Protecting Your Missouri Nursing License After a DUI Arrest
What Nurses Need to Know About Criminal Charges and the Missouri State Board of Nursing
A DUI arrest can have serious consequences for any licensed professional—but for nurses in Missouri, the stakes are especially high. In addition to criminal penalties, a DUI may also trigger disciplinary action by the Missouri State Board of Nursing, even if the incident occurred outside of work.
Many nurses are surprised to learn that they’re required to report criminal charges and convictions, and that the Board has the authority to investigate any conduct that reflects on a nurse’s ability to practice safely and ethically. If you’re a nurse in Missouri and have been arrested or charged with driving under the influence, it’s critical to understand how this may affect your license—and what steps you can take to protect it.
Will a DUI Automatically Result in Nursing License Suspension?
No—but it will likely result in a formal investigation by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. The Board is responsible for protecting the public, not defending licensees. If they believe your DUI charge suggests impaired judgment, substance abuse, or a risk to patient safety, they may initiate disciplinary proceedings under the Missouri Nurse Practice Act (RSMo Chapter 335).
In many cases, the outcome of the Board’s investigation depends less on the criminal charge itself and more on:
- How the nurse handles the situation
- Whether the incident was isolated or part of a pattern
- Whether the nurse is honest and cooperative
- Whether there’s evidence of rehabilitation or risk to the public
Are Missouri Nurses Required to Report a DUI Arrest or Conviction?
Yes. Under Missouri law, licensed nurses must report criminal convictions and, in some cases, arrests or charges.
If you fail to report a DUI, you may face additional penalties for non-disclosure or dishonesty, which can sometimes carry more weight with the Board than the underlying offense.
When and how to report the incident depends on:
- Whether the case is still pending
- Whether the Board has already been notified by law enforcement or an employer
- Whether you’re in the middle of a renewal cycle (which also requires disclosure)
Tip: Always consult a nursing license defense attorney before submitting any written explanation to the Board. Statements made without legal guidance can unintentionally admit fault or make your situation worse.
How the Missouri State Board of Nursing Responds to DUI Charges
The Board may take a variety of disciplinary actions following a DUI, depending on the circumstances. These may include:
- Private or public reprimand
- Mandatory drug and alcohol evaluations
- Substance abuse monitoring or probation
- Random drug/alcohol testing
- Restrictions on your license (e.g., no night shifts or medication access)
- Temporary suspension or revocation, in severe or repeat cases
Even if your DUI was unrelated to work, the Board may argue that it calls into question your professional judgment, reliability, or safety as a healthcare provider.
Factors That Influence the Board’s Disciplinary Decision
When evaluating a DUI-related case, the Board considers:
- Was this your first offense, or do you have a history of substance-related issues?
- Were you charged or convicted, or was the case dismissed or diverted?
- Were any patients, coworkers, or healthcare facilities involved?
- Have you demonstrated remorse and taken proactive steps (e.g., counseling or treatment)?
- Did you self-report the incident promptly and truthfully?
If you’ve taken responsibility, addressed any underlying substance concerns, and shown a commitment to safe practice, the Board may be more inclined to issue a non-punitive or limited sanction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest
- Failing to report the incident (or waiting too long)
- Responding to the Board without legal representation
- Assuming that a criminal defense attorney can handle the licensing issue
- Downplaying the seriousness of the charge
- Failing to complete court-ordered treatment or probation
Nursing boards in Missouri view DUIs as potential indicators of impairment. Being proactive and honest—while also being legally strategic—is key.
Defense Strategies to Protect Your Missouri Nursing License
Each case is unique, but possible defense strategies include:
1. Early Intervention and Legal Representation
A nursing license defense attorney can help prepare your written response, gather evidence of rehabilitation, and negotiate alternatives to discipline—such as entering a monitoring program or agreeing to continuing education.
2. Proof of an Isolated Incident
If your DUI was a one-time occurrence, unrelated to work or patient care, and you have no prior disciplinary history, this can support a request for leniency.
3. Completion of Treatment or Counseling
Showing that you’ve completed alcohol education classes, substance abuse counseling, or AA/NA meetings can help demonstrate that you’ve addressed the issue responsibly.
4. Supporting Letters and References
Positive letters from employers, supervisors, or colleagues can help show that you’re a safe, responsible professional.
5. Contesting the Underlying Allegation (When Appropriate)
If the criminal case is still pending or charges were dropped, your attorney may argue that the Board should withhold action or dismiss the complaint entirely.
How Sanger Law Office, LLC Can Help
At Sanger Law Office, LLC, we represent nurses across Missouri who are facing disciplinary action related to DUI arrests, criminal charges, or alleged professional misconduct. We understand the unique intersection between criminal law and professional licensing, and we work aggressively to protect your rights and preserve your ability to practice.
Our services include:
- Confidential case evaluations and risk assessments
- Preparing official responses to the Missouri State Board of Nursing
- Communicating with Board investigators on your behalf
- Negotiating terms of probation or settlement
- Defending you in formal hearings and appeals
We work with nurses at every stage—from the initial arrest to license reinstatement if needed.
Call Sanger Law Office, LLC today for a free consultation:
If you are a nurse in Missouri and have been arrested for or convicted of DUI, the time to act is now. The right steps today can protect your license tomorrow.
📞 Call Sanger Law Office, LLC today for a free consultation:
(816) 520-8040 for Missouri
(785) 979-4353 for Kansas
We’re here to help you protect your license, your career, and your future.