Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in Massachusetts. Plan on endorsement through Board of Registration of Dietitians and Nutritionists.
- Endorsement fee
- $196
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Not listed
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Board of Registration of Dietitians and Nutritionists
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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Step 1
Verify Educational Eligibility
Hold a bachelor's degree or higher in dietetics, nutrition, human nutrition, nutrition education, or public health nutrition from an accredited institution. If your degree is in an unrelated field, you must have completed specific prerequisite coursework in biological sciences, chemistry, and behavioral sciences.
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Step 2
Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
Complete at least 900 hours of supervised clinical internship under a licensed dietitian-nutritionist. Alternatively, equivalent paid professional experience (3 years post-bachelor's, 2 years post-master's, or 1 year post-doctorate at 32+ hours/week) may satisfy this requirement.
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Step 3
Pass a Board-Approved Examination
Successfully pass either the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians or the BCNS Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) examination.
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Step 4
Submit the Application Online
Create an account on the Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing Portal and submit the application with the non-refundable $196 fee. The application must be notarized. Mail supporting documents to the Board.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $196
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $196
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (on birthday) + 30 CE units
- Application
- $196
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $196
License Types
Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN): The unified credential to practice dietetics and nutrition in Massachusetts. Applicants may qualify through either the CDR (Registered Dietitian) or the BCNS (Certified Nutrition Specialist) examination pathway.
Required Documents
- Official College Transcript (Sealed): Sealed by the registrar, verifying the highest degree earned. If your degree is not in a directly related field, include a completed 'Course Summary Form' with transcripts.
- CDR Card or BCNS Letter: A copy of your current CDR registration card (for RDs) or an official sealed letter from BCNS confirming passage (for CNS applicants).
- Verification of Supervised Experience: A 'Verification by Supervisor' form signed by your supervising dietitian, plus your professional resume.
- CORI Acknowledgment Form: Criminal Offender Record Information acknowledgment is required as part of the application.
- License Verification from Other States: If you hold or have held licenses in other jurisdictions, a certificate of standing must be obtained from each.
Board Contact
- Board
- Board of Registration of Dietitians and Nutritionists
- Department
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH)
- Phone
- (617) 624-6160
- Dietitiansnutritionistsboard@mass.gov
- Board site
- https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-of-dietitians-and-nutritionists
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $196. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (on birthday) + 30 CE units.
Massachusetts Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a Massachusetts dietitian/nutritionist license cost?
The combined application and initial license fee is $196, payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The biennial renewal fee is also $196.
Which Massachusetts agency regulates dietitians?
The Board of Registration of Dietitians and Nutritionists, which operates under the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), is the regulatory body.
What are the continuing education requirements for Massachusetts dietitians?
Licensees must complete a minimum of 30 units (each unit = 50 minutes of organized learning) of continuing education in the field of dietetics and nutrition during each two-year renewal cycle. The Board may conduct random audits.
Does Massachusetts have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in Massachusetts. To work in Massachusetts, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts 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.