Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dietitian/nutritionist in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dietitian/Nutritionist in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$93,640 median (27% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Dietitian/Nutritionist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $93,640, Dietitian/Nutritionists in California earn 27% above the national median of $73,850. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$93,640Hourly estimate
$45.0227% above national median
Difference: +$19,790
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDietitian/Nutritionist Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Dietitian/Nutritionist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $93,640 |
| #2 | Oregon | $84,990 |
| #3 | Hawaii | $82,230 |
| #4 | Washington | $81,050 |
| #5 | Alaska | $81,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dietitian/Nutritionist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $93,640 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $84,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $69,740 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $65,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 205, Sacramento, CA, 95833
Phone: 9162637800
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dietitian/Nutritionist in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Dietitian/Nutritionist salary in California?
The median annual salary for Dietitian/Nutritionists in California is $93,640. Salaries range from $64,330 (10th percentile) to $127,460 (90th percentile).
How does the Dietitian/Nutritionist salary in California compare to the national average?
Dietitian/Nutritionists in California earn 27% above the national median of $73,850, with a state median of $93,640.
How many Dietitian/Nutritionists work in California?
California employs approximately 9,630 Dietitian/Nutritionists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dietitian/Nutritionist license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dietitian/Nutritionists in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Review agency details at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Dietitian/Nutritionist license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.