Cousin marriage is a topic that surprises a lot of people. Some think it’s banned everywhere in the U.S., while others believe it’s allowed anywhere. The truth is that the rules change from state to state. So what about Alaska? Here’s a simple breakdown of what the law says.
Yes, First Cousins Can Marry in Alaska
Marrying your first cousin is legal in Alaska. State law says a marriage is not allowed if the two people are more closely related than the “fourth degree” of blood relation, whether by whole or half blood.
That sounds complicated, but here’s what it means: under the method Alaska uses to count family relationships, first cousins fall in the fourth degree, so they are allowed to marry. Other cousin relationships are allowed too, including first cousins once removed, half-cousins and cousins through adoption.
Who Can’t Marry?
The law draws a line at relatives closer than first cousins. That means siblings, half-siblings, parents and children, aunts and nephews, and uncles and nieces can’t marry. Any such marriage is void, which means the law treats it as if it never happened.
Alaska Is Not Like Every State
Don’t assume the same rules apply everywhere. Cousin marriage is illegal or largely illegal in 31 states and legal or largely legal in 19. Some states also add conditions. In Arizona, for example, cousins can marry only if one spouse is unable to have children.
Getting Married in Alaska
Cousins follow the same steps as any other couple. In Alaska, you need a photo ID such as a driver’s license, and you don’t have to be a resident. There’s a three-business-day waiting period, and no blood test is required. The license is valid for 90 days anywhere in the state.
The Bottom Line
Yes, you can legally marry your cousin in Alaska. Just remember that closer relatives can’t marry, and if you move to another state, its laws may be different.
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