Licensing Path
South Dakota has enacted the Dietitian Compact, but compact privileges are not issuing yet. For now, out-of-state applicants still use endorsement.
- Endorsement fee
- $70
- Processing time
- 3 to 4 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Available
- Compact
- Dietitian Compact enacted, not active yet
- Board
- South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE)
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 1,200 hours of board-approved supervised practice through a dietetic internship.
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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 satisfies the state's exam requirement.
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Step 3
Submit the Application via SDBMOE
Apply online through the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners portal and pay the $70 application fee.
-
Step 4
Provide Verification Documents
Submit a copy of your active CDR registration to verify that you meet the educational, examination, and supervised practice requirements.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $70
- Processing time
- 3 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $100
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (expires May 31 of odd years)
- Application
- $70
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $70
License Types
Licensed Nutritionist / Dietitian: The credential to practice dietetics in South Dakota, regulated by the Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners. The state law primarily licenses under the 'Nutritionist' title but requires qualifications identical to dietetics.
Required Documents
- Official Online Application: Application submitted via the SDBMOE portal.
- CDR Registration Verification: Proof of active registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Usually submitted directly or verified online by the Board.
Board Contact
- Board
- South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE)
- Department
- Department of Health
- Phone
- (605) 367-7781
- sdbmoe@state.sd.us
- Board site
- https://www.sdbmoe.gov/nutritionist-dietitian/
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $100. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (expires May 31 of odd years).
South Dakota Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a South Dakota dietitian license cost?
The initial license application fee is $70.
When does the South Dakota license need to be renewed?
South Dakota dietitian licenses expire biennially on May 31st of odd-numbered years. The renewal fee is $100.
Why does South Dakota use the 'Nutritionist' title for Dietitians?
South Dakota codified its practice act using the term 'Licensed Nutritionist' for professionals providing medical nutrition therapy, but the requirements parallel those for Registered Dietitians nationally.
Does South Dakota have reciprocity for dietitians?
South Dakota has enacted the Dietitian Compact, but compact privileges are not yet issuing. For now, dietitians still apply by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my dietitian license to South Dakota?
Most endorsement applications take 3 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 South Dakota while my endorsement application is processing?
A temporary or provisional credential is available while the full endorsement application is pending.