Quick Facts at a Glance
- Application Fee
- $140
- $140 application fee (includes state regulatory fee)
- Processing
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Subject to board volume
- Renewal
- $90
- Every 2 years (by birth month) — no CE required for state renewal
- License Duration
- 2 Years
- From date of issuance
Board of Dietitian/Nutritionist Examiners
Tennessee Department of Health- Phone
- (615) 532-3202
- Mailing Address
- 665 Mainstream Drive
Nashville, TN 37243 - Physical Address
- 665 Mainstream Drive
Nashville, TN 37243
Tennessee Dietitian License Types
Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN)
The standard credential required to practice dietetics or nutrition in Tennessee, regulated by the Board of Dietitian/Nutritionist Examiners under the Department of Health.
Temporary Permit
Available for applicants who have been approved by CDR to sit for the registration exam but have not yet passed it. Costs $5 and is valid until exam results are received. Requires a complete application on file.
How to Get Licensed in Tennessee
Complete Education & Supervised Practice
Earn a master's degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program in dietetics, human nutrition, or a related field. Complete at least 1,200 hours of ACEND-accredited supervised practice.
Pass the CDR Examination
Successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Registration Examination for Dietitians. The CDR exam fee is $200.
Submit the Online Application
Apply through the Tennessee Online Application system. Pay the non-refundable $140 application fee. Include a passport-style photo and declaration of citizenship form.
Complete Background Check & Provide Documentation
Authorize and complete a criminal background check. Submit official transcripts, proof of CDR registration, verification of supervised practice completion, and a letter of recommendation.
Application Checklist
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Official College Transcripts Sent directly from the degree-granting institution, showing degree and date awarded.
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CDR Registration Card Copy of your current, active Commission on Dietetic Registration credential.
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Supervised Practice Verification Documentation verifying completion of ACEND-accredited supervised practice hours.
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Passport-Style Photograph Recent photo meeting standard passport specifications.
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Criminal Background Check Authorization Mandatory background screening as part of the application process.
Provisional Practice & Reciprocity
Tennessee offers a temporary permit for $5 to applicants who have completed all requirements except passing the CDR exam. The permit holder must have CDR authorization to test and a complete application on file with the Board. The permit is valid until exam results are received and does not require supervision.
Tennessee does not offer formal licensure by endorsement or reciprocity. Out-of-state dietitians must apply for a new Tennessee license through the standard application process, which requires current CDR registration, a complete application, and a background check. Holding an active CDR credential satisfies the education and examination requirements.
If your assignment start date is within 5 weeks, apply immediately and call the board at (615) 532-3202 to confirm current processing times.
Note: Tennessee does not offer a standard provisional license, so your license must be issued before your first day.
Renewal Requirements
Tennessee dietitian licenses renew every 2 years (by birth month) — no ce required for state renewal. Renewal fee is $90.
Tennessee Dietitian FAQ
How much does a Tennessee dietitian license cost?
The initial application fee is $140, which includes the state regulatory fee. The CDR exam costs an additional $200. The biennial renewal fee is $90, due by the last day of your birth month.
Does Tennessee require continuing education for dietitians?
Tennessee does not mandate state-level continuing education for license renewal. However, to maintain your CDR registration — which is required for state licensure — you must complete 75 continuing professional education units every five years.
Can I practice in Tennessee while waiting for my license?
Tennessee offers a temporary permit for $5 for applicants who have CDR authorization to test. This permit allows practice while you await your exam results, provided your application is complete and on file with the Board.