If you’re queer, trans, or non-binary in Washington State, updating your name or gender marker on your official documents might feel a little daunting right now. With shifting rules, new executive orders, and a lot of buzz in the news, it can be tough to figure out where to begin. But don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through each step.

Whether you’re looking to update your name to better match your identity or you need to navigate gender marker changes, this post lays out the process one step at a time. And if you need extra support, feel free to reach out to Gabriel Neuman at [email protected].

  1. Start with Your Name Change in Court

The first step is getting a legal name change through your county court. This step is necessary because you’ll need the court-approved name change document to move forward with updating all your other IDs and records.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Form: You’ll need to submit a Petition for a Name Change. In question #6, you’ll explain why you’re changing your name. For example, you can write, “I’m a transgender man, and this new name aligns with my gender identity.”
  • Filing: You can file your petition either in-person or online but filing in person usually speeds things up. Be sure to bring your photo ID when you file so they can make a copy. The filing fee is $98, with a $203.50 recording fee, bringing the total to $301.50. Paying in cash can help speed up the process.
  • Court Hearing: After filing, the court will send you a date for your hearing. If you paid in cash, you’ll hear back within 90 days; if you paid another way, it’ll take 30-90 days. At the hearing, the judge will review your petition, confirm everything is correct, and then sign your name change order. This signed order is what you’ll use to update your other documents.

  1. Update Your ID with the DMV

Once your name change is official, it’s time to update your ID.

What you need to do:

  • Bring your old ID and the court order with your new name to the DMV. You can also ask them to update your gender marker if you’d like.
  • Pay the $72 fee for your new license or ID.
  • You’ll get a new photo taken, and they’ll give you a temporary paper ID until your new one arrives in the mail.

Tip: If you’re in Seattle, the DMV in Queen Anne is pretty close to the Social Security office and the courthouse, making it a convenient spot to visit.

  1. Change Your Name with Social Security

Next, you’ll need to update your name with the Social Security Administration.

Steps:

  • Set up an appointment with your local Social Security Office.
  • Bring these documents:
    1. Your court order for your name change
    2. Your ID (even if it hasn’t been updated yet)
    3. The SS-5 form (Application for a Social Security Card)
  • Note: Due to past executive orders, the Social Security office can’t update your gender marker at the moment, but they can update your name. Once they process your request, they’ll send your new Social Security card in the mail.

  1. Update Your Birth Certificate

Now it’s time to update your birth certificate.

  1. Update Your Passport

Finally, you’ll want to update your passport.

You can easily update your name on your passport without any issues. However, gender marker changes on passports are currently paused. If you’re renewing a passport with an “X” gender marker, you’ll need to select “M” or “F.”

How to update your passport:

  • Set Up Appointment: Set up an in-person appointment at your local passport office.
  • Bring Your Paperwork: Make sure you bring the following with you to your appointment: Your most recent passport, the court order showing your name change, 1 passport photo, completed Form DS-5504, and check or money order for the passport fee ($130) plus any local processing fees.

No passport yet? Bring your updated ID, a secondary ID (like an employment card or school ID), and your birth certificate.


You’ve Got This!

It might feel like a lot, but once you get started, you’ll be checking off the boxes in no time. Remember, this process is about affirming your identity and making sure your legal documents match who you truly are. If you get stuck or need more info, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You’re not alone, and we’re here to help advocate for you!

We’re all navigating this ever-changing legal landscape together—take it one step at a time, and soon enough, everything will be updated to reflect your authentic self.

Resources:

  • LCYCWA’s Name Change Project: LCYCWA is dedicated to helping lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and questioning youth and young adults (ages 18-24) in King County with Name Change petitions. They’ll assist with all paperwork, including fee waivers (if eligible), and will even accompany youth to court. This is a rolling program, so they take cases on an ongoing basis. Visit their Get Help page and fill out the form to connect.
    Name Change Project | LCYC
  • A4TE’s Name Change Project: A4TE offers pro bono legal name change services to low-income transgender, gender non-conforming, and nonbinary people. They partner with top law firms and corporate law departments to provide support.
    Name Change Project | A4TE
  • Genderbands: Although not open currently, Genderbands provides grants for social and legal services like name changes, gender-affirming surgery assistance, emergency travel needs, and more, for the trans, gender-fluid, and queer community.
    Genderbands
  • Public Assistance/ WIC ID Reduction: If you receive public assistance or participate in the Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program, you may qualify for an ID card at a reduced cost. Contact your local Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) office or WIC provider clinic for a reduced-fee ID verification letter. If you’re under 25, you don’t need a letter to get a $5 ID card.
    Find Your Local DSHS Office