Hello, I am wondering if anyone can reassure me that I will be able to get my RN license in GA. I am currently starting my senior year of Nursing school, and am an honor student (I was chosen as student of the year at my school for 2008). I have a misdemeanor marijuana possession conviction from 13 years ago..I was young and stupid, and with the wrong crowd. I was accepted into nursing school and was told everything would probably be ok since the conviction was so many years ago. Of course my drug test was clean, and would be for any one who wanted to test me at any time. I can't help but worry that the state of GA will deny my application for licensure because of this...it is so embarassing...none of my classmates know and they would never believe it! Does anyone have any advice or insight? Georgia does not allow expungement of convictions of any type no matter how old, and I am stuck with this humiliating problem forever.
Jennifer
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June 21st, 2008 at 12:23 pm
J,
Several general (likely helpful) thoughts:
1. As I look at all the questions on the left hand side of this page, two stand out: DUI’s and misdemeanors from the past. Folks want to know if they’ll be dinged for current or past offenses.
2. It’s clear that each State Board of Nursing is unique. Each does things a bit differently. So the only way to know the truth is to make a bunch a phone calls to your state board. Good luck, though, in getting them to return your phone calls.
3. My guess is that you’re okay. I can’t base that on facts, other than these issues (DUI and past misdemeanors) are so murky. There are no clear guidelines that I’ve seen, anywhere.
4. Here is my last, unproven thought: I can’t imagine that the databases of Georgia are that integrated. That is, that your misdemeanor from 13 years ago can be connected to your application for your license. Obviously, the data of your conviction exists somewhere, but I doubt that Georgia will pull up those records in the process of giving you your license.
However, I would NOT lie about your misdemeanor. If at some point, you are ever asked on an application or some other form about past convictions, tell the truth. It’s better to deal with current reality than to live in the shadow of being found out.
In short, I think you’re in good shape.
June 21st, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Here are the Georgia Board of Nursing Guidelines as they pertain to violation of controlled substance. Here is what it says:
“IV. Violation of the Controlled Substance Act/ Substance Related Disorders
“The Board reviews any arrest related to a violation of the Georgia Controlled Substances Act with great concern. For example, an arrest for possession for marijuana or cocaine may cause the Board to suspect a substance abuse disorder and possible impairment of the ability to practice nursing with reasonable skill and safety. In such cases, the Board is authorized by law to order the applicant or licensee to submit to a mental/physical evaluation. The diagnosis of a substance related disorder could result in the Board denying licensure or in offering an applicant a Consent Order with a restricted license and probation. Such a diagnosis may also be the basis for license suspension or revocation.
“Felony convictions involving controlled substances and marijuana result in mandatory suspension or revocation of an individual’s license under O.C.G.A. § 16-13-111, as mentioned above. In all cases, the Board reviews the ability of the applicant to practice nursing safely.
“The Georgia Board of Nursing has a long and extensive history of promoting programs for nurses in recovery. The primary responsibility of the Board is to protect the public, but the Board is also committed to promoting the welfare of nurses. There are multiple resources to assist faculty and students in obtaining treatment for substance abuse in Georgia. The Board of Nursing supports all programs for nurses in recovery, including the Georgia Nurse Advocate Program,
supported by the Georgia Nurses Association (GNA).
“The Nurse Advocate Program has support groups and Nurse Advocates in most regions of this state. The main number for GNA is 404-325-5536, ext. 100 or 1-800-324-0462.
“The current Nurse Practice Act, law, and rules can be found at http://www.sos.state.ga.us/plb/rn
Like Dave said, if the issue does come up, be upfront about your past problem, and don’t shy away from evaluation to demonstrate your current health and ability to care for patients.
Best of luck.
Melissa
June 21st, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Thank you both so much. I will call the state board on Monday and post whatever I learn. I am praying that a 13 year old offense will mean that I will be allowed a license without having to go through the process of a mental/physical exam. At least I know that if I am required, they will find that I do not have any type of substance abuse disorder…and I will, hopefully, be allowed to pursue my dream of becoming an RN. At this point, I can hardly bear the thought of being denied, and I appreciate that you both took the time to help. Thank you!
June 23rd, 2008 at 8:36 am
People do things in younger years that does not mean they are always going to do them.
(Ask anyone who had a mullet)
You’ve been accepted by the nursing school seemingly in their full awareness of the misdemeanour.
If the board holds a 13 year old slap on the wrist against you for one off possession of MJ then they are probably hypocrites.
