The Issues:
Transgender Issues

Driver's License Information

In Maryland, it is possible to change the gender identification on one's driver's license. This is spelled out in Motor Vehicle Administration Policy #26300-001. The following information was provided by Jane Valenzia of the MVA.

During the transitional perioid, before the courts can approve a permanent gender change, you may request that your driver's license be changed to reflect your desired name and gender. To accomplish this, you will have to submit the following documents to the Motor Vehicle Administration for review by its Medical Advisory Board:

  • A letter from you formally requesting a change in gender status. This letter should explain the reason(s) for your request and how you believe you would benefit from this.
  • A letter from the physician administering your hormone therapy and assisting you with any plans you may have for surgery. This letter should indicate the length of time you have been in treatment as well as a statement clarifying the doctor's impression of your treatment progress and your prognosis for favorable outcome.
  • A letter from your psychotherapist stating the length of time you have been in treatment, the length of time you have recognized your desire to live in your desired gender, and the length of time you have been living in your desired gender (both privately and publicly). The therapist should summarize your situation, the progress of treatment, the anticipated course of treatment, obstacles to be overcome, and prognosis. The therapist's professional credential, practice affiliation(s), and current license(s) should be stated clearly.

Upon receipt of all of this information, the Medical Advisory Board will be asked to review the package and render a recommendation to the Administration. If your request is approved, you will receive a letter confirming this. You may take this to any full-service MVA office, where a license reflecting your desired name and gender will be issued.

The mailing address is

Motor Vehicle Administration
Driver Wellness and Safety
6601 Ritchie Hwy.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Send materials to the attention of either Thomas Liberatore, Division Manager or Ms. Nancy Snowden, Medical Review Supervisor.

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