It is legal to marry your cousin in New Mexico. State law does not prohibit marriage between first cousins or more distant cousins.
1. First Cousin Marriage Is Legal
- First cousins can legally marry in New Mexico without age limits or special requirements.
- The law specifically lists prohibited relationships for marriage (such as siblings, parents and children, uncles and nieces, aunts and nephews), but does not include cousins in these restrictions.
2. No Residency Requirement
- You do not need to be a resident of New Mexico to get married there, including if you are marrying a cousin.
3. Marriage License Requirements
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old (or 16-17 with parental consent).
- Both must provide two forms of government-issued ID.
- No blood test or proof of relationship is required for cousins.
4. Prohibited Marriages
- New Mexico law prohibits marriage between close relatives such as siblings, parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, uncles and nieces, and aunts and nephews.
- First cousins are not included in this list, making such marriages legal.
5. Recognition in Other States
- While New Mexico recognizes cousin marriages, some other states do not. If you plan to move, check the laws of your new state regarding recognition of cousin marriages.
Summary Table
| Relationship | Legal to Marry in NM? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First cousin | Yes | No restrictions or special requirements |
| Second cousin (or further) | Yes | Legal and unrestricted |
| Sibling, parent/child, uncle/niece, aunt/nephew | No | Explicitly prohibited by law |
Practical Guidance
- You can legally marry your cousin in New Mexico. The process is the same as for any other couple.
- Be aware that some states may not recognize cousin marriages performed in New Mexico if you move.
- Always check for the most current laws or consult an attorney if you have concerns, as laws can change.
Marrying your cousin is legal in New Mexico. The state does not prohibit or restrict marriage between first cousins or more distant cousins. However, marriages between closer relatives (like siblings or uncles/nieces) are not allowed.
If you plan to marry your cousin in New Mexico, you can do so without legal barriers, but always check the laws of any state you may move to in the future.
Sources:
- https://www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/24%20Regular/bills/house/HB0242.HTML
- https://getordained.org/state-marriage-laws/new-mexico
- https://oldrcdlc.org/marriage-laws
- https://www.co.valencia.nm.us/238/Marriage-License
