What Elliot Page’s Gender Marker Update Reminds Us About Name & Gender Changes in Nebraska

Why This Process Matters

When actor Elliot Page publicly came out as trans, he also took the legal steps to update his name and gender marker across official documents. His story was a reminder that this process is about more than paperwork—it’s about safety, dignity, and the right to be recognized as who you are.

Here in Nebraska, though, the path isn’t always straightforward. Legal name and gender marker changes remain inconsistent across document types and burdened by outdated policies.

This guide offers a clear, realistic look at what’s currently possible—and what challenges remain—for Nebraskans navigating these systems.

Name Change Process in Nebraska

For adults, Nebraska’s name change process is relatively clear:

Steps for Adult Legal Name Change:

1. File a Petition for Name Change in the District Court of your county.

2. Publish the name change notice in a local newspaper once a week for four consecutive weeks, as required by Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-21,271.

3. Request a publication waiver if disclosing your name publicly could threaten your safety (especially important for transgender individuals).

4. Attend a court hearing.

5. Receive a signed Name Change Order.

Once granted, you can use this court order to update your:

• Social Security record

• Nebraska driver’s license or state ID

• U.S. passport

• Bank accounts, employment records, health insurance, and more

Name Changes for Minors:

Parents or legal guardians must file on behalf of a child. The court process is similar but includes additional notice and consent requirements. If one parent does not consent, additional steps may be required.

Gender Marker Change Process in Nebraska

This is where the legal landscape becomes more difficult—and less affirming.

Nebraska Driver’s License or State ID

Nebraska’s DMV allows individuals to update their gender marker to M or F. An “X” nonbinary marker is not reliably available under current state policy.

To update your gender marker on a Nebraska ID, you must:

• Submit a Gender Designation Form, signed by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or psychologist.

• The form must confirm you’ve received “appropriate clinical treatment” for gender transition.

Unfortunately, Nebraska does not define what counts as “appropriate treatment,” leaving room for inconsistent decisions and gatekeeping by providers or DMV officials.

Nebraska Birth Certificates

Updating a gender marker on a Nebraska birth certificate is currently one of the most restrictive processes in the country.

• The state typically requires proof of sex reassignment surgery, which is an outdated and discriminatory standard.

• Many trans people cannot or choose not to undergo surgery, making this requirement a major barrier.

• Legal and legislative efforts to change this policy have stalled or been reversed in recent years.

Federal Documents

The good news: federal policies are more inclusive.

You can now update:

• Your U.S. Passport

• Your Social Security records

…without surgery or a physician letter. This provides a critical level of protection and recognition—especially when Nebraska-issued documents fall short.

Why Accurate Documents Matter

Inconsistent or incorrect identification can lead to serious real-world problems:

• Being outed against your will

• Employment or housing discrimination

• Issues with health insurance or medical care

• Travel delays or harassment

• Emotional distress and daily anxiety

Updating your documents to reflect your true identity is about more than bureaucracy—it’s about safety, legal recognition, and peace of mind.

Supporting You Through the Process

Whether you’re updating one document or several, navigating this system can feel overwhelming—especially when safety, privacy, and emotional energy are already stretched thin.

That’s where I come in.

At Zachary W. Anderson Law, I support transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse clients through every step of the name and gender marker change process.

I’ll help you understand:

• What’s currently possible under Nebraska law

• Where federal protections can support you

• How to reduce public exposure, avoid unnecessary delays, and protect your rights

Every conversation is confidential. Every step is grounded in compassion and respect.

If you’re ready to begin—or even just to ask a few questions—I’m here.

Call 402-259-0059 or email zach@zandersonlaw.com to schedule a consultation.