Can You Become a Notary with a Felony?
Aspiring notaries often wonder about the impact of a felony conviction on their ability to become a notary. The short answer is yes, you can still become a notary with a felony, but there are certain circumstances and requirements you must meet. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines and considerations that apply to individuals with a felony record seeking to become a notary.
What are the General Requirements to Become a Notary?
Before we dive into the specifics of felons and notary licenses, it’s essential to understand the general requirements to become a notary in the United States. Typically, the following conditions must be met:
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must be a resident of the state where you wish to become a notary
- You must pass a written exam on notary law and procedures
- You must apply for a notary commission and pay the associated fees
- You must take an oath of office and obtain a notary public bond
Can You Become a Notary with a Felony?
So, can you become a notary with a felony? The answer is generally yes, but with some important caveats. In the United States, each state has its own laws and regulations regarding the eligibility of individuals with a felony conviction to become a notary.
State-by-State Breakdown
| State | Felony Restrictions | Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | No automatic disqualification | Criminal background check |
| Arizona | Disqualification applies only to serious crimes | Character evaluation |
| California | Automatic disqualification for most felonies | May be restored after rehabilitation |
| Colorado | Automatic disqualification for most felonies | May be restored after rehabilitation |
| Florida | Automatic disqualification for most felonies | May be restored after rehabilitation |
| Illinois | Automatic disqualification for most felonies | May be restored after rehabilitation |
Note: This table is a general summary of state-specific laws and is not intended to be a comprehensive or up-to-date resource. It’s essential to research the specific laws and regulations in your state.
Automatic Disqualification
Some states, such as California, Colorado, and Florida, have an automatic disqualification policy for individuals with a felony conviction. This means that you will not be eligible to become a notary if you have a felony on your record, unless you have undergone rehabilitation or the felony was expunged.
Disqualification Based on the Nature of the Crime
Other states, such as Arizona, disqualify individuals from becoming a notary only if they have been convicted of a serious crime, such as murder, kidnapping, or a felony involving fraud or theft.
No Automatic Disqualification
Alabama is an example of a state where there is no automatic disqualification for individuals with a felony conviction. However, you may still be required to undergo a criminal background check and submit to a character evaluation as part of the notary application process.
Appealing the Disqualification
If you are automatically disqualified from becoming a notary due to a felony conviction, you may be able to appeal the decision in some states. For example, in California, you can request a review of your eligibility by the California Secretary of State’s office.
Conclusion
Becoming a notary with a felony is possible, but it’s crucial to understand the specific laws and regulations in your state. It’s essential to research your state’s guidelines and consult with the appropriate authorities before applying for a notary commission. While a felony conviction may pose additional hurdles, it’s not an insurmountable barrier to becoming a notary. With persistence and determination, individuals with a felony record can still achieve their goal of becoming a notary public.
