The CDR exam is required for the RD credential in 45 states. To be eligible, you must complete an ACEND-accredited program and a dietetic internship. The exam costs $200 and covers nutrition care (40%), dietetic principles (25%), management (21%), and foodservice (14%).
You’ve completed an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree or higher, and your dietetic internship. Now you’re ready to clear that last hurdle before being able to legally offer your expertise to clients and help them achieve optimal nutrition. It’s time to gear up and prepare to take the CDR exam, the final step in becoming a registered dietitian (RD).
The Commission on Dietetic Registration examination is your gateway to national certification and the foundation for a rewarding career in dietetics. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about CDR exam requirements, registration, content, and what happens after you pass.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
Arizona State University - Online offers an Online Masters in Medical Nutrition
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Important Note: This guide focuses on the registered dietitian credential, which requires the CDR exam and extensive education. The title “nutritionist” is less regulated in many states and may not require the same level of training or certification as other professions. If you’re considering a career in nutrition, understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the right educational pathway.
Table of Contents
Why the CDR Exam is Critical for Your Dietetics Career
Passing the CDR exam is your gateway to a successful career in dietetics. It’s your ticket to national certification from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), the credentialing agency for nutrition and dietetics professionals. The exam is the only way you can earn the CDR’s national credential, the Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
Understanding RD and RDN Credentials
RD and RDN are different names for the exact same credential. The CDR allows you to use either title so you can tailor your professional designation toward the populations you serve. Both represent the gold standard in nutrition and dietetics credentialing.
Right now, passing the CDR exam and earning the national RD credential qualifies you for licensure or certification in 45 states. This examination is mandatory in all states that require the national RD credential for state-issued licensure or certification.
Career Benefits and Salary Impact
Earning your RD credential through the CDR exam positions you for higher pay and better job opportunities. As of May 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that registered dietitians earned an average salary of $74,770, while dietetic technicians earned an average salary of $39,560.
Job growth projections also favor registered dietitians. Between 2023 and 2033, the number of dietitian jobs is projected to increase by 7.4%, while dietetic technician jobs are projected to increase by only 4.3%. For more detailed salary information by state and specialty, see our comprehensive nutrition career salary guide.
State Requirements and RD Credential Mandates
Understanding which states require the RD credential is crucial for your career planning. With the exception of California and Virginia, all states license or certify dietitians and require the RD credential as part of the licensing process.
Note: State licensing requirements are subject to change. For the most current information on dietitian licensure by state, consult the CDR’s official licensure map before making career decisions.
States Requiring the National RD Credential
| Category | States | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Certification States | Connecticut, Indiana, Utah, Vermont, Wisconsin | RD credential required for state certification |
| Multiple Routes | Delaware, District of Columbia, Nebraska | RD credential is one possible licensure route |
| Non-Licensing States | California, Virginia | RD credential required by state law to use dietitian title |
| No Current Requirement | Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey | RD credential not currently required |
Special State Considerations
California and Virginia don’t have traditional licensure processes, but state law requires the RD credential to practice. California Business and Professional Code Chapter 5.65 makes it a misdemeanor for non-credentialed individuals to use the title “dietitian” or claim to be a dietitian. Virginia Code § 54.1-2731 similarly prohibits advertising as a dietitian or nutritionist without RD credentials.
Even in the five states that don’t currently require the RD credential, earning it can boost your resume and prepare you for potential future legislation that may make it mandatory.
Dietitian vs. Nutritionist: Understanding the Difference
It’s important to understand that “dietitian” and “nutritionist” are not interchangeable terms. The title “registered dietitian” is protected and requires CDR certification, while “nutritionist” is less regulated in many states. Some states permit individuals to use the title “nutritionist” with minimal or no formal training, while others have specific requirements. This distinction affects both educational pathways and career opportunities.
CDR Exam Eligibility and Registration Process
Who Can Take the CDR Exam
Anyone is eligible to take the CDR exam once they have completed an ACEND-accredited educational program and a dietetic internship. This national accessibility is important because any qualified candidate, regardless of their location, can earn this credential.
As you approach graduation from your dietetics program, your school will submit your name for examination eligibility to Pearson VUE, the CDR’s testing vendor.
