This information applies to individuals who are female-to-male (FTM) and male-to-female (MTF) transgender. It does not apply to people who are non-binary.
Legally changing your gender on your records in Arizona is a straightforward process. Unlike legally changing your name, you are not required to go to court.
Physician’s Letter
To legally change your gender, you need a letter from a physician. It must be of their office letterhead and include that you are “irrevocably committed” to changing your gender and that you have received “appropriate clinical treatment.” A lawyer who assists people with legal gender changes likely has a template letter you can use.
Please note: this letter must come from a licensed physician. Getting a letter from a physician’s assistant, nurse, therapist, or social worker will not work.
Update Your Social Security Records
Once you get the letter from your physician, take it (along with the court order from your name change if you’re doing that too) to your local Social Security Office. You’ll need to complete Form SS-5, which you can get in advance. You’ll also need to bring your current driver’s license or ID card. Mark the gender you’re transitioning to on the form. (Your social security card doesn’t have your gender office, but it’s part of your social security record.)
Update Your Driver’s License
A few days after you change your social security records, go to the MVD to update your driver’s license. (Go a real MVD, not a third-party satellite office.) Bring your physician’s letter and current driver’s license. Tell the clerk you’re there to update your driver’s license, and they’ll give you the appropriate form. Mark the box for the gender you’re transitioning to. You’ll have to take a new photo and pay $12 to get your new license or ID card.
Update or Get a New Passport
Arizona will not change your birth certificate to reflect your correct gender. Since a birth certificate is required to obtain a U.S. Passport, you can generally use your passport in situations where a birth certificate is required. You will have to apply in person and complete Form DS-11. Bring your physician’s letter and your updated license or ID with you.
Keep the original physician’s letter to present at each office and in case you need it to change any additional records with your correct gender.
You can legally change your name and gender at the same time by obtaining a physician’s letter and going through the process to legally change your name through the court prior to updating your social security record, driver’s license, and other documents and records. If you need to legally change your name and gender, contact a lawyer to assist you with this process.
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