Are background checks required for licensure and renewal?

• A. No background checks are required at all.
• B. Only licensure requires background checks, not renewal.
• C. Only renewal requires background checks, not licensure.
• D. Yes; fingerprint-based background checks are required for licensure; renewals may require updated checks.

Answer: (D)

In Florida, getting a nursing license requires a fingerprint-based criminal history background check. This is done before the Board can issue the license, using state and FBI records to verify there are no disqualifying offenses and to ensure the applicant is fit to practice.

For license renewals, the rules may require an updated background check, depending on timing and policy. So the process is clear: licensure requires a fingerprint-based check, and renewals may involve a re-check if required by current regulations or circumstances.