Illinois now has THREE genders! Male – Female – X….

As of April 1, Illinois residents now have three gender options, “M,” “F,” and gender-neutral “X,” on driver’s licenses and state identification documents. By doing this, Illinois joins 21 other states with similar policies.  

A 2019 law allowed gender-neutral markers on Illinois IDs, but it wasn’t until this spring that residents had the opportunity to select the gender-neutral option for IDs, because the Secretary of State’s office needed to update its card issuance system. 

A new law proposed by a Chicago area Democrats creating the gender classification of X was signed into law by Gov JB Pritzker last week.

Senate Bill 3495, sponsored by Sen. Laura Ellman (D) of Naperville, (pictured on the right) updates state law to let people select “male,” “female,” or “X” when applying for or changing a driver’s license, instruction permit, or state ID. You will no longer have to choose between male or female.

The law replaces older statutory language that referenced “non-binary,” in Illinois law.

Under HB5095, Illinois residents will be able to choose the “X” marker when first applying for an ID or license, or later request a change using a gender designation form. State officials will be prohibited from asking for medical records, court orders, or other supporting documents beyond that form.

The bill applies to documents issued by the Illinois Secretary of State, including driver’s licenses, learner’s permits, and state identification cards.