Many nursing graduates and internationally trained nurses worry that a past felony conviction automatically ends their chances of becoming licensed. This fear is common and understandable, especially when the rules feel unclear and highly personal.
If you are asking can you take the NCLEX with a felony, the answer is not a simple yes or no. A felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from taking the NCLEX or becoming licensed, but it does make the process more complex and highly dependent on your state.
This guide explains how eligibility decisions are made, what role State Boards of Nursing play, and what factors are commonly reviewed, using only the facts provided.
The Short Answer
Having a felony conviction does not automatically prevent you from taking the NCLEX or obtaining a nursing license.
However, all applicants must undergo background checks, and each case is reviewed individually by the State Board of Nursing in the state where licensure is sought. Final approval always rests with the Board.
Why Background Checks Are Required
Background checks are mandatory for anyone seeking to take the NCLEX and become licensed as a nurse.
Most State Boards of Nursing require:
- Fingerprinting
- State level criminal background checks
- Federal criminal background checks
Both misdemeanor and felony convictions must be disclosed during the application process.
Failing to disclose prior convictions can seriously harm your application. Honesty plays a major role in how Boards evaluate an applicant’s character and readiness to practice.
The Role of State Boards of Nursing
State Boards of Nursing are the regulatory authorities that determine who is eligible for licensure in each state.
Even if you are accepted into a nursing program and complete your education, your state Board of Nursing can still deny a nursing license. The decision is not made by the school or by the NCLEX exam itself.
Each Board has the authority to:
- Review criminal history
- Decide whether an applicant may sit for the NCLEX
- Decide whether an applicant may receive a nursing license
All decisions are made according to that state’s laws and regulations.
Case by Case Review Process
Applicants with criminal histories are reviewed individually.
Boards of Nursing typically consider:
- The type of offense
- How long ago the offense occurred
- The circumstances surrounding the offense
- Whether all sentencing requirements were completed
- Evidence of rehabilitation
- Conduct and history since the conviction
Nurses are expected to demonstrate good moral character. Full disclosure and transparency are often viewed as essential parts of that evaluation.
Taking the NCLEX Versus Being Licensed
It is important to understand that taking the NCLEX and receiving a nursing license are not the same thing.
- Some applicants with felony convictions may be allowed to sit for the NCLEX after completing nursing school
- Passing the NCLEX does not guarantee that a license will be issued
- Licensure decisions are always made separately by the State Board of Nursing
Approval to test does not equal approval to practice.
Offenses That May Affect Eligibility
While many convictions do not automatically prevent someone from becoming a nurse, certain offenses may lead to disqualification in some states.
Criminal convictions that may affect eligibility include:
- Felonies involving fraud or financial crimes
- Sexual offenses
- Serious violent crimes
- Certain drug related offenses
Drug related felonies may result in different outcomes depending on the situation, including denial of licensure, a restricted license, or no disciplinary action.
State Specific Examples
Licensure rules vary widely by state. The following examples illustrate how different Boards handle criminal history.
Florida
The Florida Nurse Practice Act lists offenses that may automatically disqualify applicants, including:
- Forcible felonies such as murder
- Sex related offenses
- Controlled substance and drug related crimes
- Theft and fraudulent practices
- Abuse related offenses
Texas
Texas evaluates applicants on a case by case basis.
- Serious felonies involving violence, abuse, or fraud may lead to disqualification
- Offenses committed as a minor may be viewed as youthful indiscretions if there is evidence of remorse or lack of premeditation
- Applicants must disclose expunged convictions when applying for licensure
Illinois
Illinois law automatically bars licensure for certain convictions, including:
- Offenses requiring registration under the Sex Offender Registration Act
- Involuntary sexual servitude of a minor
- Criminal battery against a patient during patient care
- Certain forcible felonies such as First Degree Murder, Robbery, Home Invasion, Kidnapping, and Aggravated Battery
Most other convictions do not automatically prevent licensure. Adult convictions that have been expunged, sealed, vacated, or reversed should not be disclosed.
Ohio
Convictions that automatically bar licensure include:
- Aggravated arson
- Aggravated burglary
- Murder
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Kidnapping
- Rape
Utah
- A burglary conviction within ten years will result in denial of licensure
- Failing to stop at the command of law enforcement triggers a Board review if the arrest occurred within one year
Arizona
Applicants are generally eligible to apply for licensure three years after completing their sentence.
New York
New York does not currently require additional state level background screening for nurses.
Colorado and Iowa
These states offer pre determination checks that allow applicants to submit documents for review before attending nursing school.
Disclosure Requirements
You are required to disclose criminal convictions when applying for:
- Nursing school
- Licensure exams
- Nursing jobs
Disclosure rules for expunged records vary by state. In some states, expunged records still affect NCLEX eligibility, while in others they do not.
Always follow the instructions provided by the Board of Nursing in your state.
A Gentle Reminder About State Differences
Every state has its own Board of Nursing, and every Board applies its rules independently. Outcomes vary based on state law, the nature of the offense, and individual circumstances.
This article is intended to provide education and clarity, not legal advice or licensure guarantees.
Final Thoughts
If you are asking can you take the NCLEX with a felony, the most accurate answer is that it depends on your state and your individual situation.
The most important steps you can take are:
- Be honest and thorough in all disclosures
- Review your state Board of Nursing requirements carefully
- Contact your Board directly for guidance specific to your case
You may also explore MedCognito resources designed to help nurses understand licensing pathways and exam requirements across different jurisdictions.
If you are comfortable reflecting, what part of this process feels most uncertain for you right now, eligibility to test or final licensure approval?
