Understanding the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
The credentialing arm of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). It is a crucial, independent non-profit organization responsible for setting and maintaining the professional standards for registered dietitians (RDs), registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), and nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered (NDTRs) in the United States. The CDR's role is to protect the public by ensuring that all credentialed practitioners meet a certain level of education, competency, and ongoing professional development.
The Core Mission and Function of the CDR
While the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals, focused on advancing the profession through advocacy, research, and education, the CDR's function is more specific. The CDR focuses squarely on the certification process. Its core responsibilities include:
- Administering Examinations: Developing and managing the national examinations that candidates must pass to earn the RDN and NDTR credentials.
- Enforcing Standards: Ensuring that all credentialed individuals adhere to the ethical standards and professional requirements set by the organization.
- Managing Continuing Education: Overseeing the Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) process, which requires credentialed practitioners to complete a specified number of continuing professional education units (CPEUs) to maintain their credentials.
- Protecting Titles: Working to ensure that only qualified individuals can use the legally protected titles of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR).
The Path to Becoming a Credentialed Practitioner
The CDR certification process involves a series of rigorous steps that ensure candidates are well-prepared for professional practice. This process is often a requirement for state licensure. The general pathway includes:
- Academic Requirements: Candidates must complete a graduate degree from an accredited university, which includes coursework accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
- Supervised Practice: Following academic coursework, candidates must complete a supervised practice program (dietetic internship) to gain hands-on experience in various settings.
- National Exam: Passing the national certification examination administered by the CDR.
- State Licensure (if applicable): Obtaining a state license to practice, as required by the laws of the specific state. This is separate from CDR certification but often relies on it.
Maintaining Professional Competency
CDR certification is not a one-time achievement. To ensure practitioners remain current with evolving scientific knowledge and professional standards, the CDR requires ongoing professional development through the PDP process. This involves:
- Self-Assessment: RDNs and NDTRs evaluate their current knowledge and skills.
- Goal Setting: They create a professional development plan with specific learning goals.
- Activities: They engage in approved continuing education activities to earn CPEUs.
- Documentation: All CPEUs are documented and reported to the CDR over a five-year cycle.
CDR Certification vs. State Licensure
It is important to understand the distinction between the CDR's certification and state-level licensure. While they often go hand-in-hand, they serve different purposes.
Comparison of CDR Certification and State Licensure
| Feature | CDR Certification | State Licensure |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Body | The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), a national non-profit. | A state-specific licensing board or regulatory agency. |
| Purpose | To certify that a practitioner has met national standards of education, experience, and competence. | To grant legal permission to practice within a specific state, often based on meeting CDR certification and other state-specific criteria. |
| Scope | National recognition. Allows use of protected titles (RDN, NDTR) nationally. | Confines practice to a specific state or jurisdiction. |
| Requirements | Passing the CDR exam and meeting academic/supervised practice criteria. | Varies by state but commonly requires CDR certification plus other application procedures. |
The Relationship Between AND and CDR
While the CDR is the credentialing arm, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the parent organization and professional association. The Academy focuses on advocating for the profession, public education, research, and member services. The CDR, on the other hand, maintains its independence to prevent any conflict of interest in its role as a certifying body. This separation ensures the integrity and credibility of the credentialing process.
Conclusion: The Indispensable Role of the CDR
In summary, the Commission on Dietetic Registration is the indispensable credentialing arm of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It is the gatekeeper of professional standards, ensuring that those who hold the RDN and NDTR credentials are appropriately qualified and committed to lifelong learning. Through its rigorous examination and continuing education programs, the CDR plays a vital role in protecting public health and solidifying the credibility of nutrition and dietetics practitioners.
For more information about the CDR, visit their official website. Commission on Dietetic Registration
