2021 Delaware Code
Title 24 - Professions and Occupations
Chapter 19. Nursing
§ 1914. Qualifications for licensed practical nurse.
An applicant for a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse shall submit to the Board written evidence, verified by oath, that such applicant:
(1) Is a graduate of and holds a certificate from a State Board of Nursing approved practical nursing education program. The Board may, by an affirmative vote of a majority of a quorum of the Board, waive this requirement for application for licensure by endorsement if it finds clear and convincing evidence that the applicant's education, training, experience, and conduct have been sufficient to overcome the deficiency in meeting this requirement;
(2) Demonstrates competence in English related to nursing;
(3) Has earned a high school diploma or its equivalent;
(4) Is of such satisfactory physical and mental health as is consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act [42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.];
(5) Has committed no acts which are grounds for disciplinary action as set forth in § 1922(a) of this title; however, after a hearing or review of documentation demonstrating that the applicant meets the specified criteria for a waiver, the Board, by an affirmative vote of a majority of the quorum may waive § 1922(a) of this title if it finds all of the following:
a. For waiver of a felony conviction, more than 5 years have elapsed since the date of the conviction. At the time of the application the applicant may not be incarcerated, on work release, on probation, on parole, or serving any part of a suspended sentence and must be in substantial compliance with all court orders pertaining to fines, restitution, and community service.
b. For waiver of a misdemeanor conviction or violation, at the time of the application the applicant may not be incarcerated, on work release, on probation, on parole, or serving any part of a suspended sentence and must be in substantial compliance with all court orders pertaining to fines, restitution, and community service.
c. The applicant is capable of practicing nursing in a competent and professional manner.
d. The granting of a waiver will not endanger the public health, safety, or welfare.
e. The applicant has not been convicted of a felony sexual offense;
(6) If seeking licensure by endorsement, demonstrates active employment in practical nursing in the past 5 years, or satisfactory completion of a practical nursing refresher program with an approved agency within 2 years prior to filing an application. In the event no refresher course is available the Board may consider alternate methods of evaluating current knowledge in practical nursing; and
(7) Has passed the standard national examination for practical nursing. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing shall establish the passing score.