June 27th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
Just wanted to update you on what is happening. I called the GA Board of Nursing..they could only tell me to submit my application for review. Upset, I contacted the Nursing Director for my school. She reassured me that I would probably be ok, but might face a delay as the board reviewed my case. However, she urged me to contact an attorney again for help. The attorney advised me that I qualified for a pardon since my misdemeanor was so old! I have begun the proceedings, and am very hopeful! Thank you to all of you for helping to steer me in the right direction, and I will let you know how everything turns out.
July 1st, 2008 at 6:48 pm
I went through the same process of getting my nursing license with for a misdemeanor of providing alcohol to someone who was under the age of 21. I was barely 21 at the time and handed a beer to someone who was not 21 with some undercover officers around. My misdemeanor was much more current (about 3 years) from when I graduated nursing school. I had to submit my application for licensure and the Ohio Board of Nursing did do a more of a thorough job with my application…I had to submit a short essay describing my conviction along with a copy of my court records. From the point of passing the NCLEX, then submitting these extra papers I had my nursing license in less than two weeks! My tips…1-submit your application for licensure early then you can take care of any extras you need before you take the test. 2- I drove to my board of nursing to drop off the papers to ensure they would get them in a timely manner (I know this might not be realistic if you live far from your Board…) 3- BE PERSISTENT!!! I called the Board everyday to get updates. Good luck!
July 2nd, 2008 at 8:50 am
Did you have any problems with employment after you got your license? Do hospitals automatically discard your application if you list a misdemeanor? Even if I am granted a pardon, I will still have to list my conviction. Thanks!!!
July 17th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
I did not have a problem with employment. I was a tech where I became a nurse but I had marked my conviction when I first applied.
Just make sure you disclose everything!! I would contact the HR office of where you are applying to discuss their policies about misdemeanors and to tell them your story.
The judge I had when I was convicted told me that if I did not have any other convictions within a year I could get my misdemeanor completely off my record. I haven’t done that because it would cost too much for an attorney but you might want to look into that too (if you haven’t already).
Again, good luck and let me know what happens!
July 25th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
I think you got some good advice about this. I can only speak from what I’ve been tol by my school(a 2 year program in Texas), and they urge us to send in the forms to the BNE at the beginning of the program if we’ve had any kind of run-in with the law, no matter how long ago it was, (except maybe one routine traffic ticket..not a big deal, I guess), because they don’t want us wasting our time if we can’t get a license. I truly hope this isn’t the case for you, because I think life experiences can help people to become better nurses. The most important thing is to be honest with everything that happened and to do it before you get your license, because waiting to see if they figure it out after the fact looks like you are trying to hide something and that is really frown upon, and can result in getting your license revoked permanently (or with more expensive appeals necessary). I think I lawyer who specializes in this stuff (or maybe a faculty member who moonlights as a nurse legal consultant??) may be very helpful to you at this point. Good Luck!!!
July 30th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Shouldn’t it bother someone that old irrelevant crap is stirred up by people who should know better in this profession? If someone is a real criminal, that’s one matter, but a misdemeanor from 13 years ago should be totally forgotten as though it never happened. After all, where in the penalty for that misdemeanor was it stated that you would have to wear it for life like a cattle brand? Don’t own it, and if that becomes a problem, leave nursing for a profession that doesn’t try to stink up your life with irrelevant crap from the distant past. If you claim to be a criminal of any kind on one form, you’ll wind up having to do the same on every similar form from then on. There are enough narrow minded people in the population for that to cause you big problems.
July 30th, 2008 at 10:17 pm
I don’t think that not disclosing information is a good idea at all. I don’t know about anyone else but I had to submit a federal background check. If you don’t disclose your conviction and then something appears on your background check you can guarantee that you will have a hard time getting your license.
I agree that those of us with one thing on our criminal record may not be considered “criminals” but we did do something wrong at one point. I had no problem getting hired or getting my license because I did admit to my wrongdoing in a professional, honest manner. My boss even made the comment “everyone makes mistakes. It’s ok.” You will find your misdemeanor will not be a cattle brand…just a little blip in the way.. as long as you are honest up front!
November 20th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
I am 21 years old. I have a misdemeanor simple poss. charge of marjauna. And a Dui. they are probably about 2 to 3 years old now. I don’t blame anyone for this but myself. I wnat to go to nursing school to become a RN. I am a single mother of a great lil boy and I am trying to give him a good life but everytime i ask someone they say there is no use of trying. I live in North Carolina is there anyone that can give me some kind of advise?? PLEASE it would be so helpful.
