School and past drug convictions

Nurses Criminal

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Hi...I live in California and I am starting school in two weeks, how ever I have past felony drug convictions from the year 2000. I have been clean and sober since. My concern is the background check. I know I have to be honest about it, but will that disqualify me from attending school and getting my lics.

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Specializes in Neuro ICU, Geriatric Rehab.

I don't live in CA so it may be different there, but I don't remember being asked anything about my past to attend school. Now when it came time for graduation and applying for my license and to take the boards they did ask about prior convictions. I don't think that answering the truth will disqualify you but b/c the issues were drug related you may very well end up on the BON's radar and require some evals and possible monitoring. However, to lie would cause a lot more trouble so as you mentioned, its not really an option. So good luck and I wish you the best!!

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Specializes in Community, OB, Nursery.

Questions we seem to be encountering more and more often have to do with the effects of a criminal history on nursing licensure:

Is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a criminal history?

Is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a MIP, DUI, or other related charges?

What happens if you are charged or convicted of a crime after licensure?

Can I go to nursing school and/or be licensed if my record has been sealed or expunged?

Will I be able to go to nursing school with a criminal record?

What can happen if I receive a MIP/DUI/DWI or other charge while still in school?

These are questions that the members of allnurses.com cannot answer. The only reliable source of information is your State Board of Nursing.

Thanks.

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