Maryland Dietitian License
Board of Dietetic Practice
Total Fee
$300
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Not available
N/A
What You'll Need
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the degree-granting institution to the Board.
- CDR or BCNS Registration Card — Proof of current national certification as an RD or CNS.
- Professional References — Three professional references may be required as part of the application process.
- Implicit Bias Training Certificate — A one-time requirement for the first renewal; applicants should keep this for their records.
How to Apply
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Obtain National Certification ▾You must first obtain registration as a Registered Dietitian (RD) through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) or as a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) through the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS).
Visit CDR Website -
Start Online Application ▾Create an account and begin your initial application on the Maryland Board of Dietetic Practice online portal.
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Submit Required Fees ▾Pay the non-refundable initial application and licensure fee of $300 via Visa or MasterCard through the online portal.
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Submit Official Transcripts ▾Request that your official transcripts be sent directly from your accredited college or university to the Board via email (Lenelle.Cooper@maryland.gov) or mail.
View Submission Details -
Provide Proof of Registration ▾Upload or email a copy of your current CDR or BCNS registration card/certificate to the Board.
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Complete Board Review ▾The Board will review your application and documents. Once approved, you will receive an email notification of your licensure.
Total Fee
$300
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Maryland requires state-specific licensure to practice, even if you are licensed in another state. However, the process is streamlined for Registered Dietitians who already hold CDR registration. Out-of-state licensees apply through the standard application process and can transfer their CDR registration. Contact the Board directly for specific reciprocity guidance.
Steps
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Verify National Registration ▾Ensure your CDR (RD) or BCNS (CNS) registration is active and in good standing.
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Apply for Licensure by Registration ▾Maryland does not have a separate 'endorsement' path; use the standard initial application portal to apply based on your national registration.
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Submit State Verifications ▾If you hold or have held a license in another state, request a verification of licensure be sent directly to the Maryland Board.
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Pay Application Fee ▾The fee for licensure by registration is the same as initial licensure ($300).
Total Fee
$250
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years + 30 CPE hours (incl. implicit bias)
Compact
No
Board
Board of Dietetic Practice
Keeping Your License Active
Maryland Dietitian licenses renew Every 2 years + 30 CPE hours (incl. implicit bias). Contact the Board of Dietetic Practice for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $300 |
| Endorsement application | $300 |
| Temporary permit | N/A |
| Renewal | 250.0 |
Slow Downs
Transcript Submission
▾
Transcripts not sent directly from the university or sent to the wrong department can delay processing by weeks.
Name Discrepancies
▾
If the name on your CDR card does not match your application or transcripts, the Board may require legal name change documentation.
Incomplete CEU Records
▾
For renewals, failing to list the required 30 hours of CEUs or missing the one-time Implicit Bias training will prevent license issuance.
Questions
What is the total cost for a new Maryland LDN license?
▾
The total initial cost is $300, which covers both the application and the first licensure period.
How many continuing education units (CEUs) are required for renewal?
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Licensed Dietitian Nutritionists must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years.
Is there a late renewal period if I miss the deadline?
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No. Maryland does not have a late renewal period. If you do not renew by October 31st of your renewal year, you must apply for reinstatement and pay a fee of $576.
Is a master's degree required for licensure in Maryland?
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As of January 1, 2024, the CDR requires a master's degree for new RD candidates. Maryland follows these national standards for licensure eligibility.
Does Maryland require a criminal background check with fingerprints?
▾
While many Maryland health boards require fingerprints, the Board of Dietetic Practice currently requires applicants to disclose criminal history on the application rather than submitting a fingerprint-based CHRC.
Board Info
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25