Wrangell Court
Marriage License Requirements
Congratulations on your decision to tie the knot in the beautiful state of Alaska! Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand wedding celebration, understanding the marriage requirements and procedures is essential to ensure a smooth and legal ceremony. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting married in Alaska, from the application process to marriage officiants.
Marriage Application Process
Before you say “I do” in Alaska, you must complete a marriage license application. Both parties need to fill out parts of the application form. If one or both parties are out of town or state, it’s recommended to contact the court for further instructions. Additionally, each party must be at least 18 years old and provide picture identification, such as a driver’s license. A birth certificate may be required to verify age. If either party has been divorced within the last 60 days, a certified copy of the divorce decree is necessary.
Marriage License Fee
To obtain a marriage license in Alaska, a fee of $60 must be paid when the license is issued. This fee ensures the legality and validity of your marriage license.
Waiting Period and Residency Requirement
There is a three-business-day waiting period that starts when a mailed or faxed application is received by the issuing office. This waiting period means you must wait for at least three full business days before picking up the marriage license and having the marriage ceremony. You do not have to be a resident of Alaska to get married there.
Covenant Marriage and Proxy Marriages
Covenant marriages are not required in Alaska, and proxy marriages, where one party stands in for the other, are not permitted. Both parties must be present with two witnesses and the officiant for the ceremony to take place.
Marriage Ceremony Witnesses
For your wedding ceremony, two witnesses are required to be present to validate the marriage.
Marriage License Expiration
Your Alaska marriage license is valid for three months from the date of issuance. It’s important to plan your wedding ceremony within this time frame to ensure the license’s validity.
Marriage Officiants
Alaska allows a variety of individuals to officiate weddings. Recognized religious leaders, ordained ministers, priests, judges, and even commissioned officers of the Salvation Army can perform marriages. Additionally, anyone can become a marriage commissioner in Alaska through a court appointment, including friends, family members, or coworkers.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both parties must be 18 years or older to marry without parental consent. For parties aged 16 and 17, parental consent is necessary, along with a parental consent form signed by both parents. Those under 16 can only marry with a court order.
Name Change After Marriage
While getting a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name, there are online marriage name change kits available for your convenience.
Conclusion
Congratulations! Now that you’re well-versed in the marriage requirements and procedures in Alaska, you can confidently embark on your journey to a joyous and legally-binding union. Remember to follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure a seamless wedding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I get married in Alaska if I’m not a resident?
- Yes, residency is not a requirement for getting married in Alaska.
- What is the waiting period for a marriage license?
- There is a three-business-day waiting period after the application is received.
- Who can officiate my wedding in Alaska?
- Recognized religious leaders, judges, and appointed marriage commissioners can officiate weddings.
- Can I change my name after marriage?
- While your marriage license won’t automatically change your name, you can use online name change kits for this purpose.
- How long is the marriage license valid?
- The marriage license is valid for three months from the date of issuance.