November 30th, 2008 at 10:25 pm
I’m 24, I just started a nursing program in Ga and I start clinicals and found out about the background stuff. I pulled my background, and stuff that was supposed to be exponged was not so I have a 2 misdeameanors for (one at 17 one at 18) a possesion of alcohol, one marijuana at 17 cases where dismissed, and last year I got a DUi, but go to court next month, most likely reduced to reckless driving. All of these charges will forever haunt me and I don’t know what to do?? should I stop before I get too deep?? It’s my dream to be a nurse, I just am so worried. Any advice??
December 12th, 2008 at 1:53 am
How can I get ahold of the Board of Nursing to see if my possession 7yrs ago will let me be eligiable for my licensing?
December 15th, 2008 at 9:01 am
What they told us during nursing school was that if there is anything that may show up on a background check to just be honest. Write a summary of what happened. It may not work, but they said that they state boards will be more willing to license someone who was honest about their mistakes than someone who hides it.
January 3rd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
I am happy to come back with the latest update on my situation…I was hired as a nurse extern in a great hospital!! Now that I am 6 months from graduating I jumped at the news that a nearby hospital was hiring nurse externs. There were only 5 positions offered, and 4 had already been taken. I arrived at my interview dressed in my best suit with my clinical skills checklist in hand, references, and resume…they hired me on the spot! I was honest about my misdemeanor conviction from 13 years ago, and the nurse recruiter felt that enough time had passed. I can’t tell you how grateful I am since the recruiter said I was chosen from a large pool of applicants. They ran my background check, did a drug test, called my previous employers, checked my references, and got my transcripts from school…very thorough. I start the orientation process soon, and can’t wait. Not only will I gain valuable experience in many different areas of nursing throughout the hospital, but I have my foot in the door for when I actually graduate and pass the NCLEX exam. My only looming obstacle is being approved by the state nursing board, but I am hopeful that they, too, will grant licensure. I will let you all know when the time comes…best of luck to all of you, and I hope my story gives you hope!
January 12th, 2009 at 3:35 am
I’m in my last semester of Nursing school, wondering what is going to happen. I didn’t know this at the time time, but.. This is my situation. In 2004 I was arrested for a small amount of MJ, I went on a first time offenders program, completed it successfully, with random and monthly drug screenings, community service, and counseling, as set forth by my probation. At the end of the probation, The case was dismissed against me, and I do not have a criminal record, What I do have I suppose, Is a arrest record that will show up on the NCIC database. I can’t have this expunged until 2014. It must be ten years, and even then with no case there is nothing to expunge, maybe having the record of the arrest sealed is my only option. I don’t know how i will make it through the last semester with all the stress this is causing me. I worked so hard, and to see it go bye bye for a stupid mistake that will never happen again, is so dishearting. I didn’t know I had to list this, but reading over the actually paper work online, it looks like I do. I would be scared not to, in fear my application would be fraudulent . Do you think its likely I will be turned away from the board? Honesty is the best policy, Its just that when I heard the judge say case dismissed , I thought it was gone forever, I see now this is not the case…
Any advice or comments? Should I finish school or just give up totally…
January 20th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
I am currently taking classes to get in to x-ray school here in Aptos, Calif. I to have a misdemeanor conviction for spaking my child 12 years ago( who is now 15 and very well adjusted)it is also called a crime a moral torpedo. The word just makes me sound bad. 12 years ago was a rally hard time in my life and I have since changed and become someone so different. I even now counsel people with anger issues and pasts abuse(like myself). I have to apply even before entering x-ray school for the AART(which by the way is not even required in Calif) to see if they will grant me an x-ray license. I have been through this before when I got my real estate license and I ended up before a real estate legal panel proving with witnesses that I was morally deserving of a real-estate license and won. Although it was restricted and could be lifted to regular license in 3 years. So I know it is possible to win these things, but of course no one has the straight answer(whether is the board of licensing or even an attorney). I just want to know if there is anyone who has been through this in Calif who can tell what it was like or even advise me what to do. I have wanted this dream for 20 years and by the time I finish my prereq, wait on the list for 2 years to get in , and complete the program to take the license, it will be 16 years since the conviction. You would think it would not be a factor any more since my child will be grown and out of the house by then. I made a mistake and have paid for years for this, and am very sorry for that action. Since then I have not had any problems. Even went far above what the court required to get my self help. I hope and pray this does not stop me from my dream. If any one knows what to do,please let me know.
