Dietetic Technician, Registered - Key Considerations

Entry-level DTR - first 3 years.
The Dietetic Technician Registered works under the supervision of a RD when conducting medical nutrition therapy as a part of the NCP. In the aspects of practice that do not involve MNT, the Dietetic Technician, Registered does not necessarily work under the supervision of the RD (ADA BOD, 2003).

Only Maine recognizes the DTR as a licensed practitioner. In states with either licensure or certification, there generally is specific reference in the dietitian licensing laws to exempt DTRs and others who meet the definition of dietetic technician, as long as they are under the supervision of a RD or licensed dietitian. A more specific reference to the relationship occurs, for example, in California's new law, which is explicit that DTRs "work under the supervision of registered dietitians when providing MNT."

(Excerpt - The Scope of Dietetics Framework - Draft August 2004)