applications will be based on the sex assigned at birth.
How to Update the Gender Marker on Your Passport
To update your gender marker, you must renew your passport. This can be done online or you can expedite at a nearby FedEx Office location. Required documents include:
- Your current valid passport
- A new passport photo
- The DS-82 Passport Application form
- A check or money order for the government fee
Note: The Department of State is working on updates to its Form Filler and Form Eligibility Wizard tools for gender marker selection. For now, when renewing, you can only choose “M” or “F.” If the system doesn’t support the update, you’ll need to submit your application manually.
Impact on Transgender Passport Holders
The updated policy requires passports to reflect the sex assigned at birth. If your passport currently displays a gender marker different from your assigned sex, you can continue using it until it expires. However, at renewal or for new passports, the gender marker will align with the sex assigned at birth, as documented in supporting records.
This could cause delays for applicants requesting a gender marker different from their birth sex, as additional documentation may be required.
Does Your Birth Certificate or Driver’s License Need to Match Your Passport Gender Marker?
Your birth certificate or driver’s license does not need to match your passport’s gender marker. However, the Department of State may request documentation (e.g., birth certificate or previous passport) to verify your sex assigned at birth. Ensure your passport photo matches your current photo ID.
What Documentation Is Needed?
No medical documentation is required to update your gender marker. However, if you are changing from “X” to “M” or “F,” the Department of State will review supporting documents (like a birth certificate or prior passport) to verify your sex at birth. If there’s insufficient evidence, your application may be delayed, and you may need to provide additional information.
Passport Processing Times
Standard processing times range from 4 to 6 weeks, plus shipping time, or longer depending on demand. If you need your passport sooner, we recommend using a third-party expediting service to help navigate the renewal process and ensure faster processing. In some cases, you could receive your passport in as little as 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
The recent changes to the U.S. passport gender marker policy have significant implications for non-binary, transgender, and intersex individuals. While the “X” gender marker remains valid for existing passport holders, it will no longer be available for new passport applications. The Department of State’s updated policy requires that renewals reflect an individual’s biological sex at birth.
If you need assistance renewing or updating your passport, RushMyPassport help. We offer expedited passport services to ensure your documents are processed quickly and accurately.