If you’re considering becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida, you may be wondering whether a past criminal record could affect your eligibility to take the Florida CNA state exam or obtain your CNA license.
As part of the licensing process, all applicants must complete a Level 2 background screening. This fingerprint-based screening is conducted through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It reviews criminal history from both Florida and other states.
The primary purpose of the screening is to determine whether an applicant is eligible to work with vulnerable adults and patients in healthcare settings.
What Does the State Review?
The background screening may include a review of:
- Felony convictions
- Certain misdemeanor offenses
- Pending criminal charges
- Criminal history from other states
- Crimes involving abuse, neglect, or exploitation of elderly or disabled adults
- Patient abuse or neglect
- Child abuse and related offenses
- Sexual offenses
- Violent crimes, such as aggravated assault or battery
- Crimes involving theft, fraud, robbery, or exploitation of vulnerable individuals
- Certain felony drug-related offenses
Does a Criminal Record Automatically Disqualify You?
Not necessarily.
Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent someone from becoming a CNA in Florida. The state reviews each applicant individually, taking several factors into consideration, including:
- The specific offense
- Whether it was a felony or misdemeanor
- When it occurred
- The outcome of the case
- Any additional circumstances surrounding the offense
Honesty is extremely important during the application process. If you’re asked about your criminal history, it’s always best to answer truthfully. Attempting to hide or omit information can create far more serious issues than the record itself.
If you’re unsure whether your criminal history could affect your eligibility, it’s a good idea to contact the Florida Department of Health or the Florida Board of Nursing before enrolling in a CNA prep course or registering for the Florida CNA state exam. They can provide guidance based on your individual situation and help you understand your options before you begin the certification process.