What is dietetic licensure and how do I become a Licensed Dietitian?
There are three levels of state regulation of the field of dietetics and currently 44 states have statuatory provisions regarding professional regulation of dietitians and/or nutritionists. The most restrictive of these regulations is licensure which means that the state statutes include an explicitly defined scope of practice, and performance of the profession is illegal without first obtaining a license from the state. Licensing of dietitians and nutritionists assures the public that individuals disseminating nutrition advice have the appropriate education and experience. Licensure laws protect the public from unscrupulous and unqualified individuals who would portray themselves as nutrition experts. It is the goal of the American Dietetic Association to have licensure for dietitians in all 50 states. Click here for a listing of state licensure agencies from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
