Making the new you Official [In Illinois]

[DietFresca]

Hi all,

I went to the DMV to find out what it takes to get your gender on your license changed, all they need is a note from your doctor (psychiatrist, endocrinologist or GP) that you have gone or are going through such a transition.

But here's the catch... they can change your gender, but not your name.

So I've learned that to change your name in IL, you have to file a petition with the courts and go in front of a Judge who will decide whether to allow it or not, it costs $319 to file the paperwork and you have to pay for 3 months of newspaper ads that your former name is now your new name.  So I imagine this should be the first step so when you go get the sex on your Drivers license changed, they can also change your name to your new female name.

Anyone been through the process in IL, anything else I should be aware of?

[kathyk]

The best place to start is with the Transgender Law Center in SF.  http://transgenderlawcenter.org/  They do work throughout the US and will fill out the paperwork for you, then email it to your address.  The three month publication sounds a little odd, but I didn't check Illinois law.  Call or send an email to the Law Center today and they'll be getting back to you within a day or so.

Some states will also waive fees for financial hardships, fixed incomes, or disabilities.  All you need is proof and a signed affidavit.  And a few newspapers have ways to reduce costs for hardships if you have a good reason.

I'm going to court on December 5 for my name change, and in California I also get a new birth certificate.  I'm a woman and it's about time my documents said so.


So go for the gold girl. 

[Mariah]

I had the sex changed on my drivers license more than two years ago. Just took a letter to the DMV, they updated my info and had me do a vision test. Paid the $5 fee and got a license with a new picture. I still haven't done the name change. In cook county it is around $500 including the publication fee, there is a publication office in the court house. Then you also need official copies, but you can apply for a fee waiver if the judge agrees. If you live in Chicago look up the tjlp.