Interim Permit on Resume

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Mar 26, 2009

Why wouldn't you list it? Many employers offer some kind of benefit for taking and passing the NCLEX. How will you explain you want this benefit later if you never disclosed it on your resume and application? An Interim Permit tells a facility that you completed nursing school and are ready to take the NCLEX. It is also your license to practice. As an Interim Permitee you are able to practice as an RN under the supervision of an RN employee appointed by your employer. As a former manager I would look at it as unethical for you to get a job and not disclose that you have this licensing status. Believe me, the people in the facility know exactly what an Interim Permit is and what you are allowed to do and not do with it.

Jolie, BSN · Mar 26, 2009

I have a slightly different take on the issue.

I think it is fine to list something to the effect of: "Interim permit effective 1-1-09." But I would not give the specific permit number (or license number, once you have one) on a resume. I think that invites identity theft and fraud.

It is the employer's legal responsibility to verify the authenticity of a new hire's permit or license with the BON. You may be asked to provide your permit number to your manager or HR in order for this to be done. Once verified, your licensing information will be kept in your HR file, which should be kept in a secure location in the hospital, under lock and key or at least under the watch of responsible employees.

But resumes and cover letters are not treated with the same level of security. They may be read and tossed in the trash, making them available to unscrupulous people who may wish to steal someone's identity. For that reason, I suggest not listing specific personal information such as nursing license #, driver's license # or SSN on a resume.

caliotter3 · Mar 26, 2009

In the past, I have filled out applications that requested the license number. Now that I think about it, I shouldn't have provided it since the license can be verified without this info.

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Mar 26, 2009

Many employers just go online with your license number to verify that it is an active license. My actual hard copy license says, Do Not Copy on it. Today, your identity has to be verified with a photo ID and you have to be fingerprinted as well by most state boards and employers. It is extremely difficult for someone to pass themselves off as a licensed nurse if they are not one.

Jolie, BSN · Mar 26, 2009

It is extremely difficult for someone to pass themselves off as a licensed nurse if they are not one.

Difficult, but not impossible. No need to make it easier by unwittingly handing over a license number via the trash can.

Also, with access to one's resume and license number, it is possible to play all kinds of havoc with another's personal life, such as contacting the BON to change an address, applying for credit in the nurse's name at the new address, etc. I know of that happening as well.

Just recommending caution since it is perfectly acceptable to provide the license or permit number in person or in writing in a more secure setting.