Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in Arkansas. Plan on endorsement through Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board.
- Endorsement fee
- $110
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Available
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board
From the board
Endorsement Steps
-
Step 1
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a master's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution. Complete an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program (typically 1,000 to 1,200 hours).
-
Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians (for full LD licensure).
-
Step 3
Submit the Application and Fee
Complete, sign, and date the application form. Your signature must be notarized. Mail the completed application with the appropriate fee (check or money order) to the ADLB.
-
Step 4
Provide Documentation
Include a copy of your current CDR registration card. If applying for a provisional license, include verification of internship completion and a letter from your employment supervisor.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $110
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $50
- Renewal cycle
- Annual + 12 CE hours (*Renewal fee temporarily reduced to $3.00 for 2025-2026*)
- Application
- $110
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $110
License Types
Licensed Dietitian (LD): The standard credential to practice dietetics in Arkansas, overseen by the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board.
Provisional Licensed Dietitian (PLD): Available for applicants who have completed all education and supervised practice requirements and are eligible to take the CDR exam but have not yet passed it. Valid for 18 months and allows practice under the supervision of a Licensed Dietitian. Standard fee is $150 (temporarily reduced to $8 for 2025-2026).
Required Documents
- Notarized Application: Application form with your notarized signature.
- CDR Registration Card: Copy of your current, active CDR registration card (for full licensure).
- Check or Money Order: Made payable to the Arkansas Dietetics Practice Fund.
Board Contact
- Board
- Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board
- Department
- Arkansas Department of Health
- Phone
- (501) 683-1126
- Board site
- https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/arkansas-dietetics-licensing-board
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $50. Renewal cycle: Annual + 12 CE hours (*Renewal fee temporarily reduced to $3.00 for 2025-2026*).
Arkansas Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does an Arkansas dietitian license cost?
The standard initial license fee is $110. However, the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board has announced a temporary fee reduction down to $6.00 for the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
When does the Arkansas license need to be renewed?
The Arkansas dietitian license is renewed annually. The standard renewal fee is $50 (temporarily reduced to $3.00 for the 2025-2026 cycle).
What are the continuing education requirements for Arkansas?
Arkansas requires 12 continuing education units (CEUs) annually to maintain state licensure. For your CDR registration, 75 CEUs are required every five years.
Does Arkansas have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in Arkansas. To work in Arkansas, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to Arkansas?
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 Arkansas while my endorsement application is processing?
A temporary or provisional credential is available while the full endorsement application is pending.