South Carolina — Spanish moss over Charleston alley

South Carolina Dietitian License

Panel for Dietetics

Total Fee
$175
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Not available
N/A

What You'll Need

  • Verification of Lawful Presence — A notarized form confirming your legal right to work in the United States.
  • Passport-Style Photo — A recent (within 12 months), 2x2 passport-style color photograph.
  • Official Transcripts — Transcripts must be sent directly from the educational institution to contact.dietetics@llr.sc.gov.
  • CDR Registration Card — A copy of your current, signed registration card from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
  • Social Security Card — A copy of your signed Social Security card.

How to Apply

  1. Obtain National Registration
    You must first become a Registered Dietitian (RD) through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) before applying for South Carolina licensure.
    Visit CDR Website
  2. Submit Online Application
    Create an account and complete the electronic application through the SC LLR portal. You can also download a paper application if preferred.
  3. Pay Application Fee
    Pay the non-refundable $175 application fee via credit card or e-check through the online portal.
    View Fee Schedule
  4. Submit Required Identification
    Upload or mail a copy of your valid driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport, along with a copy of your signed Social Security card.
  5. Request Official Transcripts
    Contact your college or university to have official transcripts sent directly to the Panel office via email or mail.
  6. Verify CDR Status
    Provide a copy of your current, signed CDR registration card as proof of national certification.
Total Fee
$175
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Not required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Requirements
Out-of-state dietitians applying for South Carolina licensure must submit a license verification from their current state board, in addition to the standard application materials. South Carolina is considering a Dietitian Licensure Compact (Bill 160) that would enable interstate practice. If previously licensed in another state, the Panel may consider your credentials under the existing application framework. Applicants with foreign education must have credentials independently validated.

Steps

  1. Verify Out-of-State License
    Contact the state board where you are currently licensed and request an official verification be sent directly to the South Carolina Panel.
  2. Submit Endorsement Application
    Complete the standard application for licensure and select the endorsement option.
  3. Provide Proof of CDR Registration
    Submit a copy of your current CDR card to demonstrate national credentials.
Total Fee
$100
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years (by May 31, odd years) + 30 CE hours
Compact
No
Board
Panel for Dietetics

Keeping Your License Active

South Carolina Dietitian licenses renew Every 2 years (by May 31, odd years) + 30 CE hours. Contact the Panel for Dietetics for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$175
Endorsement application$175
Temporary permitN/A
Renewal100.0

Slow Downs

Indirect Transcript Submission
Transcripts must be sent directly from the school. Unsealed or student-provided transcripts will be rejected.
Incomplete Notarization
The Verification of Lawful Presence form must be fully notarized; missing seals or signatures will halt the application.
Name Discrepancies
If your name on transcripts or CDR card differs from your application, you must provide legal documentation like a marriage certificate.

Questions

Is a Registered Dietitian (RD) credential required for licensure?
Yes. All applicants must have a current registration issued by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) to be eligible for a South Carolina license.
When does my South Carolina dietitian license expire?
Licenses expire on May 31 of odd-numbered years (e.g., 2025, 2027).
What are the continuing education (CE) requirements?
South Carolina requires you to maintain your CDR registration. Maintaining active CDR status satisfies the state's CE requirements.
Can I practice tele-dietetics in South Carolina without a license?
No. Anyone conducting tele-dietetics for patients located in South Carolina must hold a valid South Carolina Dietitian license.

Board Info

Sources
Panel for Dietetics State statutes
Last verified 2026-02-25