Makeup-Wearing Teen Scorned by DMV Will Get an Apology

South Carolina trans girl wins legal victory against South Carolina's Department of Motor Vehicles, which will change its policies.

Dawn Ennis

The Advocate's news editor Dawn Ennis successfully transitioned from broadcast journalism to online media following another transition that made headlines; in 2013, she became the first trans staffer in any major TV network newsroom. As the first out transgender editor at The Advocate, the native New Yorker continues her 30-year media career, in which she has earned more than a dozen awards, including two Emmys. With the blessing of her three children, Dawn retains the most important job title she's ever held: Dad.

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Dawn Ennis

April 22 2015 1:50 PM EST

November 17 2015 5:28 AM EST

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Chase Culpepper can now wear what she wants, including makeup, when she re-takes her driver license photograph. The South Carolina's Department of Motor Vehicles has promised to change its ways and apologize to the 17 year-old, to avoid defending itself in court.

"I am thrilled with the outcome of my lawsuit," Chase said in a statement. "My clothing and makeup reflect who I am. From Day 1, all I wanted was to get a driver's license that looks like me. Now I will be able to do that. It was hurtful to be singled out for being transgender and made to feel that somehow I wasn't good enough."

The Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund announced the legal settlement of the federal suit this morning, which will mean sweeping changes at the DMV.

Agency officials declined to comment. Court records show that under terms of the settlement, the DMV will revise its policy on photo credentials and train its staff on the proper treatment of "transgender and gender non-conforming individuals."

In March 2014, Chase was ordered to remove her makeup under a DMV policy that barred applicants from dressing in a way that might disguise their appearance. She previously identified as male but now identifies as female.