What defines a Registered Dietitian?

• A. A licensed physician
• B. A person who cooks meals
• C. One who has fulfilled the eligibility requirement of the Commission of Dietetic Registration
• D. A person with a bachelor in any field

Answer: (C)

A Registered Dietitian is someone who has met the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s eligibility requirements and earned the credential by passing the national examination. This credentialing process guarantees that the person has completed an ACEND-accredited nutrition/dietetics program, completed supervised practice, and demonstrated competency on the certification exam. Because of this standardized path, RDs are qualified to work in clinical, community, and foodservice settings and must engage in ongoing education to maintain their certification. Being a licensed physician, simply cooking meals, or holding a bachelor’s degree in any field does not confer the RD credential.