February 3, 2023

How to Protect Your Nursing License After a DUI in Arizona

When a nurse gets a DUI in Arizona, it's important for them to act quickly to resolve the issue and protect their license.

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Dane Perikly

Director of Virtual Services & DUI Education

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Last Update on January 28, 2025

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DIRECTOR OF VIRTUAL SERVICES

Dane is the Director of Virtual services at Cornerstone. He contributes guides on DUI education so that you can understand all there is to know about DUI charges, education, and the overall process of meeting Arizona requirements after a DUI. He cares deeply about raising awareness of the dangers of DUI and illustrating the impact on victims and on those charged.

As a nurse in Arizona, a driving under the influence charge can have repercussions extending even beyond legal consequences. Your nursing license and DUI history can significantly impact your career, financial security, and ability to continue practicing. Having a familiarity with how the Arizona Board of Nursing addresses cases of driving under the influence, and by knowing your options you can take proper actions, and work towards protecting your nursing future.

What a DUI Means for Nurses in Arizona

Nurses in Arizona should be aware of the consequences of a DUI if they decide to drink and drive.For nurses, the penalties can be especially severe given their role as medical professionals. A DUI conviction can lead to hefty fines, license suspension, imprisonment, and points on your record, all of which can impact your nursing license and DUI standing with the Arizona nursing board. A nurse might find themselves in a situation where they are unable to practice their job due to restrictions or even license revocation.

Can I Lose My Nursing License Over a DUI in Arizona?

Getting a DUI can be a scary experience, especially when trying to maintain your license as a nurse in Arizona. It is important not to panic, as the board of nursing may or may not consider it grounds for license removal. While they reserve the right to revoke your license for violating their code of ethics and standards, some practitioners have only received a warning. Ultimately, the outcome depends on factors like repeat offenses and alcohol abuse, meaning the Arizona Board of Nursing may take disciplinary action regarding your nursing license and DUI rather than revoke it outright.

Self-Reporting a DUI To The Arizona Nursing Board

It is important to note that if you have been charged with a DUI in Arizona, the board requires you to self-report it within 10 days to avoid further complications regarding your nursing license and DUI status.1 Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation. It is essential that you report any and all arrests and convictions related to DUIs, even if the charges were dropped or dismissed.

Once you have self-reported your DUI, the Arizona nursing board may take into consideration a variety of factors when deciding how to proceed. For example, they will look at your past record as a nurse, any prior disciplinary actions taken against you, and the severity of your offense.2

Got a DUI? Learn about our DUI screenings and classes in Arizona!

Nursing License and DUI: Arizona Board Actions

The Arizona State Board of Nursing is responsible for regulating the nursing profession in the state, and this includes having a set of guidelines in place regarding how nurses should behave when it comes to driving under the influence. Depending on the severity and circumstances of your DUI offense, the Arizona Board of Nursing may take disciplinary action related to your nursing license and DUI status, which could include suspension or removal.In other cases, they may only issue a warning. The board will take into consideration all relevant factors, including repeat offenses and any signs of alcohol abuse. 

Will the Nursing Board Make Me Go to Rehab?

Depending on the circumstances of your DUI or DWI offense, the nursing board may require you to seek treatment in a rehabilitation program as part of its disciplinary action. This is especially common for repeat offenders and those who have been found to have an alcohol problem. In some cases, the board may even require you to submit weekly progress reports regarding your treatment. This is to ensure that you are following through with the program because your compliance with any treatment programs or court orders will be taken into account when the board considers your nursing license and DUI history. 

Quick Tip

Quick Tip: Act Fast—Call a DUI Lawyer

As a nurse, a DUI charge can put your license and livelihood at risk. If convicted, you may face suspension or revocation. Acting quickly is key—contact an experienced attorney immediately to protect your rights and improve your chances of a positive outcome.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Arizona?

Being charged and convicted of a DUI can be a difficult, costly process, but what comes after can sometimes have a more lasting effect. In Arizona, DUIs remain on your record for up to 7 years. That means any future background checks you may go through can reveal the incident dating back to the date of your arrest. It’s important to note that this doesn’t refer just to criminal background checks by employers or landlords – it also affects your auto insurance premiums and other related matters.

Arrested for DUI in Arizona?

Cornerstone offers a lifeline with certified DUI classes and screenings—take the first step towards putting this behind you.

Attend DUI Classes at Cornerstone DUI

Being required to go through DUI classes can be intimidating, but they serve an important purpose in completing your case requirements and moving forward after a DUI. At Cornerstone DUI , our compassionate team provides valuable education on alcohol abuse, addiction, and safe driving practices, in addition to useful techniques for developing healthy habits. No matter the circumstances that led you here, these classes will equip you with essential knowledge to make responsible choices and keep yourself—and others—safe on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

In some cases, the board may require you to go inpatient for a certain period of time. Why might they do this? This is often done as part of a comprehensive treatment plan and can involve detoxification and other intensive forms of therapy.

If you are required to go inpatient, it’s important to follow all instructions from your doctor and the board. Why is this critical? Doing so will demonstrate your commitment to sobriety and help you get the best possible outcome from your treatment.

If you are unable to attend inpatient treatment, have you explained your situation to the board? It’s important to provide them with detailed reasons why you may not be able to comply with their recommendations. 

Have you kept the board updated about your recovery journey? Staying in contact and providing progress updates is important. Why? It shows the board you’re actively working towards recovery, which can help your case when it comes time for a review.

Managing Your Nursing License and DUI Effectively

A DUI charge doesn’t have to destroy your nursing career, but it must be addressed with care and concern. Reporting your DUI when mandated, complying with any disciplinary actions, and documenting your rehabilitation processes are important steps in managing your nursing license and DUI status. Finding an attorney can help make your journey easier and lessen the blow to your license. At Cornerstone, our compassionate staff is here to support you through rehab, providing the guidance and care you need to rebuild your future.By taking accountability and following proper protocols, you can work towards regaining trust and securing your nursing future.

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