New York State Notary Practice Exam

Who is automatically ineligible for notary public appointment due to prior convictions?

1. Those convicted of theft

2. Those convicted of a violation of the selective draft act

3. Those who have defaulted on tax payments

4. Those who have committed fraud

The correct answer is: Those convicted of a violation of the selective draft act

The correct answer is related to specific legal prohibitions regarding eligibility for a notary public appointment in New York State. Individuals who have been convicted of a violation of the Selective Draft Act are automatically ineligible due to the nature of that offense, which is considered a crime against the state. The Selective Draft Act establishes provisions regarding conscription and military service, and violations reflect a disregard for civic duties, which is taken seriously in assessing character as a public official, such as a notary. In contrast, while theft, defaulting on tax payments, and fraud can impact one's character and may raise concerns during the application process, they do not automatically disqualify an individual from becoming a notary public to the same extent as violations related to military conscription laws. The New York State notary laws provide specific criteria for disqualification, and violations of laws with civic implications, like the Selective Draft Act, stand apart as categorically disqualifying.