Oregon may be first state to let drivers skip gender on license

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – Oregon is on track to become the first state to allow residents to skip a gender identity on their driver’s licenses and identification cards.

Transgender residents say the change would make them feel safer.

The Oregonian/OregonLive says Tuesday (http://bit.ly/2q0Rhm2) the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles doesn’t oppose the change and will hold a hearing Wednesday in Portland.

In Oregon, changing the rules on gender identity for a driver’s license doesn’t require a vote by lawmakers.

Those who want a new license with no gender listed would have to pay a renewal fee.

Last year, a Portland judge allowed Jaime Shupe to legally identify as neither male nor female.

Shupe asked for an updated license, prompting the proposed changes.