Can a Court-Martialed Person Become a Nurse?

Criminal convictions can cause denial of a nursing license.

The requirements for nursing licensure vary by state, but must follow federal training guidelines. Criminal and, in some states, financial background checks are conducted. A court martial would present in a licensure background check.

Criminal Background Check

Regardless of the state an individual attempts to garner a nursing license, a criminal background check will be conducted. A felony conviction will negate the chances for a candidate to gain approval for a license. Specific misdemeanor convictions can also cause a candidate to be refused a nursing license.

Arrests and Court Orders

Any arrest, conviction or treatment program which the state licensing board determines is an example of poor moral character may disqualify a nursing candidate. Depending on state guidelines, a financial background check or questionnaire may also be conducted. If a candidate is shown to have negected child support or court-ordered health insurance coverage for dependents, a license may not be issued.

Moral Character

The military code of justice and court martial proceedings will be taken into consideration during a background check. A state licensing board will determine if the military conviction was in opposition to the state's moral character clause. Potential candidates should speak with board representatives before registering for nursing classes.

References

• Nursing Criminal Background Check
• Kentucky Nursing Background Check
• National Board of Nursing Online License Verification
• Are You Eligible to Become an LPN