Alaska State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Alaska, also known as The Last Frontier state, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a social security number, along with a valid government-issued photo ID and/or a birth certificate when applying for a marriage license.  Applications must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the date that the license is to be picked up and both parties must be present to receive the license.  If an application is mailed or faxed, it must be notarized.   

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Alaska must provide a certified copy of their birth certificate and must have both parents present with valid identification when applying for a marriage license.  If either have a legal guardian, he/she must be present with a court order and valid identification.  

Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but there is a three business day waiting period.  If either of the intended were divorced within the last 60 days, a copy of the divorce decree is required when applying for a marriage license.

Once granted, an Alaska marriage license is valid for 90 days.  Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average fee, however, is $40.00 and all applicants are urged to have cash on hand incase credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of Alaska.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in the state.  A wedding can be conducted by a minister, priest, accepted leader or rabbi from any church or congregation in the state of Alaska.  In addition, a state judicial officer or marriage commissioner may also officiate a ceremony. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the Forget-Me-Not, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  Because a wedding is an event to remember, this flower is a perfect choice. There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Alaska a perfect choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice. Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements.   

To obtain a copy of an Alaska marriage certificate, send $20.00 to: Department of Health and Social Services, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 5441 Commercial Blvd., Juneau, AK 99801.  For additional information on obtaining an Alaska marriage license, call 907-465-3391.

Alaska Marriage Code

Title 25 provides information on Alaska marriage laws.