Washington state implements Gender “X” option on driver’s licenses

By Devin Perez

Columbia Basin Herald

Following months of feedback from citizens around the state, the Washington State Department of Licensing has announced drivers will now be able to change their driver’s license and identification cards to Gender X, for those that don’t identify as male or female.

In addition to being able to identify as male and female on their driver’s license, residents can choose to identify as Gender ‘X’. The ‘X’ option is a gender that does not classify as male or female. For state officials, they say the move is a step forward for inclusion rights.

The Washington State Department of Licensing recommended the change earlier this year. The new gender option will be available on driver licenses, instruction permits and state-issued identification cards.

In the State of Washington, parents are allowed to choose the ‘X’ option on birth certificates. The Washington State Department of Health made the change in 2017 and has processed 518 requests for gender changes since January 2018, with 59 requests for a gender ‘X’ classification.

Elayne Wylie, co-executive director of the Gender Justice League, said the move is a step in the right direction.

“It’s imperative of our government to include as many people as possible so that people actually feel like they’re part of society, and that they’re seen and heard,” Wylie said.

Teresa Berntsen took the role of Director for the Washington State Department of Licensing in 2018 and said residents were frustrated that the state agency didn’t offer a non-binary option, which prompted the DOL to look into adding the gender option. Residents whose birth certificates identified their gender as ‘X’ were turned away from the DOL.

“A third gender option ensures that all Washington residents have identification documents that reflect their gender identity. Accurate gender markers on such documents help residents of all genders access public spaces and resources, and reduce the risk of violence, discrimination, and harassment,” the Washington State Department of Licensing stated in a press release.

“Everyone deserves to have their lived experience of gender and identity reflected as accurately as possible on their identification documents,” Berntsen stated. “This, in turn, helps reduce barriers to housing, transportation, education, and employment. It’s in service to our purpose of helping all Washington residents live, work, drive, and thrive.”

The DOL held public hearings back in August in Seattle, Spokane and Olympia to get feedback from residents in the state. In June, listening stations were held in Seattle and Spokane to get feedback from the public.