Minnesota

Getting Your Dietitian License in Minnesota

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 Minnesota. Plan on endorsement through Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice.

Endorsement fee
$282
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprinting
Required
Temporary license
Not listed
Compact
No active compact path
Board
Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice

Endorsement Steps

  1. Step 1

    Complete Education & Supervised Practice

    Earn a master's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program. Complete at least 900 hours of documented supervised pre-professional practice experience under a registered dietitian or similarly qualified professional.

  2. Step 2

    Pass the CDR Examination

    Successfully pass the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians. The CDR exam fee is $250. Obtain current CDR registration.

  3. Step 3

    Submit the Online Application

    Complete the online application through the Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted. Pay the $100 application fee and $150 initial license fee.

  4. Step 4

    Complete Background Check & Provide Documentation

    Authorize and complete a criminal background check ($32 fee). Submit a notarized copy of your current CDR registration card, official transcripts, and supervised practice documentation.

Quick Facts

Total fee
$282
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Renewal fee
$75
Renewal cycle
Annual (by Nov 30) + 45 CE hours per 3 years
Application
$100
Background check
$32
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$282

License Types

Licensed Dietitian (LD): The standard credential to practice dietetics in Minnesota, issued by the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice. Requires CDR registration and completion of 900+ hours of supervised pre-professional practice.

Licensed Nutritionist (LN): A separate credential for nutrition practitioners who meet different educational and experiential qualifications established by the Board.

Required Documents

Board Contact

Board
Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice
Department
Minnesota Department of Health
Phone
(612) 617-2175
Board site
https://mn.gov/boards/dietetics-and-nutrition/
Compact source
https://dietitianscompact.org/

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is $75. Renewal cycle: Annual (by Nov 30) + 45 CE hours per 3 years.

Minnesota Dietitian Licensing FAQ

How much does a Minnesota dietitian license cost?

The total initial cost is $282: $100 application fee, $150 initial license fee, and $32 criminal background check fee. Annual renewal is $75, due by November 30 each year.

What are the continuing education requirements for Minnesota dietitians?

Minnesota requires 45 continuing education units (CEUs) every three years for state license renewal. Additionally, CDR registration requires 75 CPEUs every five years — many activities satisfy both requirements.

Does Minnesota require a notarized CDR card?

Yes. Minnesota specifically requires a notarized copy of your current CDR registration card or official examination results as part of the license application. This is an unusual requirement among states.

Does Minnesota have reciprocity for dietitians?

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

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

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 Minnesota 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.