Step by step...what was your process of applying for NCLEX with a DUI on your record?

[DevinTheGirl]

Hello,

I don't want to spend too much time explaining my DUI because I'm afraid that comes off as making excuses. Please know it is the biggest regret of my life and I fully understand how deeply I may have impacted my life and the lives of others the time I decided to drive drunk. I take full responsibility. I own it. But it is in the past now.

The event occurred out of state and has never shown up on any of the 5 background checks my school has conducted. It occurred in February 2017. I applied in May 2017. Convicted July 2017. Accepted in October 2017. Began January 2018. Graduating August 2019.

From what I've read, I need to obtain documents in sealed envelopes to present to the board. I do not understand if this is before or after I apply for NCLEX.

I'm not sure who to go to first for guidance during this process. I normally would go to one of my instructors, but I fear otherwise avoidable judgment or even punishment.

If you are wondering, I've completed all requirements including Drug & Alcohol classes, 72 hours of community service, 18 months probation, all fines and fees are paid. I live in South Carolina, my license was never revoked (just driving privileges in the state it occurred in).
A misdemeanor DUI is the only conviction or arrest I've ever had. Never even a traffic ticket.

I'm just wondering what did you guys do? Who did you tell? Who did you tell first? Who guided you through the process? I don't know if I should go to the BUN, an instructor, or even try to get in touch with my (insane) lawyer from way back then.

The assignment this week for one of my classes is to apply for the NCLEX and I just feel a little stuck on how to go about that. Any personal stories on the process of doing this are greatly appreciated. I'm trying to balance my transparency with my reputation and just don't want to tell someone I don't need to about this.

Thank you in advance!

[KCMnurse, BSN, MSN, RN]

Looks like your first step should be to contact the board of nursing to find out what their requirements are. Each one is different, and they are in the best position to advise you. Keep your head up - you have made it this far!

[Tigerfly82]

In California you apply to sit for the NCLEX via your application for licensure. When you apply, it is likely that you will be approved to sit for the exam but, your approval to sit for the exam will take much longer AND you won't get to know the results until the board decides your case.

In my case, I submitted all of the documentation you mentioned along with a psych eval and character reference letters. It took 8 months or so for my approval to take the NCLEX. It took about 18 months to get my license. I applied in June of 2015, took my test in March of 2016 and got my license in November of 2016.

I did not share my situation with any of my instructors until the last semester. I have no advice regarding this. What I will say is that any less than absolute remorse is not acceptable. It's not just "in the past" its very much in the present because the BON must determine whether you're fit to deal with the day to day decisions and struggles you'll be faced with.

Keep a good attitude. Put your ego away. Try to dismiss nothing. Be willing and ready to eat some crap, because this is the most humbling thing that you'll ever go through, until you're a licensed baby RN that is.

It's no one's business, but you're gonna need to prepare yourself for the self doubt that is already ensuing and will just get worse as the days pass in waiting. Don't be in fear, just be strong and open and humble.

[illinoisbound, BSN]

First of all--super similar circumstances and I'm licensed without restriction in Illinois.

Each board will be different, of course. I recommend if you have it in your resources to at least speak with a few nursing attorneys. There was one I spoke with in IL who was super helpful and I never spent a dime on those phone calls. I highly recommend getting state-specific information.

For IL, I had to apply for ATT, sit for NCLEX, provide all my documents to the testing authority and THEN to the nursing board for consideration. My letter of explanation was straight-forward and forward-looking.

Hang in there. My DUI was the best and worst thing that happened to me. I was scared that school would find out and I would not have a positive outcome. Be humble, be persistent, and document everything.