California BRN Horror story

Published

I am a recent graduate of a bay area nursing program and I have been waiting for my ATT for almost 6 months. I have called the BRN at least once a week for the past three months and get different stories every time I call up there about why my application is taking so long. Every time I call them they connect me with a voice mail, every time leave my contact information I get no response. I do have a few misdemeanor convictions for marijuana and drinking underage from the late 90's in my home state and realize that it could take longer for my application to be processed because of this but six months is ridiculous.

The most recent correspondence that I have received from them was from the enforcement division stating that I was cleared and they were sending my application to licensing division for processing. When I called them today the woman that I talked to said there was no record of my application being returned from the enforcement division.

I'm so frustrated. I feel defeated and dejected and have had to renew my Kaplan nclex prep with 250$ that I don't have. My student loans are starting to come due and I can barely afford my rent and food. I am volunteering at a hospital that would probably hire me but can't because I haven't taken my boards yet. I also received a letter from the California department of corrections about a job at San Quentin that I can't do anything about either. What should I do?

Does anybody else have a similar story to mine? Or had a similar experience?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

A "few" misdemeanor convictions? Are you positive that's not going to keep you from obtaining your license? Did you go to a school that did a background check, or did you attend one that was happy to take your money, regardless of whether or not you can get licensed?

I'm sorry to hear you're going through this. I can only imagine your frustration.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

My school was City College of San Francisco their background check went 7 years back. Its been almost 15 years since I was in trouble and I've never been convicted of a felony. I'm 36, one of my charges was for underage drinking. I don't believe the record is a problem.

I provided all of the documentation that the BRN required. One of my classmates had an underage drinking charge that happened much more recently and she's already taken her NCLEX. I'm just wondering if this has happened to other people because when I called Kaplan to have my prep course extended I explained my situation the guy to the sales rep. He said that this isnt the first time he's heard of this happening and alluded that when it does happen it's often students in california.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.
My school was City College of San Francisco their background check went 7 years back. Its been almost 15 years since I was in trouble and I've never been convicted of a felony. I'm 36, one of my charges was for underage drinking. I don't believe the record is a problem.

I provided all of the documentation that the BRN required. One of my classmates had an underage drinking charge that happened much more recently and she's already taken her NCLEX. I'm just wondering if this has happened to other people because when I called Kaplan to have my prep course extended I explained my situation the guy to the sales rep. He said that this isnt the first time he's heard of this happening and alluded that when it does happen it's often students in california.

I hate to say this, but you might have to start over with the application process. When it's been 6 months, you don't have anything to lose (except the time and money you have to put into doing this again). You're right- that's a reputable program (there are so many out there that don't care as long as you pay, that's why I asked). Yours is one of the few situations that I'd say it might be worth a trip to Sac.

Was Kaplan nice enough to extend without charging you, at least?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Make a copy of everything and make a trip to Sacramento to visit the Board in person. Do not go on Monday or Friday. Arrange your trip so that you arrive early in the day and go prepared to spend a great deal of time there. At this point, it can not hurt.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Emergency, Trauma, Critical Care.

I have to voice others and they tend to be much more attentive when you show up in person. If they're giving you the run around regather everything with a new completed application and hand it to them. Ask (nicely, they are more helpful if you are nice) an approximate date of completion or whatever info they can give you. I'm sorry you are going through this and I hope it's resolved for you soon.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hello DemianDelRio, I was wondering what happened to your case.

Ps. Was it hard for you to get a job btw?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi DemianDelRio,

I am wondering what ever became of your case? I am currently going back and forth with the CA BRN in a similar manner. Super frustrating! I'm hoping I hear something from them this next week. I am suppose to call again if I do not hear from them in 3-5 business days.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion