Yes, it is illegal to marry your first cousin in Idaho. Idaho law explicitly prohibits marriage between first cousins. According to Idaho Statute 32-206, “All marriages between first cousins are prohibited”. This means you cannot legally marry your first cousin in the state, regardless of age or circumstances.
What About Other Cousins?
Second Cousins and Beyond: Marriages between second cousins (those who share great-grandparents, not grandparents) are legal in Idaho.
Other Close Relatives: Idaho also prohibits marriage between other close relatives, such as siblings, parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, and uncles/aunts with nieces/nephews.
Are There Any Exceptions?
No Exceptions for First Cousins: Idaho does not provide exceptions for first cousin marriages, such as age or infertility, unlike some other states.
Out-of-State Marriages: Even if you marry your first cousin in a state where it is legal, Idaho law may not recognize the marriage if you are a resident.
Options If You Want to Marry Your First Cousin
Neighboring States: Some nearby states, like Utah and Wisconsin, allow first cousin marriage under specific conditions (such as age or proof of infertility), but Idaho itself does not permit it.
Table
| Relationship | Legal to Marry in Idaho? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First cousin | No | Explicitly prohibited by state law |
| Second cousin | Yes | Legal |
| Other close relatives | No | Includes siblings, parents/children, etc. |
You cannot legally marry your first cousin in Idaho. Marriages between second cousins or more distant relatives are allowed.
Sources
[1] https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title32/t32ch2/sect32-206/
[2] https://1043wowcountry.com/cousin-wedding-idaho-2023/
[3] https://mix106radio.com/marrying-cousin-legal-idaho-2022/
[4] https://liteonline.com/ixp/657/p/cousin-wedding-idaho-2023/
[5] https://mix106radio.com/idahoans-can-legally-marry-their-cousins/
