Colorado Dietitian License
State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition
Total Fee
$239
Processing Time
TBD (New program launching Sept 2026)
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- CDR Registration Card — A copy of your current, valid registration card from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. CDR Website
- Official Transcripts — Official transcripts showing completion of a master's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program.
- Supervised Practice Verification — Documentation confirming the completion of at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience.
- Proof of Identification — A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., Driver's License or Passport).
How to Apply
-
Obtain National CDR Registration ▾Before applying for state licensure, you must be a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). This requires a master's degree (as of 2024), 1,000+ supervised practice hours, and passing the national exam.
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Create a DPO Online Account ▾Register for an account on the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) Online Services portal to begin the application process.
Register/Login to DPO -
Submit Initial Application ▾Select the 'Dietetics and Nutrition' board and choose the 'Licensed Dietitian' application. Complete all personal information and professional history sections.
Start Application -
Pay Application Fees ▾Pay the non-refundable application fee (estimated at $200) through the secure online portal using a credit card or electronic check.
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Complete Background Check ▾Undergo a criminal background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This typically involves fingerprinting at an approved vendor site.
CBI Background Check -
Submit Required Documentation ▾Upload or have third parties send official transcripts, proof of CDR registration, and verification of supervised practice hours directly to the DPO.
Total Fee
$239
Processing Time
TBD (New program launching Sept 2026)
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Details on reciprocity or endorsement will be established by the new Board of Dietetics and Nutrition under DORA regulations. Active CDR registration will serve as the primary qualification for state licensure.
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Ensure you hold an active, unrestricted dietitian license in another state with requirements substantially equivalent to Colorado's.
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Submit Endorsement Application ▾Apply through the DPO portal specifically for 'Licensure by Endorsement'.
DPO Portal -
Request License Verification ▾Contact your current state board to have an official verification of licensure sent directly to the Colorado DPO.
-
Submit CDR Proof ▾Provide evidence of current CDR registration, which often satisfies many of the educational and exam requirements for endorsement.
Total Fee
$125
Renewal Cycle
Annual (Estimated) + 75 CPE hours per 5-year CDR cycle
Compact
No
Board
State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition
Keeping Your License Active
Colorado Dietitian licenses renew Annual (Estimated) + 75 CPE hours per 5-year CDR cycle. Contact the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Visit board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $239 |
| Endorsement application | $239 |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 125.0 |
Slow Downs
Transcript Mismatch
▾
Delays occur when transcripts are sent under a different name or do not clearly state the degree conferred date.
Background Check Processing
▾
Fingerprint results can take several weeks to process through CBI and the FBI; schedule your appointment early.
Incomplete CDR Verification
▾
Failure to provide a current CDR card or official verification from CDR will stall the application.
Questions
When does the licensing requirement take effect?
▾
Mandatory licensure for dietitians in Colorado is effective starting September 1, 2026.
Is a master's degree required for Colorado licensure?
▾
Yes, as of January 1, 2024, the CDR requires a master's degree for new RDs, which is the standard adopted for Colorado licensure.
What is the difference between a Licensed Dietitian (LD) and a Licensed Nutritionist (LN)?
▾
LDs are typically Registered Dietitians through the CDR, while LNs may have other advanced nutrition degrees (e.g., CNS) and meet specific state-defined criteria.
How often must I renew my Colorado dietitian license?
▾
Licenses are typically renewed every two years through the DPO portal, requiring proof of continued CDR registration or CE compliance.
Board Info
State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition (New)
Phone(303) 894-7800