I don’t want to give up. Let me know.
Paula
January 23rd, 2009 at 9:46 am
Maybe you can get it expunged and be done with it.
January 23rd, 2009 at 10:37 am
Here is my advice that works for my. The BON licenses all entities pertaining to nursing so apply for a lesser license. I applied to BON for lvn, had no intention of taking test. The application I knew has to go to BON for approval. I put my English lit skill to use and explained the incidents that occurred i was 19 then 29 now. They asked me no questions AT ALL, they reviewed my paperwork and said “all in motion to grant ability to sit” no one denied. GLORY BE TO GOD! I just wanted to give you another option to pursue I couldn’t wait until the end of nursing school I needed to know that in May I would be able to test at nclex. I was looking at information about jobs which is what I was worried about when I seen to post that gave me hope. I wanted to give that hope to someone else today!
Try for a lesser license put a good packet together I had colleagues from past jobs, teachers, transcripts official and non official all in packet to BON, No problems at all
Next step job. I am just afraid Nurse Recruiters wont give me a chance but I have ALOT to offer way more than some of my other classmates I may add but I am sure they have no cloud over them but thats okay. Ive come this far……..
March 26th, 2009 at 3:07 pm
I am afraid to continue my nursing school because I have had four dui’s. The board of nursing will not issue me a cna license and I can understand. These have all been spread out through my adult lifetime. But they will never go off of my record. I have been through outpatient and aa and other extra classes to help me and my situatiion. I have never been introuble at work or have had problems in that area. I talked to the board of nursing and I told her of this concern with finishing my rn degree and then not being able to get my license. She did mention that the longer time went by for me showing I have stayed out of trouble. That this would be a better chance for me to retake back before the board. I would have to show what I have done and what I am continuing to do to change these behaviors. She didnt advise me not to continue So this is just a chance i have to take and risk a lot by going to school for years. I have to take. It could go eather way. I am sorry for what I have done and I am not proud of this. But It sure doesnt pay in more ways than one. Im sure that I will hear lots about my pattern and I am well aware of this being wrong. I have and am still paying for what I have done. And yes I am thankful I didnt hurt any one or myself.
April 7th, 2009 at 3:45 pm
I live in NY and have 3 traffic misdemeanors for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle…..does anyone know if you have to disclose traffic misdemeanors? i also have a marrijuana violation it is not a misdemeanor or felony just a violation do i have to disclose that to get my RN does anyone have any information? the board of nursing is to hard to communicate with!!!
April 21st, 2009 at 4:39 pm
Hey all! I am contemplating on going to nursing school after I get my BA in Psychology. Looking to do an accelerated BSN program. I recieved a DWI about 2 yrs ago but didnt get charged until a year ago. I completed probation and a SAE.. in which they found i have no abuse problems.. isolated incident. I am in Tx were the DWI can not be expunged. Is there a chance I could get into nursing school?? and get a job afterwards?? Thanks all!
May 2nd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
I’m a Registered Nurse in North Carolina. In 2007 I was convicted of a misdeamenor, actually 2 counts of Harrasing Phone Calls. In 2008, or 13 months later I sailed through the licensing, with some anxiety. Passed NCLEX 1st try. Was licensed a week later. My advice is to go for it to anyone with any anxiety about the issue. There are some exception however, such as if you’ve been convicted of assualt or other “crimes” which may have caused injury. Check your states Boards information booklet/ practice guidelines. The one obstacle I have found is that most hospitals will not hire you until 5 years post conviction. I got lucky in that repect and went for-profit hospital. I think they will hire anybody. lol. Oh and Nursing homes.. I hope this helps.
May 6th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Im currently a student at EKU. Im so nervous about getting into the Nursing Program because Im a couple of points from the required g.p.a and also I have a misdeameanor in theft by unlawful taking which I had nothing to do with. I was with a friend who had stolen, and since I was with her at the time, they charged me! It happened when I was 18, Im almost 21 now. Will this effect my chances of getting into the Nursing program?
May 20th, 2009 at 5:59 am
….Um, does anyone know what happened to Jennifer?
