What is an RD?
A Registered Dietitian is a food and nutrition expert who has met the minimum academic requirements to qualify for the credential "RD". In addition to RD credentialing many states have regulatory laws for dietitians and nutrition practioners. State requirements frequently are met through the same education and training required to become an RD.
Registered dietitians must meet the following criteria to earn the RD credential:
- Receive a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited university or college and course work approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly known as the American Dietetic Association).
- Complete a CADE-accredited supervised practice program at a health care facility, community agency or a foodservice corporation or combined with undergraduate or graduate studies. Typically, a practice program will run 6-12 months in length.
- Pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration
- Complete continuing professional education requirements to maintain registration
This information was adapted from www.Eatright.org the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Registered Dietitian information sheet. 
