Licensing Path
Wisconsin has enacted the Dietitian Compact, but compact privileges are not issuing yet. For now, out-of-state applicants still use endorsement.
- Endorsement fee
- $60
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Not listed
- Compact
- Dietitian Compact enacted, not active yet
- Board
- Dietitians Affiliated Credentialing Board
From the board
Endorsement Steps
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Step 1
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution in dietetics, human nutrition, or a related field. Complete at least 900 hours of supervised practice including 300 hours in clinical dietetics, 120 hours in food service administration, and 120 hours in community nutrition.
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Step 2
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the registration examination for dietitians established by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), or an equivalent examination approved by the Wisconsin Dietitians Affiliated Credentialing Board.
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Step 3
Submit the Online Application
Apply online through the DSPS LicensE portal. Pay the $60 credential fee. Upload proof of CDR exam passage or current CDR registration verification.
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Step 4
Provide Education & Practice Documentation
Submit satisfactory evidence of your qualifying education and completion of the supervised practice requirements, including official transcripts and internship verification.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $60
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $60
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years (by Oct 31, even years)
- Application
- $60
- Background check
- $0 (included in application)
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $60
License Types
Certified Dietitian (CD): Wisconsin's credential for practicing dietitians, issued by the Dietitians Affiliated Credentialing Board under DSPS. The state is considering transitioning to 'Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN)' under pending legislation.
Required Documents
- Official College Transcripts: From a regionally accredited institution, showing degree in an approved field.
- CDR Registration Verification or Exam Results: Proof of passing the CDR registration examination or current CDR credential.
- Supervised Practice Documentation: Verification of 900+ hours, including breakdown of clinical (300 hrs), food service (120 hrs), and community nutrition (120 hrs) components.
Board Contact
- Board
- Dietitians Affiliated Credentialing Board
- Department
- Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
- Phone
- (608) 266-2112
- Board site
- https://dsps.wi.gov/pages/Professions/Dietitian/Default.aspx
- Compact source
- https://dietitianscompact.org/
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $60. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (by Oct 31, even years).
Wisconsin Dietitian Licensing FAQ
How much does a Wisconsin dietitian certification cost?
The initial credential fee is $60. Renewal is also $60, due by October 31 of even-numbered years. Late renewal after five years incurs an additional $25 fee.
What are Wisconsin's supervised practice hour requirements?
Wisconsin requires a minimum of 900 hours of supervised dietetics practice, including at least 300 hours in clinical dietetics, 120 hours in food service administration, and 120 hours in community nutrition — all under approved supervision.
Is Wisconsin transitioning to licensure?
Yes. There are active legislative discussions about transitioning from 'certification' to 'licensure,' which would change the credential to Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN) and potentially update fees. Monitor the DSPS website for updates.
Does Wisconsin have reciprocity for dietitians?
Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
Most endorsement applications take 2 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 Wisconsin 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.