Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in North Carolina. Plan on endorsement through North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition (NCBDN).
- Endorsement fee
- $248
- Processing time
- 2 to 3 Business Days
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Available
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition (NCBDN)
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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Step 1
Create an Account on the NCBDN Gateway
Register for an account on the NCBDN Gateway online portal, which is used for all application submissions and document uploads.
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Step 2
Complete the Online Application
Select the appropriate licensure category (e.g., Category A for RDNs) and fill out the online application. Pay the non-refundable fees: $60 application, $150 issuance, and $38 background check ($248 total).
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Step 3
Upload Required Documents
After submitting the application, you will receive an email checklist. Upload official transcripts, CDR registration verification, government-issued photo ID, and any other required documents through the Gateway.
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Step 4
Complete the Criminal Background Check
Authorization for a criminal background check is mandatory. The $38 fee covers this check, which is processed through the NCBDN.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $248
- Processing time
- 2 to 3 Business Days
- Renewal fee
- $95
- Renewal cycle
- Annual (by March 31) + 30 CE hours per 2 years
- Application
- $60
- Background check
- $38
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $248
License Types
Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN) — Category A: Full licensure for individuals currently registered with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) as an RDN. The primary credential for practicing dietetics in North Carolina.
Provisional Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (PLDN) — Category B: A 12-month provisional license for individuals who have completed an ACEND-accredited program and supervised practice and are preparing to take the CDR exam. Initial fee is $133. Cannot be renewed.
Licensed Nutritionist (LN) — Category F: For individuals holding a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) or Diplomate of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition (DACBN) credential.
Required Documents
- Official College Transcripts: Must show a master's or doctoral degree in nutrition or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- CDR Registration Verification: Proof of current, active registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (for Category A applicants).
- Government-Issued Photo ID: A clear copy of a valid, government-issued identification.
- Criminal Background Check Authorization: Completed authorization form and associated $38 fee.
Board Contact
- Board
- North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition (NCBDN)
- Department
- Independent State Board
- Phone
- (919) 388-1931
- info@ncbdn.org
- Board site
- https://www.ncbdn.org/
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $95. Renewal cycle: Annual (by March 31) + 30 CE hours per 2 years.
North Carolina Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a North Carolina dietitian license cost?
The total initial cost for a Category A (RDN) license is $248, which comprises a $60 application fee, a $150 issuance fee, and a $38 criminal background check fee. Annual renewal is $95.
When does the North Carolina dietitian license expire?
All North Carolina dietitian/nutritionist licenses expire on March 31st each year, regardless of when they were issued. Annual renewal must be submitted between January 1st and March 31st.
What are the continuing education requirements for NC dietitians?
Licensees must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. For RDNs (Category A), meeting the CDR's continuing education standards (75 hours per 5-year cycle) fulfills the state requirement.
Does North Carolina have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in North Carolina. To work in North Carolina, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to North Carolina?
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 3 Business Days. If you qualify for an active compact privilege, there may be no separate wait to start practicing.
Can I start working in North Carolina while my endorsement application is processing?
A temporary or provisional credential is available while the full endorsement application is pending.