Frequently Asked Questions:
updating id documents in rhode island
What should I do if I need legal assistance with updating my ID documents?
There are some situations where you may need legal assistance from an attorney, such as individuals with criminal records. If you believe your situation will require individual legal assistance, the Transgender ID Project from GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders may be able to provide legal assistance.
Because of high demand, however, it can sometimes take several months to match you with a lawyer.
Can I get an "X" gender marker on my ID documents in Rhode Island?
State-issued documents in Rhode Island like driver's licenses, state ID's, and birth certificates allow self-attested "X" gender markers! This means no medical documentation is required to update these forms of ID.
However, federal documents like Social Security records and U.S. passports do not allow an "X" designation. You may wish to consult with legal counsel to learn more about the implications of having an "X" gender marker. Depending on your need, the Transgender ID Project from GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders may be able to provide legal assistance.
It cannot be guaranteed that an 'X' designation on your license, state ID or birth certificates will be accepted by any other city/town, state, quasi-public, or federal authority. Therefore, you should be aware that choosing an 'X' gender marker may result in conflicts in how you are registered with different governmental agencies. These conflicts could have ramifications for you in the future that are unknown and impossible to predict, and will vary depending on your personal situation.
Do I need any specific gender-affirming treatments to obtain a name change or updated gender marker?
No medical documentation is required to update your license or state ID at the Rhode Island DMV, or on your Rhode Island birth certificate. Both of these are self-attested, meaning you can change the gender marker on these documents without any medical letters.
Documentation from a medical provider is required when updating the gender marker on your Social Security records and U.S. passport. However, the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of State do not require a specific form of clinical treatment such as hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgical procedures. Your physician determines what is "appropriate clinical treatment" according to acceptable medical practices, standards and guidelines.
Do the steps outlined on TransVoteRI.com to update a name and gender marker apply if I am a minor or if I'm assisting a minor?
No. This guide is intended for adults residing in Rhode Island.
The process for a minor updating their name and/or gender marker in Rhode Island differs from the one for adults. For example, a minor's name change must be filed in the family court of the county in which the minor lives. Additionally, both parents must provide consent for the petition to be approved.
If you are a parent or guardian of a minor seeking changes to their ID documents, you may want to contact the Trans Health Access Team at Thundermist Health Center for assistance.
Additionally, the Transgender ID Project from GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders may be able to provide legal assistance, especially for situations with system-involved minors, and minors with a parent who does not consent to the minor’s desired changes.