May 20th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
I will graduate in June..yeah! I will keep you updated as I apply to take state boards. I will be submitting a formal letter of explanation with my application..both my program director and the hospital I work for expect, at the most, a delay in being approved. I am nervous, but hopeful, that the state board of nursing will recognize that my misdemeanor charge is 13 years old and allow me to sit for the NCLEX. I already have an RN position waiting for me where I am working now..just need that license! I will let you know what happens…
June 10th, 2009 at 4:54 pm
I am currently licensed in GA, NY and NJ. However, I graduated from nursing school in 2007. after graduation I was hit by a drunk driver and suffered life threatening injuries. It took about a year and half to completely rehabilitate. 12 years ago I was convicted of conspiracy to distribute marijuana. I was wrongfully convicted,a boyfreind was the distributer and I was caught up with him at the wrong place at the wrong time. However, I did have some idea that he was up to something illegal but I never thought his wrong doings would affect me.I never admitted
to guilt but was found guilty by a jury. I recieved and completed probation. I am currently in the state of NY and haveing a hard timwe finding a job bc of the hospitals closing in the city. I am still considered a new graduate and almost 2 years have elapsed from my graduation from nursing school. I have a strong educational backgroud including a MS in healthcare. I however need some nursing experience and I am cvoncerned thatr hospitals will not hire me bc of my conviction eventhough the government issued me the license. I am thinking about going to the atlanta georgia area. I was wondering if anyone knew any hosipitals or nursing homes in or around that area that would be willing to take on someone like myself. Please let me know if you have any suggestions on where to apply. I have to be honets about my conviction because I don’t want to look like a liar and that I have something to hide beacause I don’t. I don’t want to have that cloud hanging over my head in fear that my employer will eventually find out and I lose my license because I didnm’t tell the truth. I just don’t want to waist my time applying anywhere that would not even consider giving me a chance. PS. Also if anyone knows about placwes in the NJ area that would consider hiring me. Thank you so much for any information or help you can offer me.Also, to those who feel they will not get the license, there is hope. Once you write your explanation of the incident and it is a one time time thing, and enough time has elapsed from the time of conviction most boards will take all of that inot consideration and issue the license. The background check that they do is pretty6 extensive so I wouldn’t lie to the board because they will find out and reject your application. I am just worried about the employers.
July 22nd, 2009 at 11:54 pm
I am a new grad in IL currently awaiting the review of my license. I too, passed NCLEX and was sent a temporary license 2 weeks later. I was hired almost immediately at a hospital and was 2 weeks away from beginning orientation when I received this letter saying I was prohibited from practicing due to my criminal background check. Nearly 5 years ago I was arrested for the possession of marijuana and cotrolled substance (both felonies). Similar to the previous writer, I was 19 years old and mixed up with the wrong boyfriend. I made a plea agreement which required me to complete 2 years of probation which included a substance abuse evaluation and numerous random drug screens. Upon completion of probation, the charges were dismissed and I was left with no conviction, however during the federal background check the actual arrest still came up. I have sent the board a 3 pg letter describing my story and also the many changes I have made in my life since this happened, however it has been a month and I still have not had my license granted or denied. I am so nervous, this all I think about day and night. Is there anyone out there who has any kind of advice?
July 23rd, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Karli,
Just hang in there. I would obtain a lawyer and gather the official paper work from the courts. I would not send the board anything but the official paperwork by a lawyer of the incident.
You need to gather all the paperwork you had submitted to the nursing board (including application) and give a copy to a lawyer. I would suggest not to have any contact verbal communications with the nursing board.
I hope you did check the box of previous felonies on the application for the Nursing license and hospital applications. Secondly, you gave an explaination for each felony in the past. Lastly, you described the outcomes of the courts’ decision.
If they need any additional official paperwork of the above that you will be able to provide it upon written request.
I hope you did not over look the box because the state board of nursing may see it as falsery or a lie. Always tell the truth no matter what.
Please obtain a lawyer and follow his/her instructions.
Good Luck..Keep all written notes, applications, and materials.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
I am 23 almost 24 I just went back to school and I want to be a rn. I have 2 misdemeanors in ky for possesion of mj and domestic violence 5 and 6 years old do you think this will knock me out of being a rn? I live in houston tx by the way!!!
August 17th, 2009 at 11:45 pm
Im sitting for Inclex!!!!
August 22nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
what if you have a MJ misdemeanor that involved some jail time?
