Key Takeaways
- Must be at least 18 years old and an Arizona resident
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Must be able to read and write English
- Cannot have a felony conviction (unless rights restored)
- Cannot have a conviction for crimes involving moral turpitude
Eligibility Requirements for Arizona Notaries
Before investing time and money in becoming an Arizona notary public, you must verify that you meet all eligibility requirements. These requirements are established by Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 41-312(E).
Basic Eligibility Checklist
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 18 years old |
| Residency | Arizona resident |
| Citizenship | U.S. citizen OR legal permanent resident |
| Language | Ability to read and write English |
| Character | No disqualifying criminal convictions |
Residency Requirement
You must be an Arizona resident to become an Arizona notary public. Unlike some states that allow non-residents who work in the state to become notaries, Arizona requires actual residency.
What counts as residency:
- Your primary dwelling is in Arizona
- You maintain an Arizona address
- You intend to remain in Arizona
What does NOT qualify:
- Owning property in Arizona but living elsewhere
- Working in Arizona but living in another state
- Having a P.O. Box in Arizona
Criminal History Disqualifications
Certain criminal convictions will disqualify you from becoming a notary:
| Disqualifying Conviction | Exception |
|---|---|
| Felony conviction | Civil rights have been restored |
| Crime involving moral turpitude | Conviction set aside |
| No pardon received | Pardon or certificate of restoration granted |
What Is "Moral Turpitude"?
Moral turpitude refers to conduct that is considered inherently wrong or immoral. Examples include:
- Fraud or dishonesty crimes
- Theft-related offenses
- Forgery
- Perjury
- Embezzlement
English Language Requirement
You must be able to read and write English. This requirement exists because:
- You must read documents to identify the type of notarial act required
- You must complete notarial certificates in English
- You must understand Arizona notary laws written in English
- You must communicate with signers about the notarization process
Age Verification
The minimum age is 18 years. Your age will be verified through:
- Government-issued ID submitted with application
- Date of birth on application form
On the Exam
Expect questions about eligibility. Key points:
- Minimum age: 18 years (not 21)
- Residency: Must be Arizona resident
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen OR legal permanent resident
- Felony convictions: Generally disqualify unless rights restored
- Language: Must read and write English
What is the minimum age to become an Arizona notary public?
Which of the following would DISQUALIFY someone from becoming an Arizona notary?