Hawaii — Na Pali coast from above

Hawaii Dietitian License

State Licensing Section - Dietitians

Total Fee
$225
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Fieldprint
Temp License
Not available
N/A

What You'll Need

  • Official Application Form — The state-issued application form requested directly from the State Licensing Section.
  • CDR Registration Card — A copy of your current, valid registration card from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. CDR Portal
  • Official Transcripts — Transcripts verifying a baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree in dietetics or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
  • Supervised Practice Verification — Documentation of at least 900 hours of supervised practice experience approved by the commission on accreditation.
  • Licensure Fee — A non-refundable fee of $225, typically paid via check or money order.

How to Apply

  1. Obtain National CDR Registration
    Before applying for Hawaii licensure, you must be a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) in good standing with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
    CDR Website
  2. Request Application Packet
    Hawaii does not provide downloadable licensing forms online. You must contact the State Licensing Section at (808) 692-7400 or write to the Department of Health to request an application packet.
    Contact Information
  3. Gather Required Documentation
    Prepare your official transcripts, a copy of your current CDR registration card, and proof of completing at least 900 hours of supervised practice.
  4. Submit Application and Fee
    Mail the completed application form along with a non-refundable licensure fee of $225 (check or money order payable to 'State of Hawaii') to the Office of Health Care Assurance.
  5. Await Review
    The Department of Health typically processes applications within 4 to 6 weeks. You will be notified if there are any deficiencies in your application.
  6. Receive License
    Once approved, your name will be added to the official registry of Hawaii Licensed Dietitians.
    View Licensee List
Total Fee
$225
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Requirements
Hawaii allows for licensure by endorsement. Individuals holding a valid dietitian certification or license from another state, territory, or jurisdiction may be eligible if the requirements are equal to or greater than Hawaii's (maintaining an active CDR typically qualifies).

Steps

  1. Verify Out-of-State License
    Ensure you hold a valid, current certification or license as a dietitian in another state or jurisdiction.
  2. Request Endorsement Packet
    Contact the Hawaii State Licensing Section at (808) 692-7400 to request the specific application materials for licensure by endorsement.
  3. Submit Proof of Equivalency
    Provide documentation showing that the requirements for your current license are equal to or greater than Hawaii's requirements.
  4. Submit Disciplinary Report
    Include a report of any disciplinary action taken against your license in any other jurisdiction.
Total Fee
$0
Renewal Cycle
Every 3 years (Must maintain active CDR)
Compact
No
Board
State Licensing Section - Dietitians

Keeping Your License Active

Hawaii Dietitian licenses renew Every 3 years (Must maintain active CDR). Contact the State Licensing Section - Dietitians for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Visit board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$225
Endorsement application$225
Fingerprint check$50.00 - $70.00 (estimated Fieldprint fee; varies by specific check components)
Temporary permitN/A

Slow Downs

Missing CDR Proof
Failure to include a copy of the current CDR registration card is a primary cause for application rejection.
Incomplete Application Forms
Forms that are not fully filled out or signed will be returned, adding at least 45 days to the process.
Incorrect Payment Method
The Department of Health does not accept personal checks or cash; fees must be paid by corporate check, bank check, or money order.
Transcript Delays
Waiting for official transcripts to be sent from universities can delay the initial review process.

Questions

Is a dietitian license mandatory in Hawaii?
Licensure is voluntary in Hawaii; however, you cannot use the title 'Licensed Dietitian' or the letters 'L.D.' without a state license. Many employers and insurance providers require it for reimbursement.
How much does the Hawaii dietitian license cost?
The non-refundable licensure fee is $225 for a three-year period.
How often must I renew my Hawaii dietitian license?
Licenses are valid for three years and must be renewed by submitting a renewal application and fee at least 30 days before expiration.
What are the continuing education requirements?
Hawaii requires dietitians to maintain their national CDR registration, which involves completing 75 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) units every five years.
Can I apply for a Hawaii dietitian license online?
No. Hawaii does not currently offer an online application portal for dietitians. You must contact the State Licensing Section to receive a physical application packet.

Board Info

State Licensing Section - Dietitians
Sources
State Licensing Section - Dietitians
Last verified 2026-02-25