DWI Automatic Disqualifier for Initial License??

[southern man]

hello all,

I am very interested in making a career change into nursing. Unfortunately, I made one terrible mistake after a company function about three years ago and was charged with a DWI. My question is, is this an automatic disqualifer? I would think they would look at other circumstances surrounding the incident. The rest of my record is squeaky clean, not even a speeding ticket. Your insight would be greatly apprecitated. I am just trying to learn as much as I can at this point before I apply for school.

[2ndCareerRN]

One of my classmates got a DWI while in school. This was in Oklahoma. He did get a lawyer, and had to jump through several hoops with the board, but, in the end he had to wait 1 year following his conviction to sit for the boards. He was finally able to pass NCLEX and is now working in the field.

So, I would say you need to contact the Board of Nursing in your particular state and ask them what their policy is. Make sure you get it in writing.

I don't think a DWI is going to keep you from going into nursing.

bob

[southern man]

thanks so much for the insight....that is very encouraging news!!