Key Takeaways
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident under Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act
- Must lawfully reside in Utah OR be employed in Utah for at least 30 days prior to applying
- Must be able to read, write, and understand English
- Must pass a mandatory background check with no disqualifying criminal convictions
Eligibility Requirements for Utah Notary Public
Before you can become a notary public in the State of Utah, you must meet specific eligibility requirements established by Utah Code Title 46, Chapter 1 (Notaries Public Reform Act). The Utah Lieutenant Governor's Office administers all notary applications and commissions.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be at least 18 years old |
| Citizenship | U.S. citizen OR permanent legal resident (under Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act) |
| Residency | Utah resident OR employed in Utah for at least 30 consecutive days before applying |
| Language | Must be able to read, write, and understand English |
| Character | No disqualifying criminal convictions involving dishonesty or moral turpitude |
Understanding the Residency Requirement
Utah offers flexibility for non-residents who work in the state. If you do not reside in Utah but are employed within state boundaries, you may still qualify for a notary commission, provided:
- You have been employed in Utah for at least 30 consecutive days immediately prior to application
- You maintain that employment throughout your commission term
- Your notarial acts are performed within Utah's jurisdiction
Important: Once commissioned, you must maintain either Utah residency OR Utah employment. If both conditions end, your commission becomes invalid.
Background Check Requirement
Since November 1, 2019, all Utah notary applicants must submit to a mandatory background check. This requirement ensures public trust in the notary system.
What the Background Check Reviews
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Criminal history | Convictions involving dishonesty or moral turpitude may disqualify |
| Prior notary revocations | Revocation in any state is considered |
| Professional license suspensions | May affect eligibility |
| Outstanding judgments | Related to prior notarial misconduct |
Disqualifying Factors
The Lieutenant Governor may deny a commission if the applicant has:
- Committed official misconduct as a notary in any state
- Had a notary commission revoked, suspended, or restricted
- Been convicted of a crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude
- Made a material false statement on the application
English Language Proficiency
Utah law specifically requires that notaries be able to read, write, and understand English. This requirement ensures that notaries can:
- Understand the documents they are notarizing
- Communicate effectively with signers
- Complete notarial certificates correctly
- Maintain accurate journal records
On the Exam
- Residency alternative: 30 days employment in Utah qualifies non-residents
- Background check: Mandatory since November 1, 2019
- Disqualifying factors: Crimes involving dishonesty, prior revocations, moral turpitude
- Language: Must read, write, and understand English
What is the minimum period a non-Utah resident must be employed in Utah before applying for a notary commission?
Which of the following would be a disqualifying factor for a Utah notary commission?
When did mandatory background checks for Utah notary applicants take effect?