just for reference.

[cuddl3bugg]

Hello everyone!

I'm interested in enrolling in the LVN program in my area, but, was very hesitant to do so because of my past I have a misdemeanor petty theft. Anyway, I went to the school anyway and told the admissions lady about my case right away, she said that it was a good thing I'm being honest with her. But now they have to do a background check on me because of that. I had e-mailed the BVNPT so I can get some answers and put my mind at ease, this is what she said:

Dear Ms. ......:

The Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (Board) has received your inquiry regarding the effect of a previous conviction on your ability to become a licensed vocational nurse. Business and Professions Code Section 480 authorizes the Board to deny licensure for convictions of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, and duties of a vocational nurse. For example, conviction of any crime involving misconduct, abuse, fiscal dishonesty, illegal possession or use of dangerous drugs, or driving under the influence of a drug or alcohol, are grounds for disciplinary action by the Board. However, when considering the denial of a license, the Board considers the past criminal history of the applicant (as a whole) and the current state of their rehabilitation, if applicable. In determining an applicant's fitness to practice, the Board takes several factors into consideration:

* Age at the time of the violation.

* Nature of the violation (violent/financial/drugs/alcohol).

* Multiple violations of a similar nature.

* Evidence of rehabilitation.

* Time that has elapsed since the violation.

* Did the applicant provide factual information?

* Did applicant provide all documents requested on the Record of Conviction Form?

* Did the applicant disclose all violations on the Record of Conviction Form?

As part of the application packet, you will be required to complete a Record of Conviction Form. You must identify all convictions (even if they have been expunged) on the form as well as provide certified police reports, certified court documents, a letter detailing the circumstances surrounding each of the violations and any other proof of course completion or rehabilitation programs ordered by the court or self-referred. When considering all of the above factors, each and every case is different, thus the Board would be unable to make a final decision on the application for licensure until such time as one applies for and passes the examination.

hope this helps most of you! :)