Many drivers in California don’t realize the far-flung impacts of a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). You can face jail time, fines, and driver’s license restrictions after a conviction. A DUI conviction in California can also hurt your medical school or nursing school application in some cases.
Find out how a DUI can impact your ability to apply for a medical or nursing school program here with the Simmrin Law Group. Review steps you can take to minimize this impact by calling (310) 896-2723 to speak with a legal professional.
DUIs Can Impact Admission to Colleges in California
The state of California does not prevent drivers convicted of a DUI from applying for college. However, each college or university has the right to set certain regulations on admission. Some colleges will not accept applicants with:
- A misdemeanor conviction
- A felony conviction
Note that medical schools – including those that offer nursing programs – may have stricter regulations than other educational institutions. You need to check the requirements for the program you want to attend to review their requirements for applicants. Some schools will not care if you were convicted of a DUI in California or not.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Reporting a DUI Conviction to Medical or Nursing School
Some medical and nursing schools in California will run a background check on potential students. They may also ask you to report any previous criminal charges on your record. It is very important that you are honest about any past DUI convictions. Lying on your application will damage your odds of admission.
You can impact how your nursing or medical school views a past DUI conviction. You may be able to demonstrate that you have changed since the time of your conviction, especially if it occurred long ago. Students improve their odds of admission by:
- Avoiding any additional DUI charges
- Completing alcohol treatment programs
- Focusing on community service and volunteer work
Showing personal growth after a DUI conviction can improve your chances of getting into a medical or nursing school in California.
Your NCLEX Exam and DUI Convictions in California
You should be aware that admission into a medical or nursing school is only the first step to getting a job in the healthcare field. In many cases, you will also have to seek certification before you can start work. You may need to complete an NCLEX exam to this end.
California requires all nurses to report any previous criminal charges before they can receive certification. The California Board of Registered Nursing will then review these charges before approving or denying your license. The Board may look at:
- The nature of your charges
- The severity of the crime
- The recency of your charges
- The rehabilitation you received
You’ll also have to present documentation regarding your DUI charges before you can apply for your license. Note that you can appeal a denial of your licensure. You can get help with this process by working with a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles. Call at (310) 896-2723 to find out more.
DUI Convictions and Jobs in the Medical or Nursing Career
So, let’s say that you got your degree from a medical or nursing school and achieved the proper licensure in California. A DUI conviction in the past can still impact your ability to secure the job that you want.
Most medical facilities will not hire applicants with a prior felony conviction, including those for DUI charges. Institutions that receive federal or state funding are most likely to refuse an applicant with prior convictions on their records. However, even an independent medical facility may deny your application if you have a DUI.
Note that you may be able to get a past DUI charge expunged in the state of California. Expungement removes the conviction from your record, though potential employers may still be able to see that the conviction occurred. Getting your DUI expunged could help you with admission to college and with getting a job in the healthcare field.
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A Lawyer Can Help You Handle a DUI Charge in California
A DUI conviction in California can hurt your application to a medical or nursing school. Make sure you handle DUI accusations right away to protect your future career. Resolving a DUI charge successfully can make it easier to get certified and find the job you want in the healthcare field. The Simmrin Law Group can begin working on your defense now with a FREE case evaluation.
Call us at (310) 896-2723 or complete our online contact form to talk to a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles immediately.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form