[GA] [GA] How do I legally change my name and gender?

Hello! My name is TJ and I’m an attorney. Thanks so much for the opportunity to assist you! I’ve gone over the details you shared and I’ll post my initial response shortly. I’ll also post a few quick questions. They’ll help me better understand your situation so I can give you a more complete and tailored answer.

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Generally, changing your name and gender in Georgia involves a couple of different legal processes. For a name change, you’ll typically file a petition with the superior court in the county where you live.

For a gender marker change on state ID documents, you’ll likely need a court order recognizing your gender identity, often supported by a doctor’s letter. These processes are separate but can sometimes be coordinated.

Are you looking to change your name and gender marker on all your identification documents (like your driver’s license, passport, and birth certificate), or just certain ones?

Have you already had any medical treatments or procedures related to your gender transition?

Thanks for getting back to me! I can definitely give you more information about changing your gender marker on all your documents. Since you’re on testosterone, that’s a good piece of information to have.

In Georgia, changing your gender marker on official documents like your birth certificate, driver’s license, and passport generally involves a court order. The specific requirements can vary slightly for each document.

• Name Change: Usually done first or at the same time. You file a petition with your county’s superior court and may need to publish notice in a local newspaper.
• Birth Certificate: Georgia typically requires a certified court order stating that your gender has been changed by a surgical procedure, along with your legal name change.
• Driver’s License/State ID: More flexible. DDS can update your gender marker if you provide a court order or a physician’s letter identifying appropriate clinical treatment (which may include hormone therapy).
• Passport: As of early 2025, federal policy changes have made gender marker updates more restricted and subject to legal challenges. Name changes are still allowed with a court order, but gender marker changes may be limited.

The best next step is to file a petition for a name change, and if possible, request a gender marker change in the same petition. Once granted, the certified court order will allow you to update your state documents. Birth certificate changes may still require proof of surgical treatment.

Did I answer your question fully, or would you like clarification on any part of this?

Great!