The RD (Registered Dietitian) and DTR (Dietetic Technician, Registered) are both credentials from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), but they differ significantly in education, scope, and career opportunities.

What Is the RD?

The RD is the premier credential for nutrition professionals. Registered Dietitians provide medical nutrition therapy, manage nutrition programs, conduct research, and counsel patients on dietary needs.

• •Certifying Body: CDR (Commission on Dietetic Registration)
• •Questions: 125-145 (computer-adaptive)
• •Time Limit: 2.5 hours
• •Cost: $225
• •Education: Master’s degree (effective January 2024) from ACEND-accredited program + supervised practice

What Is the DTR?

The DTR credential supports nutrition care under the supervision of an RD. Dietetic Technicians assist with menu planning, nutrition screening, food service management, and patient education.

• •Certifying Body: CDR
• •Questions: 125-145 (computer-adaptive)
• •Time Limit: 2.5 hours
• •Cost: $225
• •Education: Associate’s degree from ACEND-accredited program + supervised practice

Key Differences

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a DTR become an RD?

Yes. DTRs can pursue the RD credential by completing a master’s degree and the required supervised practice hours, then passing the RD exam.

Is the RD exam harder than the DTR exam?

Both exams use the same computer-adaptive format and cover similar content areas. However, the RD exam expects a higher level of knowledge consistent with graduate-level education. The pass rate for RD is typically 70-80% first-time, while DTR is 65-75%.

Do I need to be an RD to provide nutrition counseling?

In most states, the RD credential (or state licensure/certification) is required to provide medical nutrition therapy. Some states allow other qualified professionals to provide general nutrition education.