After successfully completing current eligibility requirements and being validated by CDR, individuals are eligible to take the registration examination for dietitians. Eligible candidates are emailed information on scheduling their examination by CDR’s testing vendor Pearson. Candidates are required to read the RD Handbook for Candidates.

The examination is administered year-round at over two hundred fifty (250) Pearson test centers. For test center locations near you, visit the Pearson VUE website, and click Find A Test Center in the column on the right.  Test appointment availability varies by test center and is determined at the time of scheduling. For detailed information on examination format, policies and procedures, please review the Examination FAQ. 

As outlined in the Components of a Certification Testing Program (Flowchart), test specifications are updated every five years. The current Registration Examination for Dietitians Test Specifications (Content Outline) became effective January 1, 2022.

Recent Changes to the RD Exam

Exam Attempt Limit

• In May 2026, the CDR board established a lifetime limit of eight (8) attempts for eligible candidates attempting to pass the Registered Dietitian (RD) or Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) exams. This policy only applies to individuals who establish exam eligibility on or after January 1, 2027. This decision reflects CDR's commitment to maintaining the integrity and validity of its credentialing programs, ensuring that exam results continue to serve as a meaningful measure of entry-level competence. Ensuring competency to practice at entry level furthers CDR’ s mission to protect the public.

CDR's Test Bundle Voucher

• In 2024, CDR introduced the Test Bundle Voucher. This optional program provides candidates with a second attempt to pass their RD exam at a discounted rate, should they have an unsuccessful first attempt. By investing in the Test Bundle, candidates can gain peace of mind, financial savings, and an opportunity to overcome test anxiety. For just $350 candidates receive a voucher valid for two test attempts. This option can provide the support that some candidates need on the journey to becoming an RD and provide the reassurance to succeed. For more information on CDR’s Test Bundle Voucher, please visit our website.