How to Become a Registered Dietitian in California

California offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring registered dietitians, with the highest average salaries in the nation and diverse career pathways spanning clinical, community, research, and private practice settings. With ACEND-accredited educational programs and 29 dietetic internship options across the state, California provides a comprehensive training infrastructure for nutrition professionals.

The path to becoming a registered dietitian in California requires completing accredited graduate-level education, gaining supervised practice experience, and passing a national examination. Important: As of January 1, 2024, a master’s degree is required to be eligible to take the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians. While California doesn’t require separate state licensure beyond CDR registration, maintaining your credentials demands ongoing professional development. This guide outlines each step of the process, from selecting an educational program through maintaining your registration and pursuing specialty certifications.

If you’re exploring other nutrition career options, learn more about how to become a nutritionist in California to understand the differences between these related professions.

Follow the step-by-step process or choose the section that best describes your current situation:

1. Complete Graduate-Level Registered Dietitian Education in California
2. Apply for Your Dietetic Internship in California
3. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
4. Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications
5. Explore Career Opportunities and Salary Outlook

Complete Graduate-Level Registered Dietitian Education in California

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.

Under California code, dietitians must hold CDR registration to practice in the state. This requires completing education accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). As of January 1, 2024, a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral level) is required to be eligible for the CDR Registration Examination. This represents a significant shift from previous requirements and affects all candidates seeking initial registration.

Understanding the 2024 Education Requirement Change

The master’s degree requirement means prospective RDs must complete graduate-level coursework in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field from an ACEND-accredited program. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, you can pursue a graduate degree that includes the required Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) coursework. This change aligns with trends in the healthcare profession toward advanced degrees and enhances the credibility and expertise of registered dietitians.

ACEND-Accredited Educational Pathways in California

California offers two primary educational pathways: Coordinated Programs (CP), which integrate coursework with supervised practice at the graduate level, and graduate Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD), which provide required academic preparation followed by a separate internship. Both pathways lead to a master’s degree or higher and meet the new 2024 requirement for CDR exam eligibility.

Graduate Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)

Coordinated programs combine educational coursework with supervised experiential learning at the graduate level, allowing you to complete both requirements simultaneously. These programs typically last 2-3 years and culminate in a master’s degree, along with eligibility for the CDR exam upon graduation. This integrated approach is often the most efficient pathway to RD credentials under the new requirements.

Loma Linda University, Loma Linda

• Master of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics (Coordinated Program)
• Master of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics (for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field)
• Master of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics (post-Didactic Program)
• Master of Public Health in Nutrition, Community Nutrition emphasis

California State University, Los Angeles

• Master of Science in Nutritional Science (Coordinated Program)

University of Southern California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, Los Angeles

• Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan, and Longevity

Graduate Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)

Graduate didactic programs provide the required academic coursework at the master’s level, meeting the 2024 education requirement. After completing your graduate DPD, you’ll need to complete a separate dietetic internship. This sequential approach offers flexibility in timing and location for your supervised practice experience.

California State University, Chico

• Master of Science in General Dietetics (for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field)

California State University, Los Angeles

• Master of Science in Nutritional Science

Undergraduate Programs: Foundation for Graduate Study

While a bachelor’s degree alone no longer qualifies you for the CDR exam, completing an undergraduate Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) provides the foundational coursework needed for graduate programs. If you’re starting your dietetics education, earning a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics from an ACEND-accredited program creates a strong foundation for graduate study.

California Undergraduate DPD Programs:

• University of California, Berkeley – Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science: Dietetics
• University of California, Davis – Bachelor of Science in Clinical Nutrition
• California State University, Fresno – Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutritional Sciences
• California State University, Long Beach – Bachelor of Science in Dietetics & Food Administration
• Pepperdine University, Malibu – Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science
• California State University, Northridge – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics & Food Science
• California State Polytechnic University, Pomona – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics Option
• California State University, Sacramento – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food
• California State University, San Bernardino – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Sciences
• Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego – Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• San Diego State University – Bachelor of Science in Foods and Nutrition
• San Francisco State University – Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition Science
• San Jose State University – Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science
• California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo – Bachelor of Science in Applied Nutrition

Alternative Online and Flexible Graduate Nutrition Programs

For students seeking flexible scheduling or exploring various nutrition specializations, several accredited online graduate programs offer quality instruction. When evaluating programs, verify ACEND accreditation status and confirm the program meets the 2024 graduate-level requirement for CDR exam eligibility.

