Information for CNA Applicants
How does a prior conviction affect my eligibility for licensure?
Nurse assistant students cannot participate in the mandatory portion of training that requires direct contact with residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities until they have submitted an application, fingerprints, and fee to ATCS. Because applications for certification can be denied in the pre-screening process, ATCS recommends that every individual applying for nurse assistant certification understand the health and conviction screening requirements before registering for training or requesting certification through reciprocity from out of state.
The result of a purified protein derivative (PPD) intermediate strength intradermal skin test for tuberculosis, unless medically contraindicated. If a positive reaction is obtained, a chest x-ray shall be taken, unless medically contraindicated. CNA applicants may not have contact with residents until they obtain a report that confirms there is no health hazard for any positive skin test (with or without a chest x-ray).
Conviction screening
Before registering for a CNA training program,
applicants should review the list of Penal Code Sections (Conviction
Codes) that result in automatic denial of their application. ATCS can approve
certification for applicants with convictions only if the applicant has
obtained a Dismissal or Certificate of Rehabilitation from the court in
the county where the conviction(s) occurred. Applicants with
disqualifying convictions may send Certificates of Rehabilitation (for
felonies) or Dismissals (for misdemeanors) with their applications.
However, ATCS will not make any determinations on self-declared
convictions until it has received the applicant's complete record from
the Department of Justice (DOJ).
