Alabama

Getting Your Dietitian License in Alabama

Here's what you need to know.

Last updated 2026-02-25 · Sources verified

Licensing Path

There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in Alabama. Plan on endorsement through Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice.

Endorsement fee
$250
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprinting
Required
Temporary license
Available
Compact
No active compact path
Board
Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice

Endorsement Steps

  1. Step 1

    Complete Education & Supervised Practice

    Earn a master's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program. Complete a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practice.

  2. Step 2

    Pass the CDR Examination

    Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) national examination.

  3. Step 3

    Submit the Application

    Complete the licensure application and submit it to the Board with the $100 application fee and $150 initial license fee ($250 total).

  4. Step 4

    Provide Verification

    Submit a copy of your current, active CDR registration card or verification letter directly from CDR.

Quick Facts

Total fee
$250
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Renewal fee
$200
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years + 30 CE hours
Application
$100
Background check
$0 (included in application)
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$250

License Types

Licensed Dietitian (LD) / Licensed Nutritionist (LN): The standard credential to practice dietetics in Alabama. Alabama law protects both the 'Dietitian' and 'Nutritionist' titles.

Temporary License: Available for applicants who have met the educational and supervised practice requirements and are preparing to take the CDR exam. Valid for one year. Fee is $175.

Required Documents

Board Contact

Board
Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice
Department
Independent State Board
Phone
(334) 242-4505
Email
board@boed.alabama.gov
Board site
http://www.boed.alabama.gov/
Compact source
https://dietitianscompact.org/

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is $200. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years + 30 CE hours.

Alabama Dietitian Licensing FAQ

How much does an Alabama dietitian license cost?

The initial cost is $250, which includes a non-refundable $100 application fee and a $150 license fee. The temporary license costs $175.

When does the Alabama license need to be renewed?

The license is renewed biennially (every two years). The renewal fee is $200.

What are the continuing education requirements?

Alabama requires 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) during each two-year renewal cycle.

Does Alabama have reciprocity for dietitians?

No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in Alabama. To work in Alabama, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.

How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to Alabama?

Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks. If you qualify for an active compact privilege, there may be no separate wait to start practicing.

Can I start working in Alabama while my endorsement application is processing?

A temporary or provisional credential is available while the full endorsement application is pending.