August 27th, 2009 at 5:28 pm
Well, the board let me sit for the Nclex and I passed..woo hoo! Now I am waiting..and waiting..for the board to decide my case. Does anyone know how long the Georgia BON takes to decide?? All they will tell me is that everything on the application is complete except for resolution of my legal review…and there is no time frame they follow to decide…ugh! I have signed a contract as a new grad RN with the hospital, but can’t start precepting without a license. The wait is agony, but I have to believe God has brought me this far..He won’t leave me now.
September 5th, 2009 at 3:20 am
I am an RN with licenses in two states. I received a DUI in a third state when on vacation that was lowered to reckless driving. My license in the state in which I do not live is up for renewal. I keep reading to tell the truth to the BON, but what are the chances they will find out since it’s just a renewal? How would they find out? They suspended my license for not charting assessments when I was sent home after 4 hours although I charted VS, FSBS, updated care plans, etc. So, I don’t trust them now and think it would be stupid to bring it to their attention. I would rather them find out 10 years from now then now.
September 6th, 2009 at 11:59 pm
I have a 4th degree misdemeanor for falsification (failed to notify the unemployment bureau I was working) while collecting benefits. I have made full restitution and have not made this mistake again, while having received unemployment twice since this has happened. It has been over 10 years. I have recently had it expunged and I am starting my first term in nursing school and will some day be applying for my license in Ohio. I know that Ohio has qualifying offenses, I just hope this does not keep me from finding good employment after I’ve completed nursing school.
Wish me Luck!
Thank you.
September 7th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
I really wish you luck! Hugs
September 9th, 2009 at 8:20 am
Jazz,
I have been hired at a hospital in Georgia with full disclosure of my misdemeanor for mj possession…but I got the interview first before telling them. The interview went really well and then I had the opportunity to reveal and explain my past…the recruiter felt that the conviction was so many years ago that it was not a problem. The position was for a student nurse extern, and now that I have graduated and passed boards they offered me a position as an RN, as well. Now I am just waiting for the board to review my case and decide my fate..you have given me hope that all will end well. It has been several weeks and I am miserable waiting for their decision…how long did it take for the board to decide your case??? My advice is to try and apply in person rather than online, if possible, so you will have the opportunity to explain your past rather than be dismissed because of it..good luck!
September 10th, 2009 at 7:15 pm
I have my license!! Praise God! I can now begin my career as a nurse, and I have signed a contract to begin working on the Oncology floor. I am so grateful…and find it so rewarding to take care of Oncology patients. At the end of the day I know I have made a difference, and that is why I love being a nurse! Good luck to all of you who have overcome mistakes and don’t give up!
September 12th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Hi, I have a misdeamenor or decep practice which I pleaded in my case just to get it over with (the checks were $25.07, $34.71 and $32.89). Nothing major ~ I also have a ordinance violation for our city for something very minor (OV is for burning on wrong day for leaves). I am now seeking my CNA and am in school full time to become a RN still working on my pre reqs. Will these things not allow me to be licensed? I am so nervous now after reading the above stories…I am 33 years old and the company i worked for closed down. I’ve always wanted to be a nurse but life did not allow it prior ~ I hope my stupid finances at the time does not affect my future.
September 24th, 2009 at 10:57 am
When I was 19 years old I was arrested for CC fraud. My friend found a cc and I signed for it. I of course was the one they put charges on. It was my first and only arrest or record. I am now 36 yrs old and want to become a nurse. I was told that they prob will not accept me in the program. Is there anyone who had a misdemeanor of similar and became an RN? I hear the board of nursing is the hard part to get by.
October 1st, 2009 at 4:52 pm
I’m 50 years old and was convicted of a felony 16 years ago. The charge was sales and deliver of a controlled subtance (cocain). Now I am in my last semester before entering the nursing program and i’m afraid that on passing and applying for my license they will turn me down. Can anyone say how many years they go bach?
October 21st, 2009 at 11:44 am
Good Luck to all of you guys, but let me say if you were to try to get your nursing license in Florida the answer is no. I just enrolled in nursing school and was kicked out do to my background of simple peti theft. They are no longer taking anyone with anything on their record. In Florida you can be arrested and found innocent, and it will still show up on your record, so if you want to get in trouble don’t do it in this state.
November 4th, 2009 at 3:24 am
Karli, what happened in your case?
November 15th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Has anyone been under the first offender act in the state of Georgia? I was wondering if you could get your RN license..
