How would you handle this?

elkpark · Aug 1, 2015

It used to be quite common to apply for jobs in a new state before you had (or had applied for, even) a new license, and it was no big deal for employers. With the employment market the way it's been for quite a while now, though, employers are getting so many applicants for each job that they are looking for ways to "thin the herd" of applicants and are a lot more picky. Many of them won't consider anyone who doesn't already have license in hand. But it's up to each individual employer -- you might get lucky, esp. if you have unusual experience or specialty. I certainly would not lie about my licensure status; if they happen to find out you did, that will be much worse for you than just not having applied for the license yet.

Best wishes!

calivianya, BSN, RN · Aug 1, 2015

I got hired in Florida before having my Florida license last year. It was as someone with a year of experience, though, and it was Florida. Most places aren't quite that desperate. I'd at least mention starting the paperwork in a cover letter if you don't actually have the entire application ready.

sippee · Aug 1, 2015

I agree you shouldn't lie about licensure. I would never do that. I meant to say more on the lines of " I'm on the process of achieving getting the licensure " but there's no way to document online application I agree a cover letter would be great but was unable to attach and now I cannot change or apply to the same position.

I was thinking of directly contacting the director and sending a formal resume win cover letter. Either is email or snail mail. Thoughts?? Going through a hospital HR is torture and you can never get a human to speak to!

edmia, BSN, RN · Aug 1, 2015

If you can get through to the director, go for it. You should say something like: MA licensure application in process.

Good luck!

Sent from my iPhone -- blame all errors on spellcheck