I am a convicted felon for auto theft in 1996. I do understand this will stay with me forever, however would this restrict me from obtaining a nursing license? I have come a long way since my conviction I currently possess a government secret clearance. Would that help persuade the nursing licensing board?
-Duane
This question was asked in the nursing forum section.
Kaylee says
Hello Duane,
I know that this is a very common question in regards to getting a nursing license. Generally, if you have a felony on your record of any kind most nursing boards will not give you clearance to sit for your nursing boards to get your nursing license. However, majority of nursing boards usually will allow you to submit in writing an explanation of your felony and they will make a decision on it.
But really you biggest obstacle will be getting a job. I know that almost all employers ask the common question: “Have you ever been convicted of a felony?” on their pre-employment screenings. So this may be a problem for you as well.
But I don’t want to say there is no way you could get your nursing license because it is always possible but you will have to plead your case and have others that are willing to vouch for you such as recent employers, professors, colleagues etc.
I wish you much luck and hope everything works out for you. I suggest you exhaust all of your options before you give up because as the saying goes “where there’s a will…there’s a way”!
Kaylee
LyletheCrocodile says
The answer above is great but I would email your state board of nursing. They usually respond quickly and it will give you a for sure answer.
Here is a list of state BON contact info:
https://www.registerednursern.com/board-of-nursing-list-by-state-registered-nurse-rn-nurse-boards/