How to Become a Registered Dietitian in Nevada 2025

Nevada requires registered dietitians to hold state licensure to practice legally. If you’re interested in pursuing this rewarding healthcare career in the Silver State, you’re in the right place. Understanding the difference between dietitians and nutritionists is an important first step, as these terms carry distinct legal and professional meanings in Nevada. This comprehensive guide outlines the exact steps you need to follow to become a licensed registered dietitian in Nevada, from selecting an accredited educational program to maintaining your credentials.

Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation best describes you:

1. Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Nevada
2. Apply for Your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Nevada
3. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
4. Apply for State Licensure as a Dietitian in Nevada
5. Maintain Your Registration and Nevada Dietitian License

Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Nevada

The foundation of your registered dietitian career begins with earning a bachelor’s degree or higher from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Nevada offers two pathways: Coordinated Programs (CP), which integrate both coursework and supervised practice experience, and Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD), which provide the academic coursework and must be followed by a separate dietetic internship.

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.

ACEND-Accredited Programs in Nevada:

Nevada has two universities offering ACEND-accredited programs in nutrition and dietetics:

Note: Based on the most recent available ACEND accreditation data, Nevada does not have Coordinated Programs (CP). Students must complete a DPD program followed by a separate dietetic internship. Verify the current program’s availability and accreditation status directly with ACEND, as program offerings are subject to change.

Your coursework will cover essential topics including human nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, food science, biochemistry, physiology, and foodservice management. Most programs require completion of specific prerequisite courses in chemistry, biology, and statistics before admission to the dietetics specialization.

Apply for Your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Nevada

After completing your ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree, you must apply for and complete a supervised dietetic internship program. These intensive programs require a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practice experience and are highly competitive. Most dietetic internships utilize a computerized matching system through D&D Digital, similar to the one used for medical residency matching.

ACEND-Accredited Dietetic Internships in Nevada:

Application Timeline: Most dietetic internship programs accept applications through D&D Digital’s centralized system. The priority application deadline is typically in mid-February, with match results announced in early April. Plan to apply during your final semester of undergraduate coursework or after graduation. Contact programs directly for the most current application deadlines and requirements.

During your internship, you’ll gain hands-on experience in clinical nutrition, foodservice management, and community nutrition settings. Nevada programs often include rotations at major healthcare facilities in Las Vegas and Reno, providing exposure to diverse patient populations and clinical specialties.

Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination

Upon completing your ACEND-accredited dietetic internship, you become eligible to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam (CDR exam). Your DI program director will verify your eligibility to the Commission on Dietetic Registration, and you’ll receive registration instructions via email from Pearson VUE, the exam administrator.

CDR Exam Details:

• Format: Computer-based exam with 125 scored questions plus 25 unscored pretest questions
• Duration: 3 hours
• Registration Fee: $200 (subject to change, verify current fee with CDR)
• Passing Score: 25 out of 50 scaled score
• Results: Available immediately upon test completion

Testing Locations in Nevada:

Note: Testing center locations and addresses are subject to change. Always verify your testing site location, address, and hours through your Pearson VUE exam confirmation email before your scheduled exam date.

Exam Preparation Resources: The Commission on Dietetic Registration offers official preparation materials, including the Comprehensive Study Outline and Study Guide and the Registration Examination for Dietitians Handbook. Many candidates also use practice exams, study groups, and review courses to prepare for the comprehensive exam.

Retake Policy: If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after a 45-day waiting period. Contact the CDR at (312) 899-4859 for authorization to reschedule.

Apply for State Licensure as a Dietitian in Nevada

Nevada law requires all practicing dietitians to hold state licensure through the Division of Public and Behavioral Health. You can only use the title “dietitian” or “licensed dietitian” after receiving your Nevada license. This legal protection ensures that only qualified professionals provide medical nutrition therapy and dietetic services to Nevada residents.

Nevada Dietitian License Requirements:

• Completion of an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree or higher
• Completion of an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship (1,200+ hours)
• Passing score on the CDR examination
• Current RD credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration
• Criminal background check with fingerprinting
• Initial license application fee

License Fees (subject to change): The initial application fee is $100, with a $200 renewal fee every two years. Background checks and fingerprinting carry additional fees. Verify current fees through the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health licensing portal, as state fees may be updated periodically.

Application Process: Apply online through the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health licensing portal. You’ll need to create an account, complete the application form, upload required documentation (including your CDR credential card), and pay the application fee. The criminal background check and fingerprinting are processed separately and carry an additional fee.

Processing Time: Most Nevada dietitian license applications are processed within 4-6 weeks of submission, provided all documentation is complete and accurate. You’ll receive notification via email when your license is approved.

Maintain Your Registration and Nevada Dietitian License

Maintaining your credentials requires ongoing effort to stay current with the latest developments in nutrition science and professional standards. You must maintain both your CDR registration (a national credential) and your Nevada state license (a legal requirement to practice).

