How to Get a Registered Dietitian License in New Mexico
Last updated: March 2, 2026
New Mexico is a unique market influenced by tourism, retirement communities, and Santa Fe's arts scene, making it an excellent place to start a career as a registered dietitian. Licensing in New Mexico is overseen by the New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board. The process requires 1800 hours of pre-license education and costs between $51,500 and $52,500 in total. You'll need to pass the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians (administered by New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board) with a score of at least 70%.
At 1800 hours, New Mexico has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 1800 hours. Budget between $51,500 and $52,500 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.
New Mexico 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 | $200 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Governing Body | New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Registered Dietitian License in New Mexico
- 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 New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board. 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 New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board. Include CDR registration, transcripts, and the application fee of $200.
Time: 2-6 weeks Cost: $200 - 5
Begin Your Dietetics Career
Once licensed, you can practice as a Registered Dietitian in New Mexico. 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 New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: New Mexico requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: New Mexico 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 New Mexico Compares
New Mexico 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 New Mexico is around $52,000, compared to the national average of $53,740. New Mexico's 1-year renewal cycle is shorter than the national average of 2.1 years.
How Much Does a Registered Dietitian License Cost in New Mexico?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $51,500 - $52,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 1 years
- Continuing Education: 75 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $200
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 New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board 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 $52,500 for your New Mexico license: This includes $200 in application fees, $200 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $200 in renewal fees every 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a registered dietitian license in New Mexico?
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 New Mexico?
The total cost ranges from $51,500 to $52,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($200), and the exam fee ($200).
Can I get a New Mexico registered dietitian license with a criminal record?
The New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board 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 New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a registered dietitian in New Mexico?
No. New Mexico 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 New Mexico?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board