Pennsylvania Dietitian License

Transfer License

Steps

1. Submit Your Application ▾
   Apply through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The application fee is $95.
2. Provide License Verification ▾
   Pennsylvania requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
3. Request Official College Transcripts ▾
   Must be sent directly from your degree-granting university to the State Board of Nursing.
4. Submit Your Examination Verification ▾
   Verification of a passing score on the CDR or BCNS exam, sent directly from the testing agency.
5. Provide Child Abuse CE Certificate ▾
   A certificate proving completion of the mandatory 3-hour Pennsylvania child abuse recognition and reporting course.
6. Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾
   Pennsylvania requires a criminal background check for all applicants. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan (adds ~$39.95 fee) OR FD-258 hard card via mail (tip: moisturize hands for days prior to reduce smudge rejects). Completing prints outside Pennsylvania can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
7. Await Board Processing ▾
   Plan for a processing timeline of about 4 to 8 Weeks once your file is complete.
8. Create a PALS Account ▾
   Go to the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) at pals.pa.gov and register for a new user account if you do not already have one.
9. Arrange for Official Transcripts ▾
   Request your official college or university transcript, verifying a bachelor's or master's degree in human nutrition, food and nutrition, dietetics, or food systems management, to be sent directly to the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.
10. Complete Criminal History Record Check ▾
    Follow the instructions provided within the PALS system to complete the required Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) as part of your application.

Keeping Your License Active

Pennsylvania Dietitian licenses renew Biennial (Every 2 years). Contact the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.