To become a registered dietitian in DC, complete an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree, finish a dietetic internship, pass the CDR examination, and apply for DC licensure ($229 fee). The complete process typically takes 4-5 years.
The District of Columbia offers unique opportunities for nutrition professionals in our nation’s capital, where registered dietitians play crucial roles in public health initiatives, government agencies, and healthcare institutions. As of June 2025, the Commission on Dietetic Registration reported 234 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) practicing in Washington, DC.
With an average salary of $75,140 compared to the national average of $74,770, DC provides competitive compensation for nutrition professionals. The District’s unique regulatory framework requires specific licensing procedures that differ from traditional state requirements.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education in DC
- Apply for Dietetic Internship (DI) in the DC Area
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Apply for Dietitian Licensure in DC
- Maintain Your Registration and Pursue Certifications
Complete Registered Dietitian Education in DC
The District of Columbia Board of Dietetics and Nutrition requires completion of education accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). DC offers both coordinated programs and didactic programs to meet these requirements.
ACEND-Accredited Programs in DC
| Institution | Program Type | Degree | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Howard University | Coordinated Program (CP) | B.S. in Nutritional Sciences | Combines education + internship |
| University of the District of Columbia | Didactic Program (DPD) | B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics | Education only, internship required after |
Coordinated Programs (CP) satisfy both educational and internship requirements in one integrated program. Didactic Programs (DPD) provide the educational foundation but require a separate dietetic internship afterward.
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.
Core Curriculum Requirements
All ACEND-accredited programs include comprehensive coursework in:
- Science Foundation: Chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, and anatomy
- Mathematics: Statistics and quantitative analysis
- Nutrition Science: Macro and micronutrients, metabolism, and life cycle nutrition
- Clinical Applications: Medical nutrition therapy and clinical nutritional care
- Community Focus: Public health nutrition and community nutrition programs
- Foodservice Management: Food production, safety, and service systems
- Professional Development: Nutrition education, counseling techniques, and research methods
Apply for Dietetic Internship (DI) in the DC Area
After completing your educational requirements, you must gain supervised practice experience through an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship. While DC currently has no dietetic internships within the District (as verified through current ACEND listings), several high-quality programs operate in nearby Maryland and Virginia.
DC Area Dietetic Internship Programs
| Program | Duration | Format | Specialty Focus | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center | 10 months | Full-time, non-degree | Nutrition Therapy | Baltimore, MD |
| University of Maryland Medical Center | 10 months | Full-time, non-degree | Nutrition Support | Baltimore, MD |
| National Institutes of Health (NIH) | 10 months | Full-time, non-degree | Clinical Nutrition Research | Bethesda, MD |
| University of Maryland College Park | 11 months | Full-time, non-degree | Communication & IT Management | College Park, MD |
| University of Maryland Eastern Shore | 10 months | Full-time, non-degree | Diabetes Management | Princess Anne, MD |
Dietetic internships are highly competitive, with a national match rate typically between 60%-75% depending on the year (around 73% as of 2024). Applications are submitted through the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System (DICAS) each spring for positions starting the following fall.
Internship Application Requirements
Most DC area programs require:
- Completed DPD program with verification statement
- Minimum GPA: 3.0-3.2 (varies by program)
- Work/volunteer experience: 200+ hours in nutrition-related settings
- GRE scores: Required for some programs
- Letters of recommendation: 3-4 professional references
- Personal statement: Career goals and motivation
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
Upon completing your education and internship, you’re eligible to take the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians. This computer-based exam is the national credentialing examination that qualifies you to use the Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential.
Exam Details and Format
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based, multiple-choice |
| Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Questions | 125-145 questions |
| Passing Score | Scaled score of 25 or higher (scale 0-50) |
| Cost | $200 |
| Results | Available same day |
DC Area Testing Centers
Pearson VUE testing centers in the DC metropolitan area include:
- Washington, DC: 901 New York Ave NW, Suite 320
- Washington, DC: 601 New Jersey Ave NW, Suite 340
- Bethesda, MD: 4350 East-West Highway, Suite 525, Bethesda Towers
- Alexandria, VA: 1900 North Beauregard Street, Suite 12
- Reston, VA: 11150 Sunset Hills Rd, Suite 300
Exam Content Areas
The examination covers four main domains:
- Food and Nutrition Sciences (20%): Nutrient metabolism, biochemistry, and physiology
- Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups (40%): Assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring
- Management of Food and Nutrition Services (25%): Operations, personnel, and quality management
- Food Service Systems (15%): Menu planning, food safety, and production systems
If you don’t pass on the first attempt, you can retake the exam after a 45-day waiting period. Contact CDR at [email protected] or (312) 899-4859 for retesting information.
Apply for Dietitian Licensure in DC
The District of Columbia requires all practicing dietitians to obtain professional licensure through the DC Board of Dietetics and Nutrition. This licensure is mandatory to practice as a dietitian in DC and use protected titles.
DC Dietitian License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree minimum |
| Experience | ACEND-accredited dietetic internship completion |
| Examination | Pass CDR Registration Examination |
| Registration | Current CDR registration as RD/RDN |
| License Fee | $229 (check or money order only) |
| Background Check | Criminal background check with fingerprinting |
Application Process and Required Documents
Submit the following documents to the DC Board of Dietetics and Nutrition:
- Completed application: New License Application for Dietitians
- License fee: $229 check or money order payable to “DC Treasurer”
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos with your name on the back
- CDR documentation: Current copy of your CDR registration card
- Identification: Copy of driver’s license or government-issued photo ID
- Supporting forms:
- Supplemental Information Form
- Supervision Verification Form
- Character Reference Form
- Supervised Practice Form
Mailing Address:
DC Board of Dietetics and Nutrition
P.O. Box 37802
Washington, DC 20013
Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks once all required documents and fees are received. Your license will be mailed to the address provided on your application.
