Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for dietitian licensing in South Carolina. Plan on endorsement through Panel for Dietetics.
- Endorsement fee
- $175
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Not listed
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Panel for Dietetics
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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Step 1
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a bachelor's or master's degree from an ACEND-accredited program in human nutrition, dietetics, or a related field. Complete at least 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship.
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Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians ($200 fee). Obtain current CDR registration.
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Step 3
Submit the Application
Complete and submit the licensure application to the South Carolina Panel for Dietetics. Pay the non-refundable $175 application fee. Include all required supporting documents.
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Step 4
Provide Supporting Documentation
Submit a copy of your current signed CDR card, valid photo ID, signed Social Security card, official transcripts (sent directly from the university), notarized Verification of Lawful Presence, and any name-change documentation if applicable.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $175
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $100
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (by May 31, odd years) + 30 CE hours
- Application
- $175
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $175
License Types
Licensed Dietitian (LD) — Licensure by Registration: For applicants currently registered with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The most common pathway.
Licensed Dietitian (LD) — Licensure by Examination: For applicants who have passed a Panel-approved examination and hold a baccalaureate or master's degree in an approved nutrition field from a regionally accredited institution.
Required Documents
- Current Signed CDR Card: Copy of your signed, active Commission on Dietetic Registration credential (for licensure by registration).
- Official College Transcripts: Sent directly to the Panel office from the degree-granting institution.
- Valid Photo ID: Copy of a driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport.
- Signed Social Security Card: Copy of your signed Social Security card.
- Notarized Verification of Lawful Presence: Required by South Carolina law for professional licensing.
Board Contact
- Board
- Panel for Dietetics
- Department
- South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR)
- Phone
- (803) 896-4651
- Contact.Dietetics@llr.sc.gov
- Board site
- https://llr.sc.gov/diet/
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $100. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (by May 31, odd years) + 30 CE hours.
South Carolina Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a South Carolina dietitian license cost?
The initial application fee is $175 (non-refundable). The biennial renewal fee is $100, due by May 31 of odd-numbered years. Late renewal incurs a $50 fee, and reinstatement costs an additional $50.
What continuing education does South Carolina require?
South Carolina requires 30 hours of continuing professional education per biennial renewal period. Additionally, maintaining CDR registration requires 75 CE hours every five years.
Does South Carolina require tele-dietetics practitioners to be licensed?
Yes. South Carolina requires all individuals practicing dietetics or tele-dietetics within the state to hold a valid South Carolina dietitian license, regardless of where they are physically located.
Does South Carolina have reciprocity for dietitians?
No interstate compact currently covers dietitian practice in South Carolina. To work in South Carolina, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to South Carolina?
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 South Carolina 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.