TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Floridians can no longer change their gender on their driver’s licenses, according to a new policy from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
It’s a decision that’s sparked concern amongst the transgender community.
“It does cause so much more issues with trying to get our paperwork, so many other issues that drivers licenses are also used for,” said Dr. Ru Ducko, a transgender advocate.
HSMV Executive Director Robert Kynoch shared the information with county tax collectors through a memo last week.
Kynoch states license replacements will only be allowed if a person reports it lost or stolen or if the Floridian changes their name, address or restrictions.
DHSMV personnel were previously allowed to issue a new license if a resident wished to alter their gender.
Kynoch said allowing a person to change their gender is fraud and undermines the purpose of an identification record while also affecting the state’s ability to enforce laws.
“I really don’t see where it would particularly cause an issue with them enforcing the law, whether you’re male or female, if you break the law, you break the law,” Ducko said.
According to Kynoch, Floridians who misrepresent their gender could face penalties that including having their license suspended or revoked.
