Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in Rhode Island. Plan on endorsement through Board of Dietetics Practice.
- Endorsement fee
- $75
- Processing time
- 3 to 5 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Available
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Board of Dietetics Practice
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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Step 1
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a master's degree from an ACEND-accredited program. Complete a minimum of 900 hours of board-approved supervised dietetic experience (most accredited programs exceed this with 1,000+ hours).
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Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians. Verification of current RD status is required.
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Step 3
Submit the Application and Fee
Complete, sign, and notarize the official application. Submit it to the Department of Health with the $75 fee (payable to the RI General Treasurer) and a 2x3 portrait photograph.
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Step 4
Complete Background Check & Verifications
Obtain an original Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) report from the Attorney General's Office. Ensure CDR verification is sent directly to the Board.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $75
- Processing time
- 3 to 5 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $170
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (expires Nov 1 of odd years) + 20 CE hours
- Application
- $75
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $75
License Types
Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN): The credential to practice and provide medical nutrition therapy in Rhode Island, overseen by the Board of Dietetics Practice.
Required Documents
- Notarized Application & Photo: Application form with a notarized signature and a recent 2x3 head-and-shoulders photograph.
- CDR Registration Verification: Proof of active registration sent directly from the CDR to the Board.
- Criminal Background Check: An original BCI report from the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office.
Board Contact
- Board
- Board of Dietetics Practice
- Department
- Rhode Island Department of Health
- Phone
- (401) 222-2828
- doh.licensing@health.ri.gov
- Board site
- https://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=223
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $170. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (expires Nov 1 of odd years) + 20 CE hours.
Rhode Island Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a Rhode Island dietitian license cost?
The initial cost is a $75 application fee, which does not include the cost of the BCI background check.
When does the Rhode Island license need to be renewed?
Rhode Island LDN licenses expire on November 1st of odd-numbered years. The biennial renewal fee is $170.
Does Rhode Island use the title 'Nutritionist'?
Yes, Rhode Island uses the combined title of Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN) to license both professionals under one standard for medical nutrition therapy.
Does Rhode Island have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in Rhode Island. To work in Rhode Island, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to Rhode Island?
Most endorsement applications take 3 to 5 Weeks. If you qualify for an active compact privilege, there may be no separate wait to start practicing.
Can I start working in Rhode Island while my endorsement application is processing?
A temporary or provisional credential is available while the full endorsement application is pending.