Connecticut

Getting Your Dietitian License in Connecticut

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 Connecticut. Plan on endorsement through Department of Public Health — Dietitian-Nutritionist Certification.

Endorsement fee
$190
Processing time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprinting
Required
Temporary license
Not listed
Compact
No active compact path
Board
Department of Public Health — Dietitian-Nutritionist Certification

Endorsement Steps

  1. Step 1

    Complete Education & Supervised Practice

    Earn a master's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program (DPD, CP, or GP pathway). Complete at least 1,000–1,200 hours of ACEND-accredited supervised practice.

  2. Step 2

    Pass the CDR Examination & Obtain Registration

    Successfully pass the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians ($200 fee). Obtain active CDR registration (RD/RDN credential).

  3. Step 3

    Apply via the eLicense Portal

    Submit your application online through the Connecticut eLicense system. Pay the $190 initial certification fee.

  4. Step 4

    Request CDR Verification

    Have the CDR send verification of your current registration directly to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. DPH will not accept self-reported verification.

Quick Facts

Total fee
$190
Processing time
4 to 6 Weeks
Renewal fee
$105
Renewal cycle
Annual + CDR 75 CPEUs per 5 years (no state-level CE mandate)
Application
$190
Background check
$0 (included in application)
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$190

License Types

Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist (CDN): Connecticut's credential for practicing dietitians and nutritionists. Issued by the Department of Public Health. Requires active CDR registration. As of April 2025, CDNs are eligible to enroll in Connecticut Medicaid (CMAP) and HUSKY Health.

Required Documents

Board Contact

Board
Department of Public Health — Dietitian-Nutritionist Certification
Department
Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH)
Phone
(860) 509-7603
Board site
https://portal.ct.gov/dph/practitioner-licensing--investigations/dietitian-nutritionist/dietitian-nutritionist
Compact source
https://dietitianscompact.org/

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is $105. Renewal cycle: Annual + CDR 75 CPEUs per 5 years (no state-level CE mandate).

Connecticut Dietitian Licensing FAQ

How much does a Connecticut dietitian certification cost?

The initial certification fee is $190 through the eLicense portal. Annual renewal is $105. There is no state-mandated continuing education beyond maintaining your CDR registration.

Does Connecticut require state-level continuing education?

No. Connecticut does not mandate state-specific continuing education for annual certification renewal. However, you must maintain active CDR registration, which requires 75 CPEUs every five years, including at least one CPEU in ethics or health equity.

Can Connecticut CDNs enroll in Medicaid?

Yes. Effective April 1, 2025, certified dietitian-nutritionists can enroll in Connecticut's Medicaid program (CMAP) and HUSKY Health. Reimbursement for services began on July 1, 2025.

Does Connecticut have reciprocity for dietitians?

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

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

Most endorsement applications take 4 to 6 Weeks. If you qualify for an active compact privilege, there may be no separate wait to start practicing.

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

Most applicants need to wait for full approval before starting work because the state does not clearly offer a temporary or provisional credential.