Nome Court
Marriage License Requirements
Introduction
If you’ve decided to tie the knot in the beautiful state of Alaska, congratulations! With its stunning landscapes and picturesque scenery, Alaska provides a unique and unforgettable backdrop for your wedding or vow renewal ceremony. To ensure your special day goes smoothly, it’s essential to understand the process of obtaining a marriage license and finding the right wedding officiant. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting married in Alaska.
Marriage ID Requirement
To obtain a marriage license in Alaska, you must provide a picture ID such as a driver’s license. Additionally, a birth certificate may be required to show proof of age. These documents are essential to verify your identity and eligibility for marriage.
Marriage Waiting Period Requirement
Alaska has a three (3) business day waiting period that begins once a mailed or faxed application is received by the issuing office. This means that after submitting your application, you must wait at least three full business days before you can pick up the marriage license and have the marriage ceremony performed.
Marriage Residency Requirement
The good news is that you do not have to be a resident of Alaska to get married in the state. Whether you are a local or from out of state, you are welcome to exchange your vows in this captivating land.
Previous Marriages
If either party has been married before, you will need to provide the name of the former spouse, the date and place of the previous marriage, and the date and place the marriage ended. 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
Alaska does not have covenant marriages. In a covenant marriage, couples agree to undergo pre-marital counseling and accept limited grounds for divorce.
Marriage License Fees Alaska
The fee for a marriage license in Alaska is $60. This fee must be paid when the license is issued, so make sure to have the necessary funds ready.
Proxy Marriages
Unlike some other states, 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 during the marriage ceremony.
Cousin Marriages
Yes, cousin marriages are allowed in Alaska. The state recognizes marriages between cousins, provided both parties meet all other legal requirements.
Common Law Marriages
Alaska does not recognize common-law marriages. In a common-law marriage, couples can be considered married without a formal ceremony if certain conditions are met.
Marriage Blood Test Alaska
Fortunately, Alaska does not require a blood test or physical exam as part of the marriage application process.
Name Change Alaska
Obtaining a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name after marriage, you can use an online marriage name change kit to simplify the process.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both parties must be 18 years of age or older to marry without parental consent in Alaska. If either party is under 18, they must submit a parental consent form signed by both parents with their application. Special provisions apply to members of the armed forces of the United States on active duty and persons ages 16 and 17.
Marriage Officiants
In Alaska, you have a variety of options for wedding officiants. Licensed ministers or pastors of recognized religious societies, current or retired Alabama judges, a minister, priest, recognized leader, or rabbi of any church or congregation in the state, a commissioned officer of the Salvation Army, or a marriage commissioner appointed by an Alaska court can perform a marriage ceremony. Moreover, anyone, regardless of their residency, can officiate a wedding ceremony in Alaska as long as they obtain a marriage commissioner appointment from an Alaska court.
Marriage Witnesses
To make your marriage official, you will need two witnesses present during the wedding ceremony.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
An Alaskan marriage license is valid for three (3) months from the date of issuance. Your wedding must take place within this time frame for the license to remain valid. It’s important to note that the marriage ceremony must be performed in Alaska or in Alaska State waters for the license to be considered valid.
Marriage Application Requirement Alaska
Before a marriage license can be issued, an application must be completed by both parties. If either party is out of town or out of state, additional instructions may apply. Applications should be submitted to the Bureau office or Alaska Court closest to where the marriage ceremony will be performed or where either party can easily pick up the marriage license.
Conclusion
Getting married in Alaska is a magical experience, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled beauty. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and joyous wedding day. Remember, the journey to marriage may vary for each couple, but with the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to saying “I do” amidst Alaska’s enchanting wilderness.
FAQs
- Can non-residents get married in Alaska?
- Yes, non-residents can get married in Alaska without any residency requirements.
- Is there a waiting period to get a marriage license in Alaska?
- Yes, there is a three (3) business day waiting period after submitting your application before you can obtain the marriage license and have the ceremony performed.
- What are the marriage license fees in Alaska?
- The marriage license fee in Alaska is $60.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Alaska?
- No, proxy marriages are not permitted in Alaska. Both parties must be present during the ceremony.
- Can cousins marry in Alaska?
- Yes, cousin marriages are allowed in Alaska.
