Since your birth certificate is a vital document that contains personal, identifying information, it’s important for it to be accurate. So, if you are a transgender, intersex, or non-binary individual, you may be wondering how to change the gender on your birth certificate to accurately portray your identity.
Most states do allow gender changes on birth certificates. However, each state has its own rules and regulations. In addition, a few states do not allow birth certificate gender changes at all. So we’ll help you determine what the rules and processes are for your state and how you can change the gender on your birth certificate.
States that do not allow you to change the gender on your birth certificate
Currently, the only states that do not allow any gender changes on birth certificates are Kansas, Ohio, Idaho, and Tennessee. However, several other states only allow transgender individuals to change their birth certificate gender.
Some of these states also require proof of sexual reassignment surgery from the individual’s doctor. Other states may ask for medical documentation that you are transitioning, but they do not require you to have had reassignment surgery.
As you can see, the laws and application processes vary widely by state. And you must apply with your birth state. However, your birth state’s vital records office will be able to provide you with details on the amendment process and what documentation you will need.
States that offer a non-binary gender marker on birth certificates
If you are an intersex or non-binary individual, you may also want to change the gender on your birth certificate to a neutral option. California, New Jersey, Colorado, New York City, Washington D.C., and Oregon all offer a non-binary or gender “x” option on birth certificates. So, if you do not identify as strictly male or female and you were born in one of these states, you can change your birth certificate gender marker to a neutral option.
In addition, if you are the parent of a child with an intersex condition, you can select the neutral option on their birth certificate. If they identify as either male or female later on, their birth certificate can be amended.
How to apply to change your birth certificate gender marker
If you were born in a state that allows birth certificate gender changes and you meet all of the qualifications, you can apply for a birth certificate amendment. First, you’ll need to get a certified copy of your birth certificate. If you don’t already have one, you can apply online using a trusted application service, such as Birth Certificate Copy.
Next, you should get a birth certificate amendment form from a vital records office in your birth state. You’ll need to complete the form, then submit it, along with your certified birth certificate copy and any required documents and IDs, to your birth state’s vital records office. If you have legally changed your name, you can also apply to have the name on your birth certificate amended as well. You will just need to provide proof of the legal name change.
The vital records office will process your amendment application and send you an updated birth certificate copy. Depending on the state, they will either issue a completely new birth certificate, or just amend the original one. Either way, your new birth certificate will now accurately reflect your gender identity.