Apply for Your Dietetic Internship in California

After completing your graduate coursework (unless you’re in a coordinated program that integrates both), you must complete supervised practice experience through an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship. These competitive dietetic internship programs require 1,200 hours of supervised practice and typically range from 8 months to 24 months in duration, depending on whether you pursue full-time or part-time study.

California offers 29 dietetic internship programs with diverse specializations, from mental health nutrition to community nutrition management. Application processes are highly competitive, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 40% to 60%. Strong academic performance (minimum 3.0 GPA recommended), relevant volunteer experience, and work in nutrition-related settings significantly improve your chances of acceptance.

California Dietetic Internship Programs

Note: Program details below reflect information available as of 2024. Prospective applicants should verify current program status, requirements, and specializations through the official ACEND program directory and individual program websites, as offerings may change.

Internship applications typically open each spring through the centralized D&D Digital matching system. Prepare application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and verification statements from your DPD program director. Many California programs prefer candidates with Spanish language skills, given the state’s diverse population.

Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination

Upon completing your graduate education and supervised practice requirements, you’re eligible to take the CDR registration exam. The Commission on Dietetic Registration will send you an email confirming your eligibility once you’ve met all educational and experiential requirements. You have one year from your eligibility date to schedule and complete the exam. Beginning in 2024, CDR also offers a Test Bundle option that provides two exam attempts within one year for candidates who want the security of a second opportunity.

Preparing for the CDR Exam

The CDR exam is a computer-adaptive test administered at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout California. The exam duration is 3 hours (extended from 2.5 hours as of 2024) and assesses your competency across four domains: Food and Nutrition Sciences, Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups, Management of Food and Nutrition Programs and Services, and Foodservice Systems. You must answer a minimum of 125 questions, with the exam adapting its difficulty based on your responses.

Review preparation resources include the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ EatRightPREP for the RDN Exam and the Registration Examination for Dietitians Handbook for Candidates. The exam costs $200, payable through the CDR portal. Once your payment is processed, Pearson VUE will contact you to schedule your exam date and location.

California CDR Exam Testing Centers

California offers 26 Pearson VUE testing centers across the state, providing convenient access regardless of your location:

• Alhambra – 1000 South Fremont Ave, A7 Building, Suite 300
• Anaheim – 2125 E. Katella Ave, Suite 200
• Culver City – 300 Corporate Pointe, Suite 200
• Daly City – 2001 Junipero Serra Blvd., Suite 530
• Fairfield – 4820 Business Center Drive, Suite 150
• Fresno – 7555 N. Palm Ave, Suite 205
• Gardena – 1515 West 190th St., Suite 405
• Lake Forest – 23792 Rockfield Blvd, Suite 200
• Milpitas – 1551 McCarthy Blvd, Suite 108
• Oakland – 1000 Broadway, Suite 470
• Ontario – 3401 Centrelake Drive, Suite 675
• Pasadena – 70 S. Lake Ave, Suite 840
• Redding – 2190 Larkspur Lane, Suite 400
• Redlands – 1690 Barton Rd, Suite 102
• Roseville – 3010 Lava Ridge Court, Suite 170
• Sacramento – 8950 Cal Center Drive, Suite 215, Building #1
• Sacramento – 2295 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 150
• San Diego – 11770 Bernardo Plaza Court, Suite 463
• San Diego – 9150 Chesapeake Drive, Suite 100
• San Diego – 3838 Camino Del Rio N, Suite 205
• San Dimas – 140 Via Verde, Suite 110
• San Francisco – 201 Filbert St., Suite 200
• San Marcos – 570 Rancheros Drive, Suite 110
• San Mateo – 1825 South Grant St., Suite 705
• Santa Maria – 1010 South Broadway, Suite F
• Visalia – 5300 West Tulare Ave, Suite 108
• Westlake Village – 875 South Westlake Blvd., Suite 106

Exam Scoring and Retake Policy

A scaled score of 25 or higher passes the exam. The national first-time pass rate is approximately 80-85%, with California graduates from ACEND-accredited programs typically performing at or above this average. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you may retake the exam no sooner than 45 days after your test date. The Test Bundle option (available since 2024) provides two exam attempts within the one-year eligibility window, offering additional security for candidates. Contact CDR through their website for retake procedures, Test Bundle information, and additional preparation resources.

Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications

Your CDR registration as a registered dietitian requires renewal every five years. Maintaining your RD certification involves completing 75 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs) during each five-year period, with at least one ethics course required per cycle. The CDR’s Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) Guide helps you select appropriate continuing education activities aligned with your practice area and career goals.

Understanding Registration vs. Licensure in California

It’s important to understand the distinction between CDR registration and state licensure. CDR registration is a national credential issued by the Commission on Dietetic Registration that qualifies you to use the titles “Registered Dietitian” (RD) or “Registered Dietitian Nutritionist” (RDN). This credential is recognized across all states and territories.

State licensure, by contrast, is a separate legal requirement imposed by individual states to regulate the practice of dietetics within their borders. California does not require separate state licensure for registered dietitians beyond CDR registration. This means once you hold active CDR credentials, you can practice as an RD in California without additional state-level licensing requirements. Some states do require both CDR registration and state licensure, making California’s approach more streamlined for practitioners.

Note that some healthcare facilities, insurance companies, or employers may have additional credentialing requirements beyond CDR registration for employment or reimbursement eligibility; however, these are typically institutional rather than state requirements.

Specialty Certifications for California RDs

Pursuing specialty certifications can fulfill your CPEU requirements while demonstrating advanced expertise in specific practice areas. Many of these certifications fulfill all 75 CPEUs for a five-year period, and recertification in the same specialty can satisfy the requirements for subsequent cycles.

Alternative Career Path: Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR)

California students interested in dietetics but seeking a faster entry point can pursue the Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) credential. This certification requires an associate’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program and 450 hours of supervised practice experience, typically completed over 2-3 years. DTRs work under the supervision of RDs in clinical, community, and foodservice settings, providing an opportunity to explore the field before committing to the full requirements of an RD.

California ACEND-Accredited DTR Programs:

• Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa – Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Technology
• Merritt College, Oakland – Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology
• Santa Rosa Junior College, Santa Rosa – Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology

DTR programs typically integrate coursework with supervised practice, and upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the CDR Dietetic Technician, Registered Exam. Many DTRs later pursue RD credentials by completing the required graduate degree and internship requirements.

Explore Career Opportunities and Salary Outlook in California

California offers exceptional career opportunities for registered dietitians, with the highest average compensation in the nation and diverse practice settings across clinical, community, research, and private practice environments. The state’s large, health-conscious population and emphasis on preventive healthcare create strong demand for nutrition professionals.

California RD Salary Data and Job Market

According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), California was home to 11,794 Registered Dietitians and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists as of June 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that dietitians and nutritionists in California earned an average salary of $94,390 as of May 2024, ranking first in the nation for RD compensation.

Top-Paying Metro Areas for California RDs

California dominates the list of highest-paying metropolitan areas for dietitians and nutritionists. As of May 2024, eight of the top ten metro areas for average RD pay were located in California:

Career Settings and Specializations

California RDs work across diverse practice settings, including:

• Clinical Dietetics: Hospitals, medical centers, rehabilitation facilities, long-term care
• Community Nutrition: Public health departments, WIC programs, community clinics
• Private Practice: Individual counseling, group programs, corporate wellness
• Research: Universities, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies
• Food Service Management: Healthcare facilities, schools, corporate dining
• Sports Nutrition: Athletic teams, fitness centers, performance training facilities
• Media and Communications: Nutrition writing, consulting, social media, broadcasting
• Technology: Health apps, telehealth platforms, nutrition software development

California’s tech industry, entertainment sector, and health-conscious population create unique opportunities for RDs in emerging fields like nutrition technology, culinary nutrition, and integrative healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in California?

The complete process typically takes 5-7 years under the 2024 requirements. You’ll need approximately 4 years for a bachelor’s degree (if pursuing an undergraduate foundation first), 2-3 years for a master’s degree with or without an integrated internship, and 2-3 months to schedule and pass the CDR exam. Graduate coordinated programs that integrate education and internship may reduce this timeline. Students entering with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can complete a graduate DPD plus internship in approximately 3-4 years.

Do I need a license to practice as a registered dietitian in California?

