Angoon Court
Marriage License Requirements

Are you planning to tie the knot in Alaska? Whether you’re a resident or not, getting married in the beautiful state of Alaska comes with a few requirements and guidelines you should be aware of. From marriage license fees to age requirements and officiants, this comprehensive guide covers all the essential information you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Alaska.

Understanding the Marriage License Process

Before you embark on your journey to marital bliss, it’s important to understand the steps involved in obtaining a marriage license in Alaska. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a marriage license in Alaska, both parties must meet certain criteria:

• Both parties must be 18 years of age or older to marry without parental consent.
• Persons ages 16 and 17 must submit a parental consent form signed by both parents with their application.
• If either party is under eighteen, contact the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics for additional instructions before completing the application.

Required Documents

Certain documents are required to prove your eligibility:

• Picture ID such as a driver’s license.
• A birth certificate may be required to show proof of age.
• If divorced within the last 60 days, a certified copy of the divorce decree is needed.

Application Submission

To complete the application for a marriage license, follow these steps:

1. Be 18 years of age.
2. Provide a picture ID such as a driver’s license.
3. Submit required documents, including a birth certificate if needed.
4. If divorced within the last 60 days, include a certified copy of the divorce decree.
5. If application is mailed or faxed in, it must be witnessed by a Notary Public.
6. Submit the application to the Bureau office or Alaska Court closest to where the marriage ceremony will be performed.

Marriage License Fee

The marriage license fee is $60 and must be paid when the license is issued.

Marriage Waiting Period

Keep in mind that there is a three (3) business day waiting period that begins once a mailed or faxed application is received by the issuing office. This means that you must wait at least three full business days after the application is submitted before you can pick up the license and the marriage ceremony can be performed.

Specific Requirements and Considerations

Marriage Residency Requirement

Unlike some states, you do not have to be a resident of Alaska to obtain a marriage license.

Previous Marriages

If either party has been married before, the name of the former spouse, the date and place of marriage, and the date and place the marriage ended are required. If the marriage ended within the past 60 days, a copy of the divorce decree, signed by the judge, or a death certificate may be required before the license will be issued.

Covenant Marriage

Covenant marriages are not required in Alaska.

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages, where someone stands in for the other party, are not permitted in Alaska. The two parties must be present before the two witnesses and the officiant for the ceremony to be performed.

Cousin Marriages

Cousin marriages are allowed in Alaska.

Common Law Marriages

There is no common-law marriage in Alaska.

Marriage Blood Test

No blood test or physical exam is required to obtain a marriage license in Alaska.

Name Change

Getting a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. You can use an online marriage name change kit if you wish to change your last name.

Marriage Witnesses

Two witnesses are required for the wedding ceremony.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

The license is valid for three (3) months from the date of issuance. The marriage must be performed before the three-month expiration of the license, or the license will no longer be valid.

Officiants and Witnesses

In Alaska, you have several options for who can officiate your wedding ceremony:

• Licensed ministers or pastors of recognized religious societies.
• Current or retired judges.
• A minister, priest, recognized leader, or rabbi of any church or congregation in the state.
• A commissioned officer of the Salvation Army, marriage commissioner, or a judicial officer of the state.

Interestingly, anyone, whether they’re a friend, family member, co-worker, or U.S. resident, can perform a marriage ceremony in Alaska. They must first obtain a marriage commissioner appointment from an Alaska court.

Conclusion

Getting married in Alaska involves a few important steps and considerations. From eligibility requirements and necessary documents to waiting periods and officiant options, this guide has provided you with valuable insights to make the process smoother. Remember, a successful marriage begins with a strong foundation, and obtaining the right marriage license is the first step towards your happily ever after.

FAQs

1. Can I get married in Alaska if I’m not a resident? Yes, residency is not a requirement for obtaining a marriage license in Alaska.
2. Is there a waiting period for obtaining a marriage license? Yes, there is a three-business-day waiting period after submitting the application.
3. Can I have a proxy marriage in Alaska? No, proxy marriages are not allowed. Both parties must be present for the ceremony.
4. Is a blood test required to get a marriage license in Alaska? No, Alaska does not require a blood test or physical exam for a marriage license.
5. Who can officiate my wedding ceremony in Alaska? Licensed ministers, pastors, judges, recognized leaders, and even individuals with a marriage commissioner appointment from an Alaska court can officiate.