The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the Trump administration’s decision to end a policy that allowed individuals to self-identify their gender on passports, marking a major shift in federal identity documentation rules.
In a closely watched ruling, the Supreme Court cleared the way for the Trump administration to discontinue guidelines that permitted Americans to choose the gender marker on their passports without medical or legal verification.
The decision effectively reinstates a requirement for applicants to present formal documentation, such as a birth certificate or physician’s certification, when requesting a gender designation differing from their biological sex.
Supporters of the ruling argue that it restores consistency and accuracy in federal recordkeeping, while critics say it undermines transgender rights and imposes unnecessary barriers for gender-diverse individuals. Legal advocacy groups have vowed to challenge the decision through legislative and administrative channels.
The ruling is expected to influence broader debates over gender identity recognition in federal systems, driver licensing, and other identification services. Analysts say it could also shape future legal standards balancing personal autonomy with administrative verification policies.
