North Carolina Dietitian License
North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition
Total Fee
$248
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks (includes background check)
Fingerprints
Required
Local Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs)
Temp License
Available
$133,
What You'll Need
- Government-Issued Photo ID — A clear copy of a valid driver's license, passport, or state ID.
- CDR Card — A copy of your current Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) card or online certificate (required for Category A). Get CDR Card
- Fingerprint Release Form — The Electronic Fingerprint Submission Release of Information form, signed by both the applicant and the law enforcement official. Download Forms
- Form B2: Supervisor Verification Statement — Required only for Category B (Provisional) applicants to verify they are working under an NC licensed supervisor. Download Form B2
How to Apply
-
Create a Gateway Account ▾Register for a secure account on the NCBDN Credentialing Gateway to begin the application process.
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Submit Online Application ▾Log in and select the appropriate application category (Category A for RDs, Category B for Registration Eligible). Complete the online form and pay the non-refundable application fee.
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Initiate Criminal Background Check ▾Follow the board's specific instructions for fingerprinting. In-state applicants use LiveScan; out-of-state applicants must request and mail paper FD-258 cards.
Background Check Instructions -
Upload Required Documents ▾Upload a copy of your government-issued photo ID, CDR card (if applicable), and any required supplemental forms (like Form B2 for provisional applicants) to your Gateway checklist.
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Submit Fingerprint Release Form ▾After being fingerprinted, you must upload the signed and dated Electronic Fingerprint Submission Release of Information form to your Gateway account.
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Wait for Board Review ▾Staff typically reviews applications within 2-3 business days. The background check results can take 3-5 weeks to process.
Total Fee
$248
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks (includes background check)
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
North Carolina offers licensure by reciprocity under Category D for applicants currently licensed in another state whose qualifications do not fit into other categories (non-RD, non-CNS). Category D does not have an online application; applicants must contact the NCBDN directly. All RD/RDNs applying from out of state should apply under Category A, the standard pathway. The Board may grant a license if the other state's requirements are substantially the same as North Carolina's.
Steps
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Verify CDR Status ▾Ensure your national registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) is active and in good standing.
Verify CDR -
Apply via Category A ▾Out-of-state Registered Dietitians must apply under Category A. Provide details of all other state licenses held.
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Complete NC Background Check ▾Even if you have a background check from another state, you must complete the North Carolina-specific fingerprinting process.
CBC Instructions -
Upload Out-of-State License Details ▾List all current and past professional licenses in the Gateway portal as part of the application.
Total Fee
$95
Renewal Cycle
Annual (by March 31) + 30 CE hours per 2 years
Compact
No
Board
North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition
Keeping Your License Active
North Carolina Dietitian licenses renew Annual (by March 31) + 30 CE hours per 2 years. Contact the North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Visit board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $248 |
| Endorsement application | $248 |
| Fingerprint check | Varies by location (typically $10–$30 paid to the law enforcement agency) |
| Temporary permit | $133, |
| Renewal | 95.0 |
Slow Downs
Incomplete Application Package
▾
Applications expire automatically after 4 months if all documents and fees are not received. Ensure all checklist items in the Gateway are marked complete.
Background Check Processing
▾
The SBI/FBI background check typically takes 3-5 weeks. The Board cannot expedite this process as it is handled by the State Bureau of Investigation.
Missing Fingerprint Release Form
▾
The Board cannot process background check results until the signed and dated Release of Information form is uploaded to the Gateway.
Spam/Junk Email Filters
▾
Official communications are sent via email. Applicants often miss requests for additional information because emails from info@ncbdn.org or gateway@ncbdn.org are filtered.
Questions
When does my North Carolina dietitian license expire?
▾
All licenses expire annually on March 31st, regardless of the date of issuance.
What are the continuing education (CE) requirements?
▾
Category A licensees (RDNs) must maintain their CDR registration, which requires 75 hours every 5 years. Other categories may have different requirements specified in the rules.
How much does it cost to get licensed?
▾
The total initial fee for a Category A (LDN) license is $248 ($60 application + $150 issuance + $38 background check).
Can I practice while my application is pending?
▾
No. You must have an active license or a provisional license issued by the NCBDN before providing medical nutrition therapy or using protected titles in North Carolina.
How long is a provisional license valid?
▾
A provisional license (PLDN or PLN) is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and cannot be renewed.
Board Info
North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition (NCBDN)
Phone(919) 388-1931