Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in Louisiana. Plan on endorsement through Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition (LBEDN).
- Endorsement fee
- $100
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Not listed
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition (LBEDN)
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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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 at least 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship or coordinated program.
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Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians. As of 2025, a master's degree is required for new exam candidates.
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Step 3
Submit the Application to LBEDN
Complete and submit the licensure application to the Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition. Pay the application fee. Include all required supporting documents.
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Step 4
Complete Fingerprint Background Check
Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal background check as required by Louisiana law. The fingerprinting fee is paid separately by the applicant.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $100
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $83
- Renewal cycle
- Annual (by June 30) + 15 CE hours per year
- Application
- $100
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $100
License Types
Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN): The mandatory credential to use the titles 'dietitian,' 'dietician,' or 'nutritionist' and to practice dietetics or provide nutrition care services in Louisiana. Title protection is strictly enforced.
Required Documents
- CDR Registration Verification: Proof of current, active registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
- Official College Transcripts: From an ACEND-accredited program showing degree completion.
- Supervised Practice Verification: Documentation of 1,200+ hours of ACEND-accredited supervised practice.
- Fingerprint Background Check: Fingerprint-based background check as mandated by 2025 legislation.
Board Contact
- Board
- Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition (LBEDN)
- Department
- Independent State Board
- Phone
- (225) 756-3480
- Board site
- https://www.lbedn.org/
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $83. Renewal cycle: Annual (by June 30) + 15 CE hours per year.
Louisiana Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a Louisiana dietitian license cost?
The initial application fee is approximately $100 (set by LBEDN; contact the Board for the current exact amount). Annual renewal submitted by June 30 is $83. Late renewal (July 1 – August 31) increases to $163. Fingerprint background check fees are additional.
What continuing education does Louisiana require?
Louisiana requires a minimum of 15 continuing education hours annually in dietetics and nutrition, submitted with your renewal. Alternatively, you may provide a copy of your current CDR identification card to satisfy the CE requirement.
Does Louisiana enforce title protection for dietitians?
Yes. Louisiana law mandates that only individuals with a valid LDN license may use the titles 'dietitian,' 'dietician,' or 'nutritionist' — or practice dietetics/nutrition care services. Exemptions exist for certain licensed healthcare professionals performing nutrition work incidental to their scope.
Does Louisiana have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in Louisiana. To work in Louisiana, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to Louisiana?
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 Louisiana 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.