Alternative Path: Nutritionist Licensure in DC
DC also offers nutritionist licensure for qualified professionals. Requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree in dietetics, human nutrition, food systems management, or related field
- 900 hours pre-professional experience (22-25 weeks minimum)
- Pass the CDR examination
- Complete licensing application with $264 fee
Maintain Your Registration and Pursue Certifications
Maintaining your credentials requires ongoing education and renewal of both your CDR registration and DC license. This ensures you stay current with evolving nutrition science and practice standards.
DC License Renewal Requirements
| Requirement | DC License | CDR Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Renewal Period | Every 2 years (odd years) | Every 5 years |
| Expiration Date | November 1 of odd years | Based on registration date |
| CE Requirements | 30 hours every 2 years | 75 CPEUs every 5 years |
| Documentation | CE Submission Form + certificates | Online CPE portfolio |
Approved Continuing Education
Both DC and CDR accept various forms of continuing professional education:
- Formal Education: Graduate courses, certificate programs
- Professional Conferences: AND, DC Metro Dietetic Association events
- Webinars and Online Learning: CDR-approved providers
- Self-Study: Journal continuing education articles
- Professional Activities: Research, publication, presentations
Advanced Certifications and Specializations
Consider pursuing board certifications to advance your career:
- Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)
- Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD)
- Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP)
- Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR)
- Board Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition (CSG)
- Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO)
DC Nutrition Career Market and Opportunities
The District of Columbia presents unique career opportunities for registered dietitians, with diverse employment settings and competitive compensation. The capital city’s focus on public health, research institutions, and federal agencies creates a robust job market for nutrition professionals.
Salary and Compensation in DC
| Experience Level | DC Average Salary | National Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (25th percentile) | $50,890 | $48,710 | +$2,180 |
| Average (50th percentile) | $75,140 | $74,770 | +$370 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $105,810+ | $94,020 | +$11,790 |
Major Employers and Career Settings
DC registered dietitians work in diverse settings, including:
- Federal Agencies: USDA, NIH, CDC, Department of Veterans Affairs
- Healthcare Systems: MedStar Health, Children’s National, George Washington University Hospital
- Research Institutions: National Institutes of Health, USDA research centers
- Educational Institutions: Howard University, University of the District of Columbia
- Public Health Organizations: DC Department of Health, community health centers
- Private Practice: Nutrition counseling, corporate wellness
DC’s Impact on National Nutrition Policy
Working as an RD in DC provides unique opportunities to influence national nutrition policy. The 2010 Healthy Schools Act demonstrates DC’s leadership in nutrition innovation, requiring registered dietitians to implement school wellness programs and promoting membership in the Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s Healthy Schools Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in DC?
The complete process typically takes 4-5 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree (or 6-12 months if you choose a coordinated program that combines education and internship), plus time for the internship match process, CDR exam, and licensing application. Some students may take longer depending on prerequisite completion and internship matching.
Can I practice as a dietitian in DC without a license?
No, DC law requires professional licensure to practice dietetics or use protected titles like “dietitian,” “registered dietitian,” or “licensed dietitian.” Unlicensed practice is illegal and can result in penalties.
What’s the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist license in DC?
Both licenses allow a similar practice scope in DC. Dietitian licensure requires CDR registration, while nutritionist licensure has slightly different education requirements but uses the same CDR exam. Both require 900+ hours of supervised experience and similar educational backgrounds.
Are there dietetic internships located in Washington, DC?
Currently, no ACEND-accredited dietetic internships are located within DC proper. However, several excellent programs operate in nearby Maryland (Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, NIH) and Virginia, all within commuting distance of DC.
How competitive are dietetic internships in the DC area?
DC area internships are highly competitive due to their prestigious locations and unique opportunities. The NIH program, in particular, attracts top candidates nationally. Strong academics (3.5+ GPA), relevant experience, and compelling personal statements are essential for matching.
Can I transfer my RD license to DC from another state?
DC offers licensure by endorsement for RDs licensed in other jurisdictions. You must still meet DC’s requirements, submit an application, pay fees, and maintain current CDR registration. Some additional documentation may be required.
What are the most common career paths for RDs in DC?
Popular career paths include clinical dietetics in major hospital systems, public health nutrition with DC government, research positions at NIH, policy work with federal agencies, and private practice. Many RDs also work in corporate wellness for the numerous businesses headquartered in DC.
How much does the CDR exam cost, and where can I take it in DC?
The CDR examination costs $200 and is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers. DC has two testing locations: 901 New York Ave NW and 601 New Jersey Ave NW, with additional centers in nearby Bethesda, Alexandria, and Reston.
What continuing education is required to maintain my DC license?
DC requires 30 hours of continuing professional education every two years for license renewal. CDR registration requires 75 CPEUs every five years. Education must be from approved providers and properly documented for both requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Education First: Complete an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree from Howard University or the University of the District of Columbia
- Gain Experience: Apply for competitive dietetic internships in the DC metropolitan area (Maryland and Virginia programs)
- Pass the Exam: Take the CDR Registration Examination at local Pearson VUE centers ($200 fee)
- Obtain Licensure: Apply for the DC dietitian license with $229 fee and required documentation
- Maintain Credentials: Complete 30 CE hours every 2 years for DC license and 75 CPEUs every 5 years for CDR registration
- Career Advantages: DC offers competitive salaries ($75,140 average) and unique federal employment opportunities
- Total Timeline: 4-5 years from start to full licensure and practice
View how to become a nutritionist in the District of Columbia here.
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 district and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
