Florida DUI Charges and Nursing Licenses: What Nurses Need to Know
Florida DUI Charges Can Put a
Nursing License at Risk
For nurses, a DUI charge in Florida can create consequences far beyond the criminal court. While the DUI case itself is handled the same as any other misdemeanor DUI, nurses must also consider licensing, reporting obligations, and employment risks.
Understanding how a DUI interacts with the Florida Board of Nursing (FBON) is critical to protecting your career.
DUI Criminal Charges vs. Professional Discipline
A DUI charge does not automatically revoke a nursing license. However, the Florida Board of Nursing evaluates whether a DUI raises concerns about:
Impairment
Public safety
Fitness to practice
The Board’s review is separate from the criminal case and does not require a conviction to take action.
Reporting Requirements to the Florida Board of Nursing
Depending on how a DUI case is resolved, nurses may have a duty to report an arrest or conviction to the FBON.
Key points:
Some outcomes (including withhold of adjudication or plea agreements) may still be reportable
Failure to report when required can result in additional discipline
Reporting rules are strict and timing matters
How a DUI case is resolved — including the wording of any plea — can directly affect reporting obligations.
Possible Disciplinary Actions for Nurses
The FBON may impose discipline such as:
Letters of concern
Fines
Probation or monitoring
Substance abuse evaluations or treatment
License suspension or revocation (typically in repeat or aggravated cases)
The Board’s focus is on patient safety, not punishment.
Employment Consequences for Nurses
A DUI charge may affect:
Hospital credentialing
Employment contracts
Background checks
Travel nursing eligibility
Some employers take action based on the arrest alone, even before the case is resolved.
Why Legal Strategy Matters for Nurses Facing DUI
For nurses, the goal is often minimizing both criminal penalties and professional fallout. Early legal decisions — including plea negotiations or test challenges — can influence how the Board responds.
Speak With Florida DUI Attorney Amy Pietrowski
A DUI charge is not just a traffic matter — it is a criminal offense with long-term consequences. Early decisions can significantly affect the outcome of your case and your future.
If you are facing a DUI charge in Florida, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the evidence, and protect what matters most.
Ask Attorney Amy provides experienced Florida DUI defense with an understanding of how these charges impact careers, licenses, and lives.
Attorney Amy Pietrowski