FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2025

Secretary of State Offers Public Guidance Regarding Gender Designations on Maine Driver’s Licenses

AUGUSTA—Changes at the federal level regarding United States passport issuance have led to questions about whether any changes to the laws or rules around driver license and identity card issuance are forthcoming at the state level in Maine. Today the Department of Secretary of State issued public guidance to reassure customers that there are no changes to Maine laws or rules around driver’s license and identity card issuance at the state level. We have created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (PDF) document to address questions which can be found online.

“Our offices are proud to welcome every Mainer, and we will always provide our excellent customer service to everyone,” said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. “I and my staff remain respectful of everyone, including those who are transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive. All are welcome here.”

The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles will continue to offer the option of a gender marker “X” designation on driver’s licenses and identification cards upon receipt of a completed gender designation form. This policy has been in place in Maine since 2018. The executive orders at the federal levels apply to federal agencies only. Driver’s licenses are governed by state law and policy.

“I want to be clear, the federal executive order regarding gender designations does not override Maine human rights law,” said Secretary Bellows. “I will always stand up for our citizens and our constitutional freedoms.”

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