November 17th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
Am 26 years of age i currently live in nyc. but my conviction was at theage of 18 which was for retail theft i did three nights in jail and about one month probation it was in PA for conspiracy retail theft. ive been trying to get mylife back on track ever since ive trien hha and was denied i want to go for my cna i spoke with a lawyer n they said i can probably get my record pordan. but what i am asking is? does any one with a similar background who lives in nyc got any job or any advice to where i can go take my cna or apply for a job without bein turned down?
November 20th, 2009 at 1:04 am
I am in Cali, but also was convicted of misdemeanor petty theft 20 years ago. I recently received my CNA license, but was originally denied and had to send in a lot of paperwork! I included a personal letter of what happened, when it happened and what I have been doing since then, and also had to include proof of dismissal of the misdemeanor. I also had two previous employers write character references for me. It took about 3 months, but I was granted the license. I agree with the above people about being honest when you are applying for a nursing job as they do perform a full background check (in California it is required) on all applicants (and it will show up regardless of whether or not it was dismissed or expunged).
Good luck to everyone!!
January 14th, 2010 at 6:50 pm
I am in Texas. I graduated from nursing school in Dec 09. I am waiting to hear from enforcement. I have a misdemeanor for destructive/removal of writing that occured in july 06. My case was dismissed. I am waiting anxiously to hear from the Bon enforcement about my permit. Without a permit I am not allowed to test for NCLEX. Enforcement received all my court documents, fingerprints, letter describing the incident, etc in OCT 09. Does anyone know how long it takes to hear from enforcement??
January 15th, 2010 at 4:31 pm
I have been a CNA for 2 years now, and have had several CNA jobs already. I have a background with felony and misdemeanor arrests from 2001 to 2003, all due to the same charge. Although all the felonies were dropped (thank God), a conviction/misdemeanor remains on my record for simple poss of cannabis.
The board knows about my arrests and conviction, and they never questioned me. I didn’t have to send in any paper work or anything, they just sent my license in the mail. They saw how old my conviction was, and it wasn’t a felony. I have renewed this year and a new background was run, and I received my license.
It all depends on the time frame from the last arrest and if they are felonies.
I was clean then, and I’m clean now.
That’s what happens when you had a idiot drug head boyfriend who stays in and out of prison still to this day, and wants you to put his drugs in your purse and the police pulls you over. I was an idiot for being with a guy like him in the first place, and I should have known better.
That was a long time ago, and I’m married with a good life now, but I have to live with a conviction of something I should have never been around and never liked in the first place.
Bottom line is, there is alot of hope for people who have past records. I was so worried my background would interfere with my CNA license, but it didn’t. Now I’m going to be starting school hopefully this December for my LPN, and I still worry about my background causing trouble with the school, or clinicals in the future, I can’t help but to still wonder if my background will stop me from something I really want in life. The punishment never really ends.
Thanks for letting me vent..
Good luck to everyone!
January 20th, 2010 at 8:05 pm
Hello, I am in Florida. My RN license was revoke in 2006 for diverting narcotics. I was arrested and charge with burglary wich is a felony.
The BON had previously placed me on probation for diverting morphine, so after the arrest they revke my license. does anyone have knowledge of a new law in Florida that apperently says noone with a felony charge can obtain a nursing license? is this true, or is it case by case decision by the BON. Like it used to be. I was not convicted nor adjudicated and did probation. I can find out was is the true. I know the BON is the one that can answer that, but I havent worked out the courrage to call.
I completed a 1 year residential recovery programm at a christian center in Miami and I really would like to be a nurse againg.
Thank you,
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:51 pm
Had a mj charge 35 years ago, paid the fine, didn’t think much of it. Didn’t keep me from getting an MD degree. Didn’t keep me from getting a license in Ga., I did have to take random drug tests for 5 years for a SC license. Didn’t keep me from being hired over the years. However, I tired to get a job with DHR (not the first time), but now I can’t get hired due to the guilty plea for a joint more than half my life ago. Go figure. They pay less than what I am getting now, anyway.
January 28th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
I may end up being convicted/charged with a misdemeanor dv simple assault charge. First ever offense. I acted in self defense. Caused the abuser a small scratch. But he ended up having me arrested. I am living in NC, but looking for LPN jobs in WV. Will I be losing my license? How does this work? Can I appeal? I have never faced anything like this before and it was a relationship that has gone bad. I am very scared.