Nevada State License Renewal:

• Renewal Period: Every 2 years from the date of issuance
• Renewal Fee: $200 (subject to change, verify current fee)
• Continuing Education: Nevada does not currently require continuing education for state license renewal
• Process: You’ll receive renewal instructions via email before your license expires

CDR Registration Renewal:

• Renewal Period: Every 5 years
• Continuing Education Requirement: 75 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs)
• Portfolio Requirement: Maintain documentation through the CDR Professional Development Portfolio (PDP)
• Self-Assessment: Complete required self-assessment activities

Find qualifying continuing education opportunities through the CDR’s online CPE database. Nevada dietitians have access to numerous local and online continuing education programs, including offerings from the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, Abbott Nutrition, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Specialty Certifications: Once established in your career, consider pursuing advanced certifications in specialized areas such as pediatric nutrition, renal nutrition, oncology nutrition, sports dietetics, or diabetes education. These credentials demonstrate expertise and can lead to career advancement opportunities.

Nevada Dietitian Salary and Job Market

As of the most recent available data, there are approximately 700-800 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) practicing in Nevada, according to historical CDR and BLS estimates. Official current counts are not publicly confirmed. Nevada’s growing population and increasing focus on preventive healthcare create steady demand for qualified nutrition professionals.

Nevada Dietitian Salary Data (2024):

Las Vegas Metro Comparison: The Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise metropolitan area reported an average dietitian salary of $73,520 in 2024, closely aligned with the statewide average. This compares favorably to the national average of $74,770 for dietitians and nutritionists.

Top Employers for Nevada Dietitians:

• University Medical Center of Southern Nevada (Las Vegas)
• Renown Health (Reno)
• Dignity Health – St. Rose Dominican Hospitals
• Northern Nevada Medical Center
• Clark County School District (school nutrition programs)
• Washoe County School District
• Southern Nevada Health District
• Private practice and consulting
• Long-term care facilities and senior living communities

Alternative Path: If you’re interested in a related career with less stringent requirements, learn how to become a nutritionist in Nevada. While Nevada doesn’t license nutritionists, you can pursue professional certifications like the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) credential to establish credibility and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The complete pathway typically takes 4 to 5 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program, 7-12 months for a dietetic internship (most Nevada programs are 7 months), and 2-3 months for exam preparation and state licensing. Some students complete graduate-level coordinated programs that integrate education and internship, which may extend the timeline to 5-6 years but result in a master’s degree.

Is a license required to practice as an RD in Nevada?

Yes, Nevada law requires all practicing dietitians to hold state licensure through the Division of Public and Behavioral Health. You cannot legally use the title “dietitian” or “licensed dietitian” or provide medical nutrition therapy services without a Nevada dietitian license. This protects public health by ensuring only qualified professionals practice dietetics.

Can I transfer my RD license from another state to Nevada?

Nevada recognizes credentials from other states through licensure by endorsement. If you hold an active RD license in another state, you can apply for Nevada licensure by submitting proof of your current license, CDR credential, and completing Nevada’s application process, including the background check. You don’t need to retake the CDR exam, but you must meet all Nevada-specific requirements.

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

In Nevada, the title “dietitian” is a legally protected title that requires state licensure, ACEND-accredited education, supervised practice, and passing the CDR exam. “Nutritionist” is not a protected title in Nevada, meaning anyone can use it regardless of education or credentials. Only licensed dietitians can provide medical nutrition therapy, work in clinical settings, and use insurance reimbursement for nutrition services.

How much does the CDR exam cost?

The CDR registration exam costs $200. This fee covers one exam attempt. If you need to retake the exam, you’ll pay another $200 registration fee after the mandatory 45-day waiting period. Budget additional costs for exam preparation materials, which can range from $50 to $300, depending on which study resources you choose. Verify current exam fees with the Commission on Dietetic Registration, as costs are subject to change.

Are there continuing education requirements for Nevada dietitians?

Nevada does not currently require continuing education for the renewal of state licenses. Your state license renews every 2 years with payment of the renewal fee. However, your CDR registration (required to maintain your state license) does require 75 CPEUs every 5 years, documented through the Professional Development Portfolio system.

Can I complete my dietetic internship out of state and still get licensed in Nevada?

Yes, as long as your dietetic internship is ACEND-accredited, it doesn’t matter which state you complete it in. Many Nevada residents complete internships in California, Arizona, or other states because of the limited in-state programs available. Your ACEND-accredited education and supervised practice hours are recognized nationwide, and you can apply for Nevada licensure after passing the CDR exam regardless of where you completed your training.

Key Takeaways

• Nevada requires state licensure for all practicing dietitians through the Division of Public and Behavioral Health
• Education pathway includes an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics from programs at UNLV or UNR
• Supervised practice requires completion of a 1,200-hour dietetic internship, with 7-month programs available in Las Vegas and Reno
• National credential requires passing the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam with a score of 25/50 or higher
• Competitive salaries averaging $73,930 annually in Nevada, with entry-level positions starting around $62,990
• License maintenance involves renewing your Nevada license every 2 years and CDR registration every 5 years (75 CPEUs required)

Ready to Start Your Registered Dietitian Journey in Nevada?

Explore ACEND-accredited nutrition and dietetics programs at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the University of Nevada, Reno. Take the first step toward your rewarding career in clinical nutrition, community health, or food service management.

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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