Which of the following is NOT listed as a reason the Clerk may grant or deny a notary commission?

• A. Applicant's criminal history
• B. Revocation, suspension, or restriction of any notary commission or professional license issued to the applicant by this or any state
• C. Failure to maintain residency
• D. Engaged in the unauthorized practice of law

Answer: (C)

Notary appointments are decided based on specific eligibility factors shown in the statutes. The Clerk may deny an applicant if there is a criminal history, if any notary commission or professional license the applicant holds has been revoked, suspended, or restricted by this state or another state, or if the applicant has engaged in the unauthorized practice of law. These items directly relate to honesty, trustworthiness, and proper scope of authority. The option about failing to maintain residency is not one of the listed disqualifying factors, so it isn’t a stated reason for denial.