Texas DPS Says Men Can No Longer Apply to Get a Woman ID Card

Austin, TX – August 22, 2024: As of Tuesday, Texas Department of Public Safety will no longer accept court orders or altered birth certificates from persons who want to change their “sex” on their driver’s licenses. The new rule sent by email became effective immediately on August 20 and information on how to change one’s “sex” on an ID or driver’s license has been removed from the DPS website. According to news reports, the DPS was directed by Governor Greg Abbott to make this change.

Mary Elizabeth Castle, Director of Government Relations for Texas Values said:

“We are grateful that our governor is directing state agencies to avoid issuing false and misleading IDs that change one’s “sex” based on thought perceived gender identity. This is a step in the right direction in making sure our government and society confirms what a woman is and protects sex-based rights that are based on biology”.

Prior to this rule, a person could change their “sex” on government documents with a court order: no proof of gender modification surgery is required. Being able to change one’s sex on government documents in order to align with gender identity has led to a number of problems including men competing in women’s sports, entering women’s private spaces and homeless shelters, and gaining access to opportunities specifically designated for women. Changing the “sex” on ID cards has also been a topic that has been discussed during legislative hearings on the topic of gender transition procedures for minors and other similar legislation.

KUT has a copy of the letter sent to DPS staff and can be found here.

Members of the Texas Values law and policy team are available for comment. Email Ashley to schedule an interview media@txvalues.org or call/text 737-314-2450.

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About Texas Values

Texas Values is the largest statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to standing for faith, family, and freedom in Texas. More information is available at txvalues.org.