Registration Timeline and Process
Once you complete your dietetic internship, Pearson VUE will email you instructions and links for exam registration. From the time you’re eligible, you have one year to take the exam. The Registration Examination for Dietitians Handbook for Candidates provides a comprehensive overview of the application and registration process.
After submitting payment online, you’ll receive scheduling instructions for your test date and location. Pearson VUE operates testing centers nationwide. You must bring your eligibility email and a driver’s license or state photo ID to the testing center.
Exam Content, Format, and What to Expect
Exam Format and Structure
CDR exams are computer-based and uniquely generated from a central question database. Each exam contains 125-145 randomized questions, which means your time limit varies based on the specific questions you receive.
Content Areas and Weightings
| Content Area | Percentage | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups | 40% | Assessment, screening, evaluation, monitoring, intervention, planning, diagnosis |
| Principles of Dietetics | 25% | Research applications, communication, education, technology, nutrient composition, food science |
| Management of Food and Nutrition Programs | 21% | Quality management, human resources, management functions, financial management, marketing |
| Foodservice Systems | 14% | Safety, sanitation, facility planning, equipment, menu development, distribution, procurement |
Exam Cost and Passing Requirements
The CDR exam costs $200. A scaled score of 25 or higher is required to pass. Because it’s a scaled score, the number of questions you must answer correctly varies slightly based on question difficulty.
After Passing: Maintaining Your RD Credential
Once you complete the exam, you’ll receive a printed score report immediately. When you pass, Pearson VUE sends information on maintaining your RD credential through annual maintenance fees and continuing education requirements.
Credential maintenance involves completing a professional development portfolio (PDP) on a five-year cycle. This ensures registered dietitians stay current with evolving nutrition science and practice standards.
If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you must wait 45 days before retaking the exam. You have the right to appeal your exam outcome through the CDR’s established procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the CDR exam cost?
The CDR exam costs $200. This fee covers exam administration through Pearson VUE testing centers.
How many times can I retake the CDR exam?
There’s no limit on retakes, but you must wait 45 days between attempts. Each retake requires paying the full $200 exam fee.
What score do I need to pass the CDR exam?
You need a scaled score of 25 or higher to pass. The number of correct answers required varies based on the question’s difficulty.
How long is the CDR exam?
The exam time limit varies based on the number of questions (125-145). Most candidates complete it within 3 hours.
Can I use a calculator during the CDR exam?
Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided during the examination for any necessary calculations.
What happens if my eligibility expires?
If your one-year eligibility window expires, contact the CDR directly. You may need to meet additional requirements to regain eligibility.
Which states require the RD credential to practice?
Currently, 45 states require the RD credential for dietitian licensure or certification. Only Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Montana, and New Jersey don’t currently require it, though earning the credential is still beneficial for career advancement. State requirements are subject to change, so please check the CDR licensure map for the most current information.
How long does it take to get CDR exam results?
You receive your score immediately after completing the computer-based exam. If you pass, you’ll get instructions on credential maintenance within a few days.
What’s the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist?
A registered dietitian (RD/RDN) is a protected title requiring CDR certification, ACEND-accredited education, and passing the CDR exam. The title “nutritionist” is less regulated and requirements vary by state, with some requiring minimal or no formal training.
## Key Takeaways
The CDR exam is your final step toward becoming a registered dietitian and accessing career opportunities in 45 states. Success requires completing an ACEND-accredited program, a dietetic internship, and thorough exam preparation. With a $200 investment and a focused study of the four content areas, you can earn the respected RD credential that opens doors to a rewarding career in nutrition.
Remember that passing the exam is just the beginning. Maintaining your credential through continuing education ensures that you stay current with the evolving field of nutrition science and best practices throughout your career.
Ready to advance your nutrition career?
Start your journey today by exploring accredited nutrition programs and understanding the complete pathway to becoming a registered dietitian.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
Arizona State University - Online offers an Online Masters in Medical Nutrition
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians and nutritionists and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
Disclaimer: State licensing requirements for dietitians and nutritionists are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with your state’s licensing board and the Commission on Dietetic Registration before making educational or career decisions.
