Can you get a job as a nurse with a misdemeanor?

Asked by: Linnie Gleason  |  Last update: August 8, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (62 votes)

It is possible to become a nurse with a misdemeanor on your record, but this depends on factors such as the nature of the offense, the state where you are applying, and how recent the conviction is.

What jobs will not hire you with a misdemeanor?

Committing theft, fraud, or dishonesty as a misdemeanor may make it hard to get a banking position. Having a misdemeanor drug offense could negatively affect your chances of landing a nursing job or a position in the medical field.

Do hospitals hire nurses with misdemeanors?

The California Board of Registered Nursing reviews criminal convictions on a case-by-case basis. However, sex offenses, violent crimes, failing to follow reporting requirements, and fraud may prevent a candidate from working as a nurse in the state.

Can a misdemeanor stop you from working?

Misdemeanors might seem like minor offenses, but they can significantly impact your ability to find a job and keep it. In California, employers have the right to conduct criminal background checks on potential hires, and certain misdemeanors can raise red flags during the hiring process.

Can you get a job in healthcare with a misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor conviction is not an absolute disqualifier for a job in the healthcare industry. However, it will be at the discretion of your employer as to whether they will hire you.

Help! I have a Criminal Record or Felony. Can I Become a Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a Nurse?

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Can a job reject you for a misdemeanor?

State and federal laws prohibit California employers from discriminating against applicants based on race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Being convicted of a misdemeanor does not necessarily preclude you from obtaining work in California.

Will I pass a background check with a misdemeanor?

In California, a background check will typically reveal if somebody was convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, such as common crimes like driving under the influence (DUI) or Penal Code 243.4 PC domestic battery.

Do jobs look at misdemeanors?

Can Employers Ask About Misdemeanors in California? There is no bright-line rule that prohibits employers from being able to ask a job applicant about misdemeanors, as long as the misdemeanor resulted in a conviction.

Can you work for Amazon with a misdemeanor?

Criminal history: Misdemeanor and felony records or charges related to theft or fraud can disqualify you. Health and drug screenings: These tests for substance and drug abuse. These are not always required for Flex positions, but are offered by Amazon's partner, Accurate.

Does a misdemeanor affect credit score?

Basically, a misdemeanor will not directly impact an individual's credit score, but the consequences resulting from a misdemeanor charge can drain a person's finances and cause that person to rack up debt.

What charges disqualify you from being a nurse?

Crimes that the Board of Registered Nursing considers to be related to the qualifications of a license include, but are not limited to; assaultive or abusive conduct; theft, dishonesty, fraud or deceit; drug related crimes; procuring a license by fraud, misrepresentation or mistake; and practicing medicine without a ...

What can stop me from being a nurse?

Nursing Program Disqualifying Factors

Major misdemeanor conviction for crimes involving weapons, violence, embezzlement, dishonesty, misappropriation, fraud or sex crimes. Any felony conviction. More than one drunk driving or related conviction in the past three years. Registered sex offender.

How far back does a nursing background check go?

We conduct background checks going back to 7 years. This is the limit which is normally required for such searches. However, depending on the needs of the clients, we can go even further back. We conduct licensing and sanction checks across state lines.

Do banks hire people with misdemeanors?

Under Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, FDIC-insured banks are prohibited from hiring any person who has been convicted of a crime involving "dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering," unless they obtain consent from the FDIC.

Can you get a government job with a misdemeanor?

If you have misdemeanors (although not domestic violence related or DUIs) you can work for many agencies at varying levels of government. Usually the more desperate that the agency is to fill a role, the more that they will overlook misdemeanors, especially ones that don't include violence or drug SALES.

Will CVS hire me with a misdemeanor?

Criminal background checks will look for any felonies or misdemeanors on your record. While CVS does not automatically disqualify applicants with a criminal history, they will consider the offense's nature and severity.

Does Walmart hire with a misdemeanor?

Walmart will look at felonies and misdemeanor arrests and convictions for the previous 7 years. Violent, sexual, drug, and financial/larceny offenses are most likely grounds for disqualification. Walmart does not hire violent criminals. Note: Expunged records will not show up on a background check.

What disqualifies you from working at Amazon background check?

For instance, a recent felony conviction for a violent crime is likely to be a disqualifying event. A prior conviction for a drug-related felony that is six years old is not necessarily disqualifying.

Does FedEx do background checks?

Yes, FedEx applicants undergo a background check to review criminal records. Corporate applicants may undergo an interview and receive a conditional job first. Accepting a conditional offer begins the company's internal employee background check process. Most FedEx Ground positions use the automated process instead.

Can a job deny you for a misdemeanor?

The Fair Chance Act, which went into effect on January 1, 2018, is a California law that generally prohibits employers with five or more employees from asking about your conviction history before making you a job offer.

Will I pass a background check if I have a misdemeanor?

In California, a background check will typically reveal if somebody was convicted of a misdemeanor or felony. Infractions usually result in a fine, and generally, they won't appear on criminal background checks, such as littering or traffic tickets.

What is the lowest misdemeanor?

The least serious misdemeanors are classified as Class C or Level Three. These crimes can result in fines and jail time of up to a year, and may also offer the chance of probation.

Will my job find out about my misdemeanor?

If you live and work in California and are arrested, your employer may learn about your legal matter. Employers are permitted to conduct background checks on job applicants and employees, which can include information about an individual's criminal history.

How do you explain a misdemeanor on a job application?

When it comes to explaining a misdemeanor conviction on a job application, remember these four crucial tips:
  1. Do not lie.
  2. Avoid going into details.
  3. Explain how it has changed your life for the better.
  4. Provide references.

What convictions can stop you from getting a job?

Theft/Shoplifting – Any conviction involving an element of dishonesty or stealing is a huge red flag for employers. They may worry you could steal from the company. Drug Possession – Even a minor marijuana possession charge can disqualify you from many jobs, especially those involving operating vehicles or machinery.