Candidate License

A candidate dietitian has met all registration requirements with the exception of the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE), and may practice as a dietitian using the title registered dietitian (candidate) or RD(c). Candidate dietitians write the CDRE at the next available sitting. The application for candidate licensure is also the application to write the CDRE. There is not a separate CDRE application form.  

A registered dietitian candidate is permitted to practice dietetics under the mentorship of a dietitian. Before beginning practice, candidate dietitians must provide NSCDN with proof of professional liablity insurance and a completed Registered Dietitian Candidate Mentor Agreement Form.

Four Step Application Process

Step 1 - Application 

Complete the Online Application Form. If you wish to take the May 2024 exam, submit your application for candidate licensure to NSCDN by March 30. You can submit your application for candidate licensure before you complete your practicum. Documents that accompany your application (e.g., transcripts, confirmation of practicum completion) can be submitted afterwards (no later than April 29). Click HERE to for information about uploading a verified identification with your online application.

Step 2 - Supporting Documentation

Arrange to have supporting documentation sent to NSCDN directly from the university/program.  Email is acceptable.
(a) University transcript -  If your transcript does not state that you have met degree requirements, contact the registrar's office to provide NSCDN with confirmation that degree requirements have been met. 
(b) Verification of practicum completion 

Step 3 - Payment of Fees

Applicants writing the May 2024 exam: $551 = $85 application fee + $466 registration fee 

Candidate Licensure is valid until one of the following conditions occurs:  the candidate receives an active-practice licence or the candidate fails the exam. The $466 payment is for registration effective until March 31, 2025.

Note: College fees are increasing on December 1, 2023. The fee for applicants writing the May 2024 exam will be $830 ($130 application fee + $700 registration fee). 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Once your full application has been received, allow for up to five business days for processing. Should your application to NSCDN be denied, you may appeal the Registration Committee’s decision within 30 days of written notice. 

Email the NSCDN's Registration Coordinator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions or to schedule a virtual or telephone appointment. You can expect a reply within three business days. 

Step 4 - Schedule Appointment to take the CDRE

Once registered as a candidate dietitian, you will receive information from NSCDN about how to pay the fee and schedule an appointment to write the CDRE. The CDRE fee is $600 to take the May 2024 exam. If you wish to request an accommodation for the CDRE, including writing in-person, requests must be received by March 28, 2024. 

Click HERE for more information about the CDRE. 

Click HERE to read registration policies.

According to NSCDN bylaws, a candidate who has failed the exam may request reinstatement of their candidate license. A candidate license may be reinstated once for a period of up to one year from the date the candidate license originally took effect. A candidate shall have three opportunities in four years to challenge the qualifying exam. If the first two attempts result in failures, proof of upgrading will be required to become eligible to challenge the exam for the third and final time.