How to get married in Alaska is a question many adventurous and romantic couples ask when considering a wedding in one of the most breathtaking places in the United States. Known for its majestic landscapes, glacier-filled valleys, and untamed wilderness, Alaska offers more than just scenic beauty—it also provides a structured yet flexible legal process for couples who wish to tie the knot. Whether you are planning a small elopement under the Northern Lights, a traditional church wedding, or a remote mountain ceremony, getting married in Alaska can be a magical experience with the right preparation. However, the process requires careful attention to documentation, deadlines, and ceremony logistics. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the general requirements, all ways to get married in Alaska, and key considerations to make your marriage legally valid and emotionally unforgettable.
General Requirements to Get Married in Alaska
Before exploring the various ways to get married in Alaska, you must first understand the legal requirements that apply to all couples:
1. Minimum Age to Marry - To legally marry in Alaska, both individuals must be at least 18 years old. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may marry only with written parental or legal guardian consent, along with court approval. Those under 16 are not permitted to marry under any circumstances. Acceptable identification includes a valid photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Proof of age and identity must be submitted with the application for a marriage license.
2. Marriage License Application - Unlike Alabama, Alaska requires couples to apply for a marriage license before getting married. You must complete a Marriage License Application, which can be obtained from any Bureau of Vital Statistics office or online from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website. The application must be signed by both parties, notarized, and submitted either in person or by mail. The application includes full legal names, birthplaces, previous marital status, and information about your parents.
3. Waiting Period and Validity - There is a three-day waiting period after the application is received before the license is issued. This means you cannot marry immediately upon applying. Once issued, the marriage license is valid for 90 days, giving couples up to three months to hold their ceremony. If you don’t marry within that window, you'll need to reapply and pay the fee again.
4. Filing Fee - There is a non-refundable application fee of \$60, which must be paid at the time of submission. Payment methods vary depending on whether you’re applying in person or by mail. Some offices accept cash, checks, or credit/debit cards, while mailed applications typically require a check or money order.
5. No Blood Tests or Residency Requirement - Alaska does not require blood tests for marriage, and there is no residency requirement. You do not need to be an Alaskan resident or even a U.S. citizen to get legally married in the state. This makes Alaska a popular destination for out-of-state and international couples seeking a picturesque or adventurous wedding.
6. Divorce and Prior Marriages - If either party has been previously married, the date of the final divorce decree or spouse’s death must be listed on the application. If the divorce was finalized within the last 60 days, you may need to provide a copy of the final decree. This ensures that all previous legal obligations have been resolved before entering into a new marriage.
All Ways to Get Married in Alaska
There are several legal ways to get married in Alaska, each offering flexibility depending on your preferences, location, and logistics:
1. Traditional Wedding Ceremony with an Officiant
This is the most common and widely recognized method of getting married in Alaska. After receiving your marriage license, you may hold a traditional ceremony conducted by an authorized officiant. Officiants may include:
i. Ministers, priests, rabbis, or other clergy from any recognized religious denomination.
ii. Judges or magistrates within the Alaska court system.
iii. Tribal leaders or officials if conducted under recognized Native Alaskan tribal law.
During the ceremony, the officiant must witness your vows and sign the marriage certificate along with at least two adult witnesses (18 years or older). The officiant then returns the signed marriage certificate to the Bureau of Vital Statistics to finalize the marriage.
2. Self-Uniting or Friend/Family-Performed Ceremonies (By Special Appointment)
Alaska does not formally recognize “self-uniting” marriages like some other states, but it allows a friend or family member to become a temporary marriage commissioner for one day. This is done by applying through the Alaska Court System for a One-Time Marriage Commissioner Appointment. This allows someone special to you—who may not be ordained—to legally perform your ceremony.
To do this:
i. Submit the Marriage Commissioner Appointment Request form to a local court.
ii. Approval typically takes a few days, and no legal training is required.
iii. Once appointed, the individual performs the ceremony, signs the marriage license, and submits it to the Bureau of Vital Statistics.
3. Courthouse Wedding (Civil Ceremony)
Many Alaskan couples choose to have a simple civil ceremony at a courthouse. These are conducted by magistrates or district court judges and are typically short and formal. You must schedule an appointment in advance with the court and bring your marriage license, along with the required witnesses. Civil weddings are especially popular for elopements or those who prefer a minimalist legal approach without religious or elaborate elements.
4. Remote or Adventure Wedding (Including Fly-In or Wilderness Ceremonies)
Alaska is famous for adventure weddings—from helicopter landings on glaciers to intimate vows under the Northern Lights. These ceremonies can be conducted legally as long as:
i. The marriage license has been issued in advance.
ii. A legally recognized officiant is present.
iii. Two adult witnesses are on-site.
Many couples hire travel planners or elopement coordinators who specialize in arranging remote officiants and logistics in Alaska’s wild terrain. After the ceremony, the officiant mails the signed license to finalize the marriage.
5. Proxy Marriage (Not Permitted)
Alaska does not allow proxy marriages, which means both individuals must be physically present during the ceremony. This applies to all types of ceremonies, including military marriages. If one party cannot attend, the marriage cannot be legally completed in Alaska.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married in Alaska
1. Scenic Wedding Opportunities
Alaska offers unmatched natural beauty for couples looking for a memorable setting. You can get married near glaciers, mountain ranges, national parks, fjords, or even during a cruise. These scenic venues provide stunning photo opportunities and unforgettable backdrops. However, couples should plan for unpredictable weather and accessibility issues. Booking experienced local vendors and wedding planners can help overcome logistical challenges.
2. Weather and Seasonal Factors
The best time for getting married in Alaska depends on your preferred climate. Summer (June to August) offers long daylight hours and more reliable weather, making it the most popular season. Winter weddings are magical but come with shorter days, snow, and potential travel complications. If you're planning a wedding outdoors or in remote areas, prepare for sudden weather changes. Always have a backup plan for your ceremony location, especially during transitional seasons like spring and fall.
3. Marriage License Timing and Location
While applying for a license is straightforward, the mandatory 3-day waiting period and 90-day expiration mean you must plan carefully. Make sure you apply far enough in advance of your wedding date to avoid delays. If you're flying in from out of state, arrive early enough to file your application and pick up the license. If mailing the application, factor in processing and delivery times. It’s best to confirm office hours with the local Bureau of Vital Statistics office or courthouse.
4. Witness Requirements
Alaska requires two adult witnesses to be present at your ceremony, regardless of the location. This means couples eloping must plan to include at least two friends, family members, or hire witnesses through their officiant or planner. Forgetting this detail could render the marriage invalid. Witnesses must sign the marriage certificate immediately after the ceremony. They do not need to be residents of Alaska.
5. Marriage Recognition and Documentation
After the ceremony, your officiant will return the signed license to the state. Once processed, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate, which you’ll need for name changes, immigration, or legal updates. These can be ordered from the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics for a small fee. If you plan to change your name, use this certificate to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport. International couples should verify whether Alaskan marriages are recognized in their home countries.
6. Travel and Lodging Costs
Alaska is remote and travel can be expensive depending on the season, location, and mode of transportation. If you're planning a destination wedding, factor in airfare, hotel stays, gear rentals, and vendor travel fees. Accommodations may be limited in smaller towns or national park areas, so book early. Having a detailed wedding itinerary helps guests and vendors coordinate logistics. If you're eloping, work with local guides or wedding planners who specialize in Alaskan events.
Conclusion
Getting married in Alaska offers a unique blend of legal structure and breathtaking natural wonder, making it one of the most unforgettable places to say “I do.” From traditional courthouse ceremonies to adventurous glacier weddings, Alaska caters to every couple’s dream and style. With clear guidelines for obtaining a marriage license, flexible officiant options, and scenic backdrops at every turn, your journey toward marriage in the Last Frontier can be smooth and memorable. Just be sure to plan early, meet all legal requirements, and account for Alaska’s seasonal and geographic challenges. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are many ways to get married in Alaska, and with the right preparation, your Alaskan wedding will be an experience to treasure for a lifetime.
.webp)
