Alabama — sunset over Mobile Bay

Alabama Dietitian License

Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice

Total Fee
$250
Processing Time
Up to 30 Days
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Available
$175

What You'll Need

  • Application for Licensure — Official board application form, fully completed and notarized. Start Application
  • CDR Identification Card — A copy of your current registration card from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
  • Government-Issued Photo ID — A copy of a valid driver's license or other state/federal photo identification.
  • Professional Reference Forms — Two completed reference forms from professional peers or supervisors. Download Reference Form
  • Citizenship/Legal Presence Documentation — Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence as required by Alabama law.

How to Apply

  1. Complete Education and Supervised Practice ▾
    Earn a baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited college with a major in dietetics, human nutrition, or food systems management. Complete at least 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited program.
  2. Pass the CDR Registration Examination ▾
    Register for and pass the national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). You must provide proof of current RD status to the Alabama Board.
    CDR Website
  3. Prepare Application Documents ▾
    Download and complete the Application for Licensure. The application must be typed or printed in ink and requires a notarized signature. Gather a copy of your government-issued photo ID and your CDR card.
    Start Application
  4. Obtain Professional References ▾
    Secure two professional references from individuals who have known you for more than three months and are not immediate family members or current Board members. They must complete the official Reference Form.
    Reference Form
  5. Submit Application and Fees ▾
    Mail the completed application, references, and required documentation to the Board office. Include the $100 application fee and $150 license fee (total $250) via certified check or money order payable to the Alabama Board of Dietitians.
    Board Mailing Address
  6. Wait for Board Review ▾
    Applications typically take up to 30 days to process. Once approved, you will receive your license and can practice legally in Alabama.
Total Fee
$250
Processing Time
Up to 30 Days
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Available

Transfer License

Requirements ▾
Alabama allows licensure by endorsement for dietitians who hold a current, valid license in another state with requirements equivalent to or stricter than Alabama's, provided the applicant holds active CDR registration.
Apply to transfer

Steps

  1. Verify Out-of-State License ▾
    Request a Verification of Licensure form be sent directly from every state where you hold or have ever held a license to the Alabama Board.
    Verification Form
  2. Submit Reciprocity Application ▾
    Complete the standard Application for Licensure, indicating you are applying via reciprocity/endorsement.
    Application Forms
  3. Pay Reciprocity Fees ▾
    Submit the $100 application fee and $150 reciprocity/license fee (total $250).
Total Fee
$200
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years + 30 CE hours
Compact
No
Board
Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice

Keeping Your License Active

Alabama Dietitian licenses renew Every 2 years + 30 CE hours. Contact the Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Visit board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$250
Endorsement application$250
Temporary permit$175
Renewal200.0

Slow Downs

Missing Notarization ▾
Applications submitted without a proper notary seal and signature will be returned, delaying processing.
Incomplete Reference Forms ▾
References must be sent with the application or directly to the board; missing or incomplete forms are a frequent cause of delay.
Incorrect Fee Payment ▾
Fees must be paid by certified check, cashier's check, or money order. Personal checks are often not accepted for initial applications.

Questions

How many continuing education hours are required for renewal? ▾
30 hours of approved continuing education are required every two years (biennial period ending September 30 of odd years).
Can I practice with a temporary license? ▾
Yes, a temporary license may be issued to 'RD eligible' candidates who have completed education and practice but not yet passed the exam. It is valid for one year.
What is the minimum age for licensure in Alabama? ▾
Applicants must be at least 19 years of age.
How do I verify my Alabama license for another state? ▾
Email a written request with your name and license number to board@boed.alabama.gov. There is currently no fee for this service.

Board Info

Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice
Phone(334) 242-4505
Webwww.boed.alabama.gov/
Emailboard@boed.alabama.gov
Sources
Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetics/Nutrition Practice Application information State statutes
Last verified 2026-02-25