Under the current administration, the U.S. government has committed to better serve all U.S. citizens, regardless of their gender identity. To this end, the Department of State has updated its policies regarding gender markers on U.S. passports. The Department plans to add an X gender marker for non-binary, intersex, and gender non-conforming persons who apply for a U.S. passport.
The Department of State recently announced that it has issued its first U.S. passport with an X gender marker. This landmark change will soon become commonplace. The Department will offer this option to all passport applicants once it completes system and form updates in early 2022. The Department has pledged to continue to work with other U.S. government agencies to make sure the travel experience is as smooth as possible for all passport holders. The passport update is a small, but significant step in promoting the freedom, dignity, and equality of all people.