British Columbians who don’t identify as male or female will now have the choice to display an “X” as a third option in the gender field on their ID.
This new option can be used on their B.C. issued driver’s licence, identity card, birth certificate and BC Services Card.
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“Since last summer, we have been working on changes to government documents in recognition and respect of people who do not identify as male or female,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Including the X gender designation on key ID is an important step in this.”
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Gender X Designation
The ministries of Health, Citizens’ Services and Attorney General have worked together to include an X designation option on government-issued identification documents. This option came into effect on Thursday, November 1st, 2018.
“We are taking action to move British Columbia into the 21st century when it comes to gender identity,” said Jinny Sims, Minister of Citizens’ Services.
“This is a step in the right direction to ensure that identity documents better reflect identity. It is the right thing to do.”
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Changing Gender Designation On Identity Document
For people born in British Columbia, you can submit a Change of Gender Designation Application form (VSA509a) along with a copy of the physician’s or psychologist’s confirmation form (VSA 510p) to the Vital Statistics Agency.
Those who were not born in British Columbia, but are now BC residents can submit a BC Services Card Change of Gender Designation Application form (BCSC509a), along with a copy of the physician’s or psychologist’s confirmation form (VSA 510p) to HIBC.
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