February 8th, 2010 at 5:03 am
I am soo relieved after reading several of these responses, i was worried that i would not be accepted to nursing school for a charge marijuana charge that i got 10 years ago its not a misdemeanor or a felony so i guess i should be fine!! I have always been a straight A student and was praying that this wouldnt hinder my goals, thank you thank you
February 11th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
Reading all of these responses scares the heck out of me but comforts me at the same time. I am comforted by the fact that there are people out there in a similar boat as me, but scared that I may never get my license. I live in CA but have a petty theft charge from WA from 10 years ago and two DUI’s from CA one 7 years old and one 5 years old. I was young and very stupid. I have learned a lot from my mistakes and when the last DUI happened, I vowed to turn my life around.
The CA board of nursing does not give you a definitive answer on whether or not they will grant a license to someone with these offenses. So it is a serious gamble. I am graduating from a very expensive nursing school in June at the top of my class and all I can think about is if I have done all of this for nothing. I am so scared that I will never get my license. I spoke with the dean of my school and she was pretty certain that getting my license wouldn’t be a problem. I forgot to tell her about the petty theft charge though. To be honest, I did not think it was that big of a deal or that it would even come up. But after calling the courts, I am realizing that my 10 year old petty theft charge from stealing bras at Mervyn’s when I was 18 is a problem. And may be the reason why I do not get my license.
I am plagued with so many negative thoughts and cannot stop beating myself up over this. If anyone has any advice for me I would greatly appreciate it.
February 22nd, 2010 at 1:49 pm
This is a strange one: I was (stupidly) arrested for Public Intoxication while passing through a Midwestern state on a road trip 4 years ago.
They charged me with a misdemeanor but the court date was a month off- i had no way to get home to the East Coast if i’d stuck around (ride would have left w/o me), so i never showed up. So i was never convicted, and i have no other criminal record, but there may be a failure to appear warrant out there….
Anyway I want to apply for an RN program in Florida. My thoughts are I’ll order a copy of my own FBI background report, and see if it still shows up- if so, i’ll have to fly back there and take care of it.
Any other advice? Thanks….
-j
February 24th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
I can’t believe how many criminals here are or are trying to become nurses. It beggars belief!! Nursing is an honourable profession, where people put their complete trust in us, and you bunch of criminals should never be allowed near patients. Drugs, theft….. WTF is wrong with you people????
February 25th, 2010 at 6:59 pm
Wow, what a nasty comment from Disbelief. I have now been working as a nurse for the past 7 months on an Oncology floor, and am completely devoted to the care of my patients. I love being a nurse, and was just named nurse of the month for having the highest patient satisfaction scores. I am grateful that the Board of Nursing decides each case on an individual basis, so that excellent nurses are not eliminated by blanket judgements.
March 2nd, 2010 at 1:01 am
Disbelief, i disbelieve that someone is reading forums that do not pertain to them…
There are many reasons for people’s missteps, be happy that ppl are trying something positive. In my case, from the age of 17-22 i’ve commited a six shopliftings and one simple possesion of controlled substance. (all misdermeanors) I didnt even have a GED back then.
But i turned around my and know that there are many people who will applaud our effort to be a productive citizens.
Now i’m eight years from my last arrest and a straight A student in a Nursing Program. I spoke with Office of Professional Discipline and they said that if everything is the way I told them, then do not worry and focus on the studies. So do not get dicouraged. If there is no clear prohibition and if there a time barrier – go for it!
March 7th, 2010 at 10:06 pm
I have 2 misdameanors; buying alcohol for underage. 1 misdameanor; bad check which was paid when I went to court. 1 misdameanor that was reduced from a felony with a plea agreement for simple assault. This was all from 2003 to 2007 and I haven’t been into any troub;e at all since Jan. 2007. I am in RN school and will graduate in the state of VA. I am an LPN but I’m not working while I’m in school. I’m really worried about whether or not I’ll be allowed to sit for boards and then will I be able to get my license. I have been an LPN for 22 years. I have an attorney trying to get a pardon on tha assault charge but I haven’t been successful as of yet and I’ve been working on it for 2 years. Does anyone know anything to help me?
March 9th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
Hey all. Nearing end of lpn school and found out the initial background check was a seven county check. In the neighborhood so to speak. Now I’ve submitted for the national and know that a simple battery charge from 1989 will show up. Never lied on app. to get into school. Know that the state boards frown on that but Ga wont drop or seal the charges. Live in Tn now. So what I’ve gone through this whole school to be nipped in the bud at the end. Anybody got a story or advice to share bring it on. I’m really upset that the school led me to believe there was not a problem. What do you all think my chances are.
March 10th, 2010 at 9:10 pm
LMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!