Can RNs with probationary licenses find jobs in CA??

[On_E]

Hi everyone,

I am a soon to be registered nurse with a probationary license and am wondering if any nurses with probationary licenses have been successful in finding jobs? If so, what kind of employment did you find and how did you go about tell your employer that your license was on probation?

I've been waiting a year now for my license and am excited to be able to start applying to RN jobs but the thought of my probationary license holding me back is heavy on my heart. Any advice or personal experiences shared is greatly appreciated. Thank you!!!

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Good news: yes, it's possible to get hired.

The very bad news: CA is oversaturated with both new graduates and experienced nurses. And with such a pool to choose from, any candidate with a blemish on their license is automatically at a disadvantage, because the employer knows they can choose from a lot of other candidates that don't have a disciplined license.

I would definitely apply for jobs though though...because if you try, there's always a chance. Whereas if you don't try, you definitely won't get hired. I don't know where you are in CA, but you may want to consider more inland/rural areas where competition is a little less fierce.

Your prospective employer will find out about your license when they go to the BRN site to verify it. So I would be prepared to address your license in the interview. Don't mention it in the cover letter--you want to get yourself in front of the interviewer so you can explain yourself. If you put it in the cover letter, they'll likely pass over your application without giving you a chance.

I sincerely wish you the best of luck.

[er_life88]

Where in ca are you located? I signed a stipulated agreement, which is currently pending approval, and my employer has no problem with hiring me with a probationary license.

[JamLVN225]

I'm dealing with the same problem in California, I just received my vocational nurse license, after being denied and appealing the decision. A process that took 2 years from my passing the NCLEX. I'm worried I may not be able to find a job because I am not able to expunge my charge until next year October.

[morningglory123]

Congratulations!!!! So happy for you both that made it through the appeal and are now looking for jobs! Good luck. I heard it can be hard but keep your head up and do what you can. I recently graduated and had to send in an appeal as well. Come back and post to tell about your success!!