Marrying your first cousin is legal in Alabama. The state imposes no restrictions or special conditions on first cousin marriages, making it one of the more permissive states in the U.S. regarding this issue. Both opposite-sex and same-sex first cousin marriages are recognized under Alabama law.
Who Can’t Marry in Alabama?
While first cousin marriage is allowed, Alabama prohibits marriage between closer relatives. The following relationships are not permitted to marry:
- Parent and child
- Siblings
- Uncles/aunts and nieces/nephews
- Grandparents and grandchildren
Additionally, minors under 16 cannot marry, and those aged 16–18 require parental consent.
Other Types of Cousin Marriages
Alabama also allows marriage between:
- First cousins once removed
- Half-cousins
- Adopted cousins
There are no residency requirements, so out-of-state couples can marry in Alabama if they meet these criteria.
Key Takeaways
- First cousin marriage is fully legal in Alabama.
- No special restrictions or conditions apply to cousin marriages.
- Closer blood relationships (siblings, parent-child, etc.) are prohibited.
- Other cousin relationships (once removed, half, adopted) are also permitted.
- Parental consent is required for those aged 16–18; under 16 cannot marry.
Bottom line: You can legally marry your first cousin in Alabama without any legal barriers or special requirements.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/family-law/alabama/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/YouShouldKnow/comments/e7zzrj/ysk_the_reason_that_alabama_is_the_target_of/
- https://www2.sustainable-markets.org/post/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-alabama