California does not require separate state licensure for registered dietitians beyond CDR registration. Once you hold active CDR registration (the national credential), you can practice as an RD or RDN in California. You must maintain your CDR registration by completing 75 CPEUs every five years. This differs from some states that require both CDR registration and separate state licensure. Some healthcare facilities and insurance companies may have additional credentialing requirements for employment or reimbursement eligibility.

Can I still become an RD if I only have a bachelor’s degree?

If you already completed a bachelor’s degree in dietetics before January 1, 2024, and are currently enrolled in or have been accepted to a dietetic internship, you may be grandfathered under the previous requirements. However, as of January 2024, new applicants must have completed a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral level) to be eligible for the CDR exam. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can pursue a graduate program that includes DPD coursework or enroll in a coordinated master’s program.

What’s the pass rate for the CDR registration exam?

The national pass rate for first-time test-takers is approximately 80-85%. California graduates from ACEND-accredited programs typically perform at or above the national average. Pass rates vary by program, with stronger academic preparation, practical experience, and dedicated exam preparation correlating with higher success rates. The 2024 Test Bundle option provides two exam attempts within one year for added security.

How competitive are dietetic internships in California?

California dietetic internships are highly competitive, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 40% to 60% depending on the program. Factors that strengthen applications include maintaining a GPA above 3.0 (preferably 3.5+), relevant volunteer experience in healthcare or nutrition settings, work experience in food service or nutrition, strong letters of recommendation from faculty or RD professionals, and a compelling personal statement demonstrating commitment to the field and understanding of the profession.

Can I transfer my RD credentials to California from another state?

Yes. CDR registration is recognized nationally, so if you’re already a registered dietitian in another state, you can practice in California without additional state-specific requirements. Simply maintain your active CDR registration and ensure you meet any specific employer or facility credentialing requirements. California’s lack of separate state licensure makes it easier for RDs to relocate there compared to states that require both CDR registration and state licensure.

What’s the difference between an RD and a nutritionist in California?

In California, the titles “registered dietitian” and “registered dietitian nutritionist” are legally protected and require CDR registration, which mandates specific graduate-level education, 1,200 hours of supervised practice, and passing the CDR exam. “Nutritionist” is not a protected title in California, meaning anyone can use it regardless of education or credentials. RDs have broader practice rights, including medical nutrition therapy in clinical settings, eligibility for insurance reimbursement, and the ability to provide nutrition care in regulated healthcare environments. Learn more about the distinction and requirements to become a nutritionist in California.

Key Takeaways

• As of January 1, 2024, a master’s degree is required to be eligible for the CDR Registration Examination, representing a significant change from previous bachelor ‘s-level requirements
• California offers ACEND-accredited graduate coordinated programs and didactic programs, plus 29 dietetic internship programs requiring 1,200 hours of supervised practice
• The CDR exam now provides 3 hours for completion (extended from 2.5 hours) and offers a Test Bundle option with two exam attempts within one year
• California registered dietitians earn the highest average salary in the nation at $94,390 as of May 2024, with experienced professionals earning upward of $127,460 annually
• Eight of the top ten highest-paying metro areas for dietitians are located in California, led by Vallejo ($111,330), San Jose ($109,220), and San Francisco ($102,290)
• California does not require separate state licensure beyond CDR registration, unlike some states that require both national certification and state licensing
• Maintaining RD credentials requires 75 CPEUs every five years, which can be fulfilled through specialty certifications in areas like oncology, sports dietetics, or pediatric nutrition

Ready to Start Your Registered Dietitian Career in California?

California offers exceptional opportunities for registered dietitians, with the nation’s highest salaries, diverse practice settings, and strong job growth projections. Whether you’re drawn to clinical nutrition, community health, sports performance, or private practice, California’s comprehensive educational infrastructure and robust healthcare system provide an ideal foundation for your career in dietetics.

Take the first step by exploring ACEND-accredited graduate nutrition programs and dietetic internships throughout California. Compare program specializations, degree types (coordinated vs. sequential pathways), locations, and formats to find the best fit for your educational background and career goals. Remember that the 2024 graduate degree requirement means you’ll need to plan for master ‘s-level education as part of your RD journey.

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.

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians, nutritionists, and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed September 2025.

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD, is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritional Epidemiologist with over 18 years of experience in evidence-based nutrition. Holding a PhD from the University of Copenhagen, she specializes in dietary interventions for metabolic health and sustainable eating. Dr. Voss has published in leading journals like The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and contributed to global wellness programs

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