Illinois Dietitian License
Dietetic and Nutrition Services Practice Board
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Licensed Illinois Fingerprint Vendors (e.g., Accurate Biometrics, A Top 5 Percent Fingerprinting)
Temp License
Available
See board
What You'll Need
- Official Transcripts — Official transcripts showing completion of a baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree in human nutrition or dietetics.
- CDR Verification — Proof of current registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Supervised Practice Verification — Documentation of at least 900-1,000 hours of supervised practice experience (usually covered by CDR verification).
- Fingerprint Receipt — The Transaction Control Number (TCN) from your live scan fingerprint receipt.
How to Apply
-
Obtain CDR Registration ▾Complete an ACEND-accredited program, 1,000+ hours of supervised practice, and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam. As of 2024, a Master's degree is required for new RDs.
-
Create a CORE Account ▾Register for an account on the IDFPR CORE online portal to begin the application process.
IDFPR CORE Portal -
Submit Application for Licensure ▾Select 'Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist' and choose 'Acceptance of Examination' if you are a new RDN. Complete the online forms and upload required documentation.
Start Application -
Complete Fingerprinting ▾If prompted by the portal, visit a licensed Illinois fingerprint vendor to complete a criminal background check. Out-of-state applicants must use the 'Card Scan' process.
Find Fingerprint Vendor -
Pay Application Fee ▾Pay the non-refundable $100 application fee through the CORE portal using a credit or debit card.
Pay Fee -
Wait for Board Review ▾The Dietetic and Nutrition Services Practice Board will review your credentials. You can track your application status in the CORE portal.
Check Status
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Applicants licensed in other jurisdictions may file an Endorsement application through the IDFPR, provided the requirements of the other state were substantially equivalent to Illinois' requirements at the time of original licensure, and the license remains in active and good standing.
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Ensure your current license in another state is active and in good standing.
-
Submit Endorsement Application ▾Apply via the CORE portal selecting the 'Endorsement' method.
Apply via Endorsement -
Request License Certification ▾Request that your original state of licensure send a formal certification of licensure directly to IDFPR.
-
Provide CDR Proof ▾Upload a copy of your current CDR card or primary source verification.
Total Fee
$100
Renewal Cycle
Biennial (Expires October 31 of odd-numbered years)
Compact
No
Board
Dietetic and Nutrition Services Practice Board
Keeping Your License Active
Illinois Dietitian licenses renew Biennial (Expires October 31 of odd-numbered years). Contact the Dietetic and Nutrition Services Practice Board for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Visit board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $100 |
| Endorsement application | $100 |
| Fingerprint check | $60.00 - $70.00 (varies by vendor; e.g., Accurate Biometrics is $67.00) |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 100.0 |
Slow Downs
Missing Mandatory CE
▾
Renewals require 1 hour of Sexual Harassment Prevention and 1 hour of Implicit Bias training. Failure to complete these specific topics will delay renewal.
Incomplete Transcripts
▾
Failing to provide official transcripts directly from the educational institution can stall the initial application.
Fingerprint Expiration
▾
Fingerprints must be taken within 60 days of the application submission; if they expire, a new scan is required.
Name Mismatch
▾
Discrepancies between the name on the CDR registration and the IDFPR application can cause verification failures.
Questions
When does my Illinois LDN license expire?
▾
All Dietitian Nutritionist licenses expire on October 31 of every odd-numbered year, regardless of when they were issued.
How many CE hours are required for renewal?
▾
You must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. This must include 1 hour of sexual harassment prevention and 1 hour of implicit bias awareness training.
Is a Master's degree required for licensure in Illinois?
▾
Illinois follows CDR standards. As of January 1, 2024, the CDR requires a Master's degree to sit for the RDN exam, effectively making it a requirement for new licensees.
Can I practice while my application is pending?
▾
No. You must have an active license issued by IDFPR to practice medical nutrition therapy or use the title 'Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist' in Illinois.
Board Info
Dietetic and Nutrition Services Practice Board
Phone(800) 560-6420