Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in Indiana. Plan on endorsement through Dietitians Certification Board.
- Endorsement fee
- $20
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Not listed
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Dietitians Certification Board
From the board
Endorsement Steps
-
Step 1
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program in dietetics, human nutrition, or a related field. Complete 900–1,000 hours of supervised dietetics practice through an accredited internship.
-
Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians.
-
Step 3
Submit the Online Application
Apply online through the IPLA licensing portal. Pay the $20 non-refundable application fee. Include two passport-style photographs and a copy of your current CDR registration card.
-
Step 4
Complete Fingerprint Background Check
Submit to a mandatory fingerprint-based criminal background check. The fingerprinting fee is paid separately to the designated vendor.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $20
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $20
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (by Dec 31, even years) + 30 CE hours
- Application
- $20
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $20
License Types
Certified Dietitian (CD): Indiana's state certification for dietitians. While optional for use of the 'Registered Dietitian' title, most employers require both the national RD credential and the state CD certification. Allows use of the 'Certified Dietitian' title.
Required Documents
- Official College Transcripts: Sent directly from the university, showing degree in an approved field and date awarded.
- CDR Registration Card: Copy of your current, active Commission on Dietetic Registration credential.
- Two Passport-Style Photographs: Recent photographs meeting standard passport specifications.
- Fingerprint Background Check: Mandatory fingerprint-based criminal background screening.
Board Contact
- Board
- Dietitians Certification Board
- Department
- Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA)
- Phone
- (317) 234-2060
- pla3@pla.in.gov
- Board site
- https://www.in.gov/pla/professions/dietitians/
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $20. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (by Dec 31, even years) + 30 CE hours.
Indiana Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does an Indiana dietitian certification cost?
The initial application fee is only $20 — one of the lowest in the country. The biennial renewal is also $20 (plus a $10 late fee if submitted after December 31). Fingerprint background check fees are paid separately to the vendor.
Is Indiana dietitian certification required to practice?
Indiana's Certified Dietitian (CD) credential is technically optional for practicing as a Registered Dietitian (RD). However, most employers in Indiana require both the national RD credential and the state CD certification.
What continuing education is required in Indiana?
Indiana requires 30 hours of continuing education during each two-year licensure period for active renewal. Continuing education is not required for inactive renewal.
Does Indiana have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in Indiana. To work in Indiana, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to Indiana?
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 Indiana 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.