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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dietitian/Nutritionist in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
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 baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $84,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $69,740 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $65,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dietitian/Nutritionist in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.