Notary Public Underwriters Blog
What Is Moral Turpitude and How Does It Affect Notaries?
- Details
- Published: June 22, 2026
“Conduct that is contrary to justice, honesty or morality.”
That’s the Black’s Law Dictionary definition of “moral turpitude.” In fact, Black’s further describes “moral turpitude” as “an act of baseness, vileness or depravity.”
Those character flaws are the extreme opposite of the honesty and morality standards required of a notary applicant or current notary. In fact, many states’ notary laws, rules and procedures dealing with applicant qualifications and screening specify “moral turpitude” as a disqualifying condition, and require commission applicants to disclose any crimes and convictions in their personal history.
What types of crimes or conduct qualify as acts of moral turpitude? A simple web search produces a helpful list of examples. In most states, these acts would disqualify a notary commission applicant or at least trigger a more in-depth review of the applicant’s eligibility:
- Dishonesty/Fraud: forgery, perjury, insurance fraud, identity theft, passing bad checks.
- Theft/Misappropriation: embezzlement, burglary, robbery, larceny (grand or petty).
- Official Misconduct: bribery, tampering with evidence, obstructing justice.
- Violent or Serious Offenses: sexual assault/rape, child abuse, kidnapping, murder, felony assault.
- Other Serious Crimes: arson, blackmail, willful tax evasion.
Crimes like these also cause existing notary commissions to be revoked. Notaries in many states must immediately report a crime or conduct that affects their eligibility to keep their commission… an even-tougher test of the individual’s honesty and integrity. Failing to self-report as required only adds to the notary’s (now growing) list of improper acts.
Always remember that, while it may be quick and easy to apply-for and receive a notary public commission in your state, the responsibility you’ve assumed under your notary commission is significant. Your every act and responsibility requires an unshakeable commitment to complete compliance, every day and in every way including honestly self-reporting all the necessary facts on your notary application.
Related Article(s)
A Notary’s Guide to Avoiding Costly Everyday Mistakes
What to Do When a Signer Is Confused or Pressured During a Notarization
Fighting Fraud: Why Notaries Should Avoid Using Signature Stamps
Tips to Protect Your Notary Stamp and Journal
Your Record Book Is Your Safety Net
How to Avoid Common Mistakes During a Notarization
When Can a Notary Use Personal Knowledge to Identify a Signer?
Does a Notary Need to See the Entire Document When Notarizing?
Can a Notary Correct a Mistake on the Notarial Certificate?
What to Do When There is Not Enough Space for the Notary Seal
Top Ten Mistakes That Notaries Make
Can a Notary Notarize a Family Member's Signature?