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 candidate registered dietitian, candidate dietitian, or RD(c). Candidate dietitians must write the CDRE at the next available sitting.
A candidate dietitian is permitted to practice dietetics under the mentorship of a dietitian. Before beginning practice, candidate dietitians must provide NSRD with a completed Registered Dietitian Candidate Mentor Agreement Form.
NOTE: registration and licensure with the NSRD is required before an individual can engage in the practice of dietetics or use to the titles ‘dietitian’ and ‘nutritionist’ in Nova Scotia.
Four Step Application Process
Step 1 – Application
Complete the Online Application Form for a ‘conditional license’. You can submit your application for conditional licensure before you complete your practicum. Documents that accompany your application (e.g., transcripts, confirmation of practicum completion, verified ID, criminal record check with vulnerable sector check) can be submitted afterwards. Please see the Canadian Dietetic Registration Exam page for information on deadlines for the upcoming exam.
Step 2 – Supporting Documentation
Arrange to have supporting documentation sent to NSRD 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 NSRD with confirmation that degree requirements have been met.
(b) Practicum completion letter.
Step 3 – Payment of Fees
Please refer to the NSRD Fees page for applicable application and licensing fees. Please note, fees are non-refundable.
Once your full application has been received, allow for up to five business days for processing. Should your application be denied, you may appeal the Registration Committee’s decision within 30 days of written notice.
Email registration@nsrd.ca 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 licensed as a registered dietitian candidate, you will receive information from NSRD about how to pay the fee and schedule an appointment to write the CDRE. The fee to take the May 2026 exam is $600 (increasing to $750) If you wish to request an accommodation for the CDRE, including writing in-person, requests must be received by date to be determined March 18, 2026.
Beginning with the November 2026 sitting, the fee for the CDRE will increase from $600 to $750. This is first fee adjustment in five years and reflects the rising costs related to exam administration, technology, exam development and ensuring the exam remains high-quality, secure and sustainable over time. CDRE fees are set on a cost-recovery basis and are consistent with entry-to-practice exam fees across comparable health professions.
Click here for more information about the CDRE.
Click here to read registration policies.
In the case of failure of the CDRE, the candidate license expires immediately upon notification of exam results. According to NSRD policy, a candidate who has failed the exam may request renewal of their candidate license. A candidate license may be renewed once. A candidate shall have three opportunities in three years following practicum completion to challenge the qualifying exam.
