Pentagon issues transgender ID guidelines

Transgender people who served in the military are facing new identification requirements.

The Pentagon said Wednesday that transgender veterans who have transitioned since leaving the military will be allowed to voluntarily update their genders on identification cards they use to receive government benefits. This also applies to defense contractors and military dependents.

To make changes to their military identification cards, the transgender veterans must show proof of a reissued birth certificate, passport, court order or a doctor’s letter verifying their transition, the Pentagon said.

In June, Defense Secretary Ash Carter lifted a ban that prevented transgender people from openly serving in the military.

The Pentagon said Wednesday the changes “fill a void” in the military’s policy.

The policy goes into effect immediately.