Is It Illegal to Marry Your Cousin in North Dakota? Here's What the Law Says

North Dakota’s marriage laws are clear when it comes to marrying relatives—especially first cousins. Below is a detailed look at the legal landscape regarding cousin marriage in the state.

The Law on Cousin Marriage

First Cousins: Strictly Prohibited

It is absolutely illegal for first cousins to marry in North Dakota. This prohibition applies to both whole blood (sharing both parents) and half blood (sharing one parent) first cousins. The law is explicit and leaves no room for exceptions based on age or other circumstances.

More Distant Cousins: Allowed

While first cousins cannot marry, North Dakota law does permit marriage between more distant relatives. Specifically, first cousins once removed and second cousins (and beyond) are allowed to marry. This means if you are related as second cousins or further, you are legally allowed to wed in the state.

Additional Legal Details

No Recognition of Out-of-State First Cousin Marriages

North Dakota does not recognize first cousin marriages that were legally performed in other states or countries. If you marry your first cousin in a location where it is allowed and then move to North Dakota, your marriage will not be considered valid in the state.

Marriage License Application

When applying for a marriage license in North Dakota, couples are typically asked if they are related. If you are related as first cousins, you cannot obtain a license. For more distant relatives (such as second cousins), you may be asked to clarify your relationship, but you are not required to specify the exact degree unless prompted.

Religious Considerations

Catholic Marriages

If you are seeking a Catholic wedding and are first cousins, you will need a special dispensation from the church, which is rarely granted. For second cousins and beyond, no special permission is required.

Comparison with Neighboring States

North Dakota is not alone in its stance. Its neighbors—South Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana—also prohibit first cousin marriage. Minnesota and Montana allow sexual relations between first cousins but not marriage, while North Dakota and South Dakota prohibit both marriage and sexual relations between first cousins.

Summary Table

Relationship	Legal to Marry in ND?	Notes
First Cousins	No	Prohibited for both whole and half blood
First Cousins Once Removed	Yes	Allowed
Second Cousins and Beyond	Yes	Allowed

Marriage between first cousins is illegal in North Dakota, and the state does not recognize such marriages from other jurisdictions. However, marriage between more distant cousins—such as first cousins once removed and second cousins—is permitted. Always check with local authorities if you are unsure about your specific relationship before applying for a marriage license.

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