Quick Facts at a Glance
- Application Fee
- $300
- $75 application + $225 licensure
- Processing
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Subject to board volume
- Renewal
- $250
- Every 2 years + 30 CPE hours (incl. implicit bias)
- License Duration
- 2 Years
- From date of issuance
Board of Dietetic Practice
Maryland Department of Health (MDH)- Phone
- (410) 764-4733
- Mailing Address
- Metro Executive Building
4201 Patterson Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215-2299 - Physical Address
- 4201 Patterson Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215
Maryland Dietitian License Types
Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN)
The standard credential to practice dietetics and medical nutrition therapy in Maryland. Requires current CDR registration as an RD/RDN or CNS certification.
How to Get Licensed in Maryland
Obtain CDR Registration or CNS Certification
Complete all requirements to become a Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) through the Commission on Dietetic Registration, or obtain Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) certification. This includes a master's degree (as of 2024), 1,200 hours of supervised practice, and passing the national exam.
Complete the Maryland Application
Submit the application online through the Board of Dietetic Practice portal or download and mail a paper application. If submitting by paper, the signature page must be notarized.
Pay the $300 Initial Fee
Submit the non-refundable $300 combined application and licensure fee. Online payments accept Visa/MasterCard. Paper applications accept check or money order payable to the Maryland Board of Dietetic Practice.
Submit Official Transcripts & Documentation
Have official transcripts sent directly from your accredited institution to the Board. Provide your CDR or CNS registration number for verification. A criminal history records check may be required.
Application Checklist
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Official College Transcripts From an accredited college or university, may be emailed to Lenelle.Cooper@maryland.gov or mailed to the Board.
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CDR or CNS Registration Number Your Commission on Dietetic Registration (RD/RDN) or Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (CNS) number for direct verification.
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Completed Application Form Paper applications require notarized signature page.
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Criminal History Records Check May be required at the Board's discretion during the application process.
Provisional Practice & Reciprocity
Maryland does not offer a provisional or temporary license for dietitians. A current, valid CDR registration (RD/RDN) or CNS certification is required before a license can be issued.
Maryland requires state-specific licensure to practice, even if you are licensed in another state. However, the process is streamlined for Registered Dietitians who already hold CDR registration. Out-of-state licensees apply through the standard application process and can transfer their CDR registration. Contact the Board directly for specific reciprocity guidance.
If your assignment start date is within 5 weeks, apply immediately and call the board at (410) 764-4733 to confirm current processing times.
Note: Maryland does not offer a standard provisional license, so your license must be issued before your first day.
Renewal Requirements
Maryland dietitian licenses renew every 2 years + 30 cpe hours (incl. implicit bias). Renewal fee is $250.
Maryland Dietitian FAQ
How much does a Maryland dietitian license cost?
The initial combined application and licensure fee is $300 (a non-refundable one-time payment). Biennial renewal costs $250, which may include a $26 MHCC user fee.
Which Maryland agency regulates dietitians?
The Board of Dietetic Practice, which operates under the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), is the regulatory body for dietitian licensure in Maryland.
What are the continuing education requirements for Maryland dietitians?
Licensees must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) during each two-year renewal cycle. This must include a one-time implicit bias CEU, which can count toward the 30-hour total. The Board may conduct random audits.