Applying for Nursing School, I have an old misdemeanor

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I will be 30 this spring, but got into some trouble a few months after I turned 21 and was changed with negligent driving in the 1st degree, this is not a traffic violation but a misdemeanor that suggests alcohol may have been involved. It was a huge mistake obviously, I'm not someone who goes around drinking and driving, I was just young and dumb and wasn't feeling well after having a strong drink but my friends convinced me I was fine since it was only one drink...the rest is history and haven't had so much as a speeding ticket since then.

I did contact the board of nursing before I started my prereques and was told that this could not prevent me from getting licensed. However, I'm still a bit worried it will prevent me from getting into my nursing program.

Anyone have any experience with this? I am supposed to submitt my application this spring. I do plan to disclose this ofcourse.

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Geriatrics, Wound Care.

I'd try to get it expunged, if you can. Since it is a "guilty" thing, it can make things into a hassle. Expungement can cost a little bit of money ($500-700), but may be worth it.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Keep in mind that a lot of BONs require that you report expunged charges. CA does.

Unfortunately, you can't alter time and undo what you did. What you can do is be honest about it and stress what you've learned and how you've grown from this mistake. Supporting documentation could also help, such as proof that you've completed a safe drivers' course, letters of recommendation attesting to your character, etc. After that, it's in the school's hands.

You're not the first nurse-to-be with a criminal record and you won't be the last. Best of luck to you!

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Thanks guys...also do you know if you have to disclose juvenile stuff? It just occurred to me I was changed with criminal trespass when I was like 15....but the charges were dropped. Basically I was hanging out on school grounds with some friends after hours and the police decided to hassle us, but the judge thought it was silly and threw it out.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

AFAIK you need only report convictions...facilities/BONs vary as to what they want you to disclose on top of that, though. You should really talk with a lawyer for the most accurate answer.

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Anyone with a criminal history will be nervous about the process until it is fait accompli. I had no trouble getting into NS, getting approvals from the clinical facilities, getting my ATT, passing the NCLEX, getting my license or getting a job. I had 3 misdemeanors in 2003. (theft by check)

Good luck and chill. :D

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