How to Get a Registered Dietitian License in Kentucky
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Kentucky is an affordable market with opportunities in Louisville, Lexington, and rural communities, making it an excellent place to start a career as a registered dietitian. Licensing in Kentucky is overseen by the Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists. The process requires 1800 hours of pre-license education and costs between $52,500 and $53,500 in total. You'll need to pass the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians (administered by Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists) with a score of at least 70%.
At 1800 hours, Kentucky has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 1800 hours. Budget between $52,500 and $53,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring registered dietitians complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
Kentucky Registered Dietitian License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 1800 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | No |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Governing Body | Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Registered Dietitian License in Kentucky
- 1
Earn a Master's Degree in Nutrition/Dietetics
Complete a master's degree from an ACEND-accredited program. As of 2024, a master's degree is required for RD eligibility.
Time: 5-6 years (bachelor's + master's) Cost: $350 - 2
Complete a Supervised Practice Program
Complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised practice (dietetic internship) through an ACEND-accredited program. Internships are competitive — apply through the DICAS matching system.
Time: 8-24 months - 3
Pass the CDR Registration Exam
Register and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam administered by Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists. The exam covers food science, nutrition therapy, management, and community nutrition. The exam fee is $200.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $200 - 4
Apply for State Licensure
Submit your application to the Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists. Include CDR registration, transcripts, and the application fee of $50.
Time: 2-6 weeks Cost: $50 - 5
Begin Your Dietetics Career
Once licensed, you can practice as a Registered Dietitian in Kentucky. RDs work in hospitals, clinics, private practice, food service management, and public health.
Time: Immediate once licensed
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians is administered by Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Online application available: Kentucky accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 75 hours of continuing education every 1 year. .
How Kentucky Compares
Kentucky requires 1800 hours of pre-license education for registered dietitians. This is close to the national average of 1800 hours. The average total cost in Kentucky is around $53,000, compared to the national average of $53,740. Kentucky's 1-year renewal cycle is shorter than the national average of 2.1 years.
How Much Does a Registered Dietitian License Cost in Kentucky?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $52,500 - $53,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 1 years
- Continuing Education: 75 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $50
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 1800 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Apply to multiple dietetic internships: Dietetic internships are highly competitive (~50% match rate). Apply to 5-8 programs through DICAS and be flexible on location. Combined master's/internship programs (coordinated programs) guarantee placement but are harder to get into.
- Specialize for higher earning potential: RDs specializing in renal nutrition, oncology, diabetes education, or sports nutrition earn 20-40% more. Board certifications (CSR, CSO, CSSD, CDCES) demonstrate expertise and open doors to advanced roles.
- Budget approximately $53,500 for your Kentucky license: This includes $50 in application fees, $200 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $50 in renewal fees every 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a registered dietitian license in Kentucky?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (1800 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a registered dietitian license in Kentucky?
The total cost ranges from $52,500 to $53,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($50), and the exam fee ($200).
Can I get a Kentucky registered dietitian license with a criminal record?
The Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a registered dietitian in Kentucky?
No. Kentucky does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 1800 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Kentucky?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification for Dietitians and Nutritionists website for a list of approved providers.