Licensing Path
Tennessee has enacted the Dietitian Compact, but compact privileges are not issuing yet. For now, out-of-state applicants still use endorsement.
- Endorsement fee
- $140
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Not listed
- Compact
- Dietitian Compact enacted, not active yet
- Board
- Board of Dietitian/Nutritionist Examiners
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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Step 1
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a master's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program in dietetics, human nutrition, or a related field. Complete at least 1,200 hours of ACEND-accredited supervised practice.
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Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians. The CDR exam fee is $200.
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Step 3
Submit the Online Application
Apply through the Tennessee Online Application system. Pay the non-refundable $140 application fee. Include a passport-style photo and declaration of citizenship form.
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Step 4
Complete Background Check & Provide Documentation
Authorize and complete a criminal background check. Submit official transcripts, proof of CDR registration, verification of supervised practice completion, and a letter of recommendation.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $140
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $90
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (by birth month) — no CE required for state renewal
- Application
- $140
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $140
License Types
Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN): The standard credential required to practice dietetics or nutrition in Tennessee, regulated by the Board of Dietitian/Nutritionist Examiners under the Department of Health.
Temporary Permit: Available for applicants who have been approved by CDR to sit for the registration exam but have not yet passed it. Costs $5 and is valid until exam results are received. Requires a complete application on file.
Required Documents
- Official College Transcripts: Sent directly from the degree-granting institution, showing degree and date awarded.
- CDR Registration Card: Copy of your current, active Commission on Dietetic Registration credential.
- Supervised Practice Verification: Documentation verifying completion of ACEND-accredited supervised practice hours.
- Passport-Style Photograph: Recent photo meeting standard passport specifications.
- Criminal Background Check Authorization: Mandatory background screening as part of the application process.
Board Contact
- Board
- Board of Dietitian/Nutritionist Examiners
- Department
- Tennessee Department of Health
- Phone
- (615) 532-3202
- Board site
- https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/dietitian-board.html
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $90. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (by birth month) — no CE required for state renewal.
Tennessee Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a Tennessee dietitian license cost?
The initial application fee is $140, which includes the state regulatory fee. The CDR exam costs an additional $200. The biennial renewal fee is $90, due by the last day of your birth month.
Does Tennessee require continuing education for dietitians?
Tennessee does not mandate state-level continuing education for license renewal. However, to maintain your CDR registration — which is required for state licensure — you must complete 75 continuing professional education units every five years.
Can I practice in Tennessee while waiting for my license?
Tennessee offers a temporary permit for $5 for applicants who have CDR authorization to test. This permit allows practice while you await your exam results, provided your application is complete and on file with the Board.
Does Tennessee have reciprocity for dietitians?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
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 Tennessee 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.