Can you become a nurse with felony forgery conviction in the state of Illinois?

It is possible to become a nurse in the state of Illinois with a felony forgery conviction, however, it may be more difficult.

Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

1. Licensing Requirements: The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) is responsible for licensing and regulating nurses in the state. According to the IDFPR, an applicant for a nursing license must meet certain requirements, including demonstrating good character, reputation, and fitness to practice. Depending on the circumstances and severity of the felony forgery conviction, the IDFPR may consider it as an indicator of questionable character and may deny the license application.

2. Disclosure: As part of the nursing license application process, you will be required to disclose any criminal convictions, including felonies. Failing to disclose a felony conviction could lead to disciplinary action, including denial of the license or revocation if the license has already been issued.

3. Background Checks: The IDFPR may conduct background checks to verify the information provided on the license application. This may include a criminal history check, which would disclose the felony forgery conviction.

4. Rehabilitation and Mitigation: If you are interested in pursuing a nursing career despite the felony forgery conviction, it is essential to demonstrate rehabilitation and mitigation. This could involve completing relevant education or training, obtaining positive recommendations, and maintaining a clean record.

5. Consulting with an Attorney: It may be advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in healthcare licensing matters. They can provide guidance on the specific licensing process, potential challenges you may face, and how to address the felony conviction in your application.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to approve a nursing license application with a felony forgery conviction is made on a case-by-case basis. While it may be more challenging, with proper preparation and evidence of rehabilitation, it may be possible to pursue a nursing career in Illinois despite the felony conviction.