Gender-Neutral Option Now Available on State IDs, Driver’s Licenses

A new gender-neutral option is now available for state IDs, driver’s licenses and commercial driver’s licenses effective today, July 1, according to Hawai‘i Department of Transportation.

Those seeking to apply, renew, or obtain a duplicate credential can now choose “X” or “Not Specified” in the gender category instead of the binary “M” (Male) or “F” (Female).

The ability to modify these credentials was authorized by Act 148, Session Laws of Hawai‘i (SLH) 2019.

“We appreciate the work of LGBT advocates, lawmakers, and the City and County of Honolulu Department of Information Technology to make this happen,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Deputy Director Ed Sniffen. “Thanks to the coordination and cooperation of our partners we are able to recognize transgender and other individuals while keeping our REAL ID compliant status.”

There is no additional documentation requirement necessary when selecting the new gender “X” designation when applying for a new, renewal or duplicate driver’s license or state identification card. New forms with the “X” choice are uploaded on https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/library/motor-vehicle-safety-office/.

Please note that availability of driver’s licensing and other in-person services varies by county. Click here for information on these services as of June 30. Social distancing and facial covering requirements must be observed.

County of Kaua‘i Department of Motor Vehicles, Drivers Licensing Section is open to the public by appointment only.

All driver’s license, State ID, and instructional permit holders in good standing with credentials that expired between March 16, 2020 through June 30, 2020, may continue to legally drive the same licensed class of motor vehicle (e.g., cars, motorcycles, mopeds, etc.) until Sept. 30, 2020.

Also starting today, all nine satellite city halls will reopen to in-person visits on an appointment-only basis. Also, appointments will be available for all types of driver license and state ID transactions.