Utah Notary Practice Test

If you have a criminal conviction, what must you do when applying for your notary license?

1. Ignore it if it’s old

2. List any criminal convictions to be reviewed by the office of the Lieutenant Governor

3. Provide a letter of recommendation

4. Wait 5 years before you can apply

The correct answer is: List any criminal convictions to be reviewed by the office of the Lieutenant Governor

When applying for a notary license in Utah, if you have a criminal conviction, it is mandatory to list any criminal convictions on your application for review by the office of the Lieutenant Governor. This requirement ensures transparency and allows the reviewing authority to assess the nature of the conviction with respect to the duties and responsibilities of a notary public. The integrity of the notary profession is critical, as notaries are trusted to perform important legal functions, including the execution of documents and the prevention of fraud. By requiring applicants to disclose their criminal history, the office can determine whether the conviction might impact the applicant's ability to fulfill notarial duties responsibly. This process is in place to uphold the standards of the notarial profession and to protect the public's interest. Neglecting to mention a conviction, regardless of its age, does not align with ethical practices and could result in disqualification or penalties later. Additionally, providing a letter of recommendation or waiting a specified amount of time before applying are not standard requirements in this context, further underscoring the importance of full disclosure about any previous convictions.