Quick Facts at a Glance
- Application Fee
- $100
- ~$100 application fee (exact amount set by LBEDN; fingerprint fees additional)
- Processing
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Subject to board volume
- Renewal
- $83
- Annual (by June 30) + 15 CE hours per year
- License Duration
- 1 Year (expires June 30)
- From date of issuance
Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition (LBEDN)
Independent State Board- Phone
- (225) 756-3480
- Mailing Address
- 18435 Highland Road, Suite B
Baton Rouge, LA 70809 - Physical Address
- 18435 Highland Road, Suite B
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Louisiana Dietitian License Types
Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN)
The mandatory credential to use the titles 'dietitian,' 'dietician,' or 'nutritionist' and to practice dietetics or provide nutrition care services in Louisiana. Title protection is strictly enforced.
How to Get Licensed in Louisiana
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program in dietetics, human nutrition, or a related field. Complete at least 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship or coordinated program.
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians. As of 2025, a master's degree is required for new exam candidates.
Submit the Application to LBEDN
Complete and submit the licensure application to the Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition. Pay the application fee. Include all required supporting documents.
Complete Fingerprint Background Check
Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal background check as required by Louisiana law. The fingerprinting fee is paid separately by the applicant.
Application Checklist
-
CDR Registration Verification Proof of current, active registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
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Official College Transcripts From an ACEND-accredited program showing degree completion.
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Supervised Practice Verification Documentation of 1,200+ hours of ACEND-accredited supervised practice.
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Fingerprint Background Check Fingerprint-based background check as mandated by 2025 legislation.
Provisional Practice & Reciprocity
Louisiana does not currently offer a provisional or temporary dietitian-nutritionist license. Applicants must complete all requirements, including CDR registration and background check, before licensure is granted.
Louisiana does not have a formal reciprocity agreement for out-of-state dietitians. Applicants licensed in other states must apply for a new Louisiana LDN through the standard process. Louisiana is actively monitoring the Dietitian Licensure Compact initiative, which could enable interstate practice if adopted.
If your assignment start date is within 5 weeks, apply immediately and call the board at (225) 756-3480 to confirm current processing times.
Note: Louisiana does not offer a standard provisional license, so your license must be issued before your first day.
Renewal Requirements
Louisiana dietitian licenses renew annual (by june 30) + 15 ce hours per year. Renewal fee is $83.
Louisiana Dietitian FAQ
How much does a Louisiana dietitian license cost?
The initial application fee is approximately $100 (set by LBEDN; contact the Board for the current exact amount). Annual renewal submitted by June 30 is $83. Late renewal (July 1 – August 31) increases to $163. Fingerprint background check fees are additional.
What continuing education does Louisiana require?
Louisiana requires a minimum of 15 continuing education hours annually in dietetics and nutrition, submitted with your renewal. Alternatively, you may provide a copy of your current CDR identification card to satisfy the CE requirement.
Does Louisiana enforce title protection for dietitians?
Yes. Louisiana law mandates that only individuals with a valid LDN license may use the titles 'dietitian,' 'dietician,' or 'nutritionist' — or practice dietetics/nutrition care services. Exemptions exist for certain licensed healthcare professionals performing nutrition work incidental to their scope.