The Short Answer – Yes, Pennsylvania Allows First‑Cousin Marriage
Did you know that about 2 percent of all U.S. marriages involve a cousin? In Pennsylvania, the law has never prohibited first‑cousin unions, and the 2026 statutes remain unchanged. Pennsylvania’s “Marriage Laws” (18 Pa.C.S. § 301) define a marriage as a civil contract between any two persons who are not already married, without spelling out a cousin restriction. Consequently, two consenting adults who are first cousins may legally wed, provided they meet the standard age and consent requirements and are not otherwise disqualified (e.g., already married or mentally incapacitated).
Legal Framework
Pennsylvania’s marriage statutes focus on capacity, age, and existing marital status. The relevant provisions (18 Pa.C.S. §§ 301‑303) list the only prohibited relationships as those that are already married to one another or are in a direct line of descent (parent‑child, grandparent‑grandchild). No language bars cousins, meaning the state treats first‑cousin couples the same as any other unrelated pair.
For a marriage to be valid, both parties must be at least 18 years old—or obtain a judicially approved affidavit of parental consent if younger. The ceremony must be performed by a licensed officiant and recorded with the county clerk. Failure to follow these procedural steps can render the marriage void, but the cousin relationship itself does not create a legal obstacle.
Exceptions and Considerations
Although the law permits cousin marriage, couples should be aware of two practical concerns:
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Genetic Counseling – Medical research indicates a modestly increased risk of recessive genetic disorders for children of first cousins (approximately 2‑3 percent higher than the general population). Prospective spouses often consult a genetic counselor to assess specific risks.
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Religious or Cultural Restrictions – Some faith traditions discourage or prohibit cousin unions. While these are not legal barriers, they may affect family acceptance or ceremony planning.
Historical Context
Pennsylvania’s stance contrasts with several states that have historically banned cousin marriage (e.g., Kentucky, West Virginia). The state’s early statutes, dating back to the 19th‑century “Marriage Act of 1865,” never included a cousin prohibition, and legislative attempts to change this have never succeeded. The absence of a ban reflects Pennsylvania’s broader legal philosophy that marriage restrictions should be limited to issues of consent and existing marital ties rather than familial relationships.
Bottom Line
First‑cousin couples in Pennsylvania enjoy the same legal right to marry as any other consenting adults, subject only to the general marriage requirements. While there are no statutory hurdles, consideration of genetic counseling and cultural attitudes can help ensure an informed and harmonious union.
Can a first cousin marry a second cousin in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania does not differentiate between degrees of cousinship; any two consenting adults who are not otherwise disqualified may marry.
Are there any age exceptions for cousin marriages?
The age rules are uniform for all marriages. Individuals 16 or 17 may marry with a court‑approved consent; otherwise, both parties must be at least 18.
Does Pennsylvania recognize cousin marriages performed in other states?
Absolutely. Pennsylvania honors out‑of‑state marriages that are legal where performed, including cousin unions, as long as they meet Pennsylvania’s general marriage criteria.
Could a cousin marriage be declared void for public policy reasons?
No. Pennsylvania case law has upheld cousin marriages, and the statutes contain no public‑policy provision to invalidate them.
What documentation is required for a cousin marriage license?
The couple must present valid identification, proof of age, and, if applicable, evidence of parental or judicial consent. No additional paperwork concerning their familial relationship is needed.