Step 4 - Update or apply for passport

The instructions below will guide you step-by-step through the process.  If at anytime you are unsure of what to do, the tan colored box will give you more information and tips.  If you would like to contact an attorney or the courthouse, find resources for your area by selecting the county.

1 - Fill out application for u.s. passport (form ds-11)

Fill out form DS-11 online and print.  Or print the form below and fill out.

passport_ds-11_application.pdf
File Size: 1886 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File
Have a unique situation?
See FAQs on passports at the National Center for Transgender Equality website.

2 - collect all required documents

You will need the following:
  • Application for U.S. Passport (Form DS-11)
  • Your most recent passport (book or card), if available
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship (such as a previous U.S. Passport or certified Berth Certificate)
  • Proof of Identity that contains your signature and a photo that resembles your current appearance (such as a Driver License).  You must present the original and provide a photocopy of the front and back side.
  • A recent color photograph 2x2 inches in size
  • A Medical Certification of Appropriate Clinical Treatment (completed in task 3 below)
  • Certified copy showing a seal and judge signature of order for name change (from Step 1 - Petition)
  • Payment (click here to see fees)

Depending on your individual circumstance, you may not need all of these documents.  Better safe than sorry!
How to get a certified copy of order for name change
Contact your county clerk's office, click here and select your county.

Do proof of citizenship and identity have to be updated first?
No - they do not have to show your updated name or gender marker, but a photo ID must resemble your current appearance

3 - get medical certification of appropriate clinical treatment

The Medical Certification of Appropriate Clinical Treatment must be on a doctor's office letterhead and include:
  • Doctor's full name
  • Doctor's license or certificate number (M.D. or D.O.)
  • Issuing state or other jurisdiction of medical license or certificate
  • A statement that the patient has had appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition to the new gender (specify male or female)
  • A statement that he/she has either treated the individual in relation to the individual's change in gender or has reviewed and evaluated the medical history of the individual in relation to the individual's change in gender
  • A statement that the doctor has a doctor/patient relationship with the individual; and
  • Language stating "I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States that the forgoing is true and correct."​

Below is a sample physician's letter.  Remember that it needs to be on your physician's letterhead.​
What is "appropriate clinical treatment"?
Under the current policy, no type of treatment is required and the details of the treatment need not be included in the letter from the physician.

All that is necessary is for the physician to state the individual had clinical treatment determined by their health care provider to be appropriate.
us_passport_-sample_physician__letter.pdf
File Size: 346 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

4 - Take documents and Payment to passport acceptance facility

To find the acceptance facility closest to you, click here and enter your zip code.  Or call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
Important Note
The current policy specifically instructs passport specialists to treat transgender applicants with respect, including using appropriate pronouns and not asking unrelated questions. If you encounter improper requests for information, unprofessional behavior, or other difficulties obtaining a passport, you can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-855-865-7755 to make a complaint or submit a complaint online.

you've come a long ways!

The next step is to update your birth certificate