California Professional License Defense Lawyer

What to Know About Moral Character Disclosures, Criminal History, and Your Application Strategy

Starting a new career in California often means going through a rigorous license application process. If you have a criminal record, the process can feel even more uncertain. Most California license applications include questions about past convictions — and how you respond can directly affect whether your license is granted. Whether you’re applying to be a nurse, teacher, real estate agent, or healthcare professional, it’s important to approach this part of the application carefully and strategically.

Key Takeaways

• Most California license applications require disclosure of past convictions — even expunged ones.
• You do not need to disclose arrests that didn’t lead to convictions — but clearing your record may still help.
• Licensing boards often verify history through fingerprinting and background checks.
• Missteps in disclosure or documentation can delay or jeopardize your license.
• Legal guidance can improve your chances of approval and reduce stress during the process.

Why Your Background Matters on a License Application

When applying for a professional license in California — whether for nursing, teaching, real estate, medicine, or another field — you’ll likely face questions about your moral character and criminal history. These sections matter. Even a misdemeanor conviction from years ago can raise red flags if not addressed correctly.

What Needs to Be Disclosed

Most licensing boards ask about criminal convictions — including those that were expunged or dismissed under Penal Code section 1203.4. A “no contest” plea, a deferred entry of judgment (DEJ), or other alternative resolutions still count as convictions in the eyes of most boards. If you’ve had any convictions, they need to be disclosed honestly and completely.

Examples of Agencies Requiring Disclosure

Agencies that typically ask about criminal convictions include:

• Board of Registered Nursing
• Commission on Teacher Credentialing
• Medical Board of California
• Department of Real Estate
• Department of Insurance
• Board of Behavioral Sciences

What Usually Doesn’t Need to Be Disclosed

Most boards are not concerned with prior arrests that did not lead to a conviction. That said, it may still be wise to clean up your record. You may be eligible to seal or amend old arrest records under Penal Code sections 849.5 and 851.6 — something we can help you explore.

Preparing Your Application Strategically

Disclosing a conviction typically requires an explanation, along with certified court and police records. We recommend having all documentation ready before you submit your application — and preparing a strong written narrative that shows rehabilitation, context, and honesty.

We Can Help You Prepare:

• Accurate application responses
• Expungement or record-clearing steps
• Explanations and personal statements
• Collection of required court/police documents

What Happens After You Disclose

Once you submit your application, the board may investigate further. You could be asked to provide a personal statement, character references, or even attend an interview. Some cases result in formal denial proceedings or administrative hearings — especially if the board has concerns about your background.

Don’t Go Through It Alone

We’ve helped hundreds of California professionals navigate moral character reviews and license denials. Whether you’re applying for the first time or facing pushback after disclosure, we can guide you through each step. Trying to manage this process on your own often leads to delays — or worse, denials that could have been avoided.

Next Steps

If you’re preparing a license application and have a criminal record — or even just an old arrest — we’re here to help. We offer a free consultation to help you understand your risks and options.

Law Office of Jonathan Turner
3620 American River Drive, Suite 120
Sacramento, CA 95864
(916) 471-6506