How to Get a Registered Dietitian License in Minnesota
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Minnesota is a stable market with strong demand in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, making it an excellent place to start a career as a registered dietitian. Licensing in Minnesota is overseen by the Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice. 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 Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice) with a score of at least 70%.
At 1800 hours, Minnesota 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.
Minnesota 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 | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Governing Body | Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Registered Dietitian License in Minnesota
- 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 Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice. 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 Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice. Include CDR registration, transcripts, and the application fee of $100.
Time: 2-6 weeks Cost: $100 - 5
Begin Your Dietetics Career
Once licensed, you can practice as a Registered Dietitian in Minnesota. 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 Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Minnesota requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Minnesota accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 75 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .
How Minnesota Compares
Minnesota 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 Minnesota is around $53,000, compared to the national average of $53,740.
How Much Does a Registered Dietitian License Cost in Minnesota?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $52,500 - $53,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 75 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $100
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 Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice 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 Minnesota license: This includes $100 in application fees, $200 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $100 in renewal fees every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a registered dietitian license in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The total cost ranges from $52,500 to $53,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($100), and the exam fee ($200).
Can I get a Minnesota registered dietitian license with a criminal record?
The Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice 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 Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a registered dietitian in Minnesota?
No. Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice