2026 Steps to Become a Registered Dietitian in Hawaii

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Hawaii faces rising health challenges, with 25% of adults classified as obese, and increasing demand for registered dietitians. Many aspiring professionals find the career path unclear, yet the state’s healthcare sector projects 12% job growth for dietitians over the next decade. This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines education, accreditation, and licensure steps for a successful dietitian career.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Registered Dietitian in Hawaii

A bachelor’s degree in dietetics or nutrition from an accredited program with supervised practice is required to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii.
Completion of 900–1,000 supervised practice hours in clinical, community, or foodservice settings is needed to qualify for the RDN exam.
After passing the exam, dietitians maintain licensure through renewal, continuing education, and can specialize in clinical, community, public health, or private practice roles.

What degree is required to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii?
How many supervised practice hours are needed to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii?
What are the eligibility requirements for the dietetic registration exam in Hawaii?
How can you get a license after passing the dietetic registration exam in Hawaii?
What types of dietitian specializations can you pursue in Hawaii?
What is the average salary of a registered dietitian in Hawaii?
What do you need to keep your dietitian registration active in Hawaii?
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii?
Are there advanced professional development opportunities for registered dietitians in Hawaii?
Can international students qualify to become registered dietitians in Hawaii?
What career paths can registered dietitians pursue in Hawaii?
How does cultural diversity impact registered dietitian practice in Hawaii?

What degree is required to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii?

Becoming a registered dietitian in Hawaii requires completing accredited academic programs that provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Meeting these requirements ensures eligibility for professional registration and licensure. Below are the key degree requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree in Dietetics: Candidates must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. This degree covers core nutritional sciences and dietetics principles, providing a strong foundation for advanced study and professional practice.
Accredited Nutrition Programs: Completion of an accredited nutrition program in Hawaii is required. These programs offer a comprehensive curriculum and supervised practical experiences essential for developing applied skills.
Supervised Practice Experience: Accredited programs include hands-on training in clinical, community, and foodservice settings. This practical experience is critical for preparing candidates to meet professional competency standards.
Registration Eligibility: Graduates from accredited programs become eligible to sit for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam, a key credential required for practicing as a registered dietitian in Hawaii.

Admission to these programs usually requires a minimum undergraduate GPA, reflecting the competitive nature of the field. The integration of coursework with practicum opportunities equips students with applied skills vital for clinical and community nutrition roles.

Prospective dietitians should also consider career outlook data, noting that nutrition professionals often benefit from employment in health-related fields with competitive salaries, comparable to other specialized medical professions such as those featured in highest paying medical jobs 2025.

How many supervised practice hours are needed to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii?

Becoming a registered dietitian in Hawaii requires completing supervised practice hours that meet both state and national standards. These hours provide practical experience across clinical, community, and foodservice settings. Below are the key points regarding supervised practice hours in Hawaii:

Alignment with ACEND Standards: Hawaii’s ACEND-accredited program at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa requires at least 1,000 hours, consistent with national standards.
Hawaii State Law Minimum: State statutes mandate a minimum of 900 documented supervised practice hours approved by the accrediting body.
Out-of-State or Online Programs: ACEND-accredited internships from other states or online programs are accepted if hours meet or exceed minimum requirements and are properly documented.
State-Specific Requirements: Hawaii does not impose additional supervised practice hours beyond the state minimum.
Program Completion Statistics: Over 80% of students at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa complete supervised practice within three years, with 90% reporting adequate preparation.
Cultural and Community Emphasis: Programs include experiences relevant to Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities, enhancing professional competencies without increasing hour requirements.
Licensure Preparation: Completion of supervised practice hours ensures eligibility for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam and state licensure.

What are the eligibility requirements for the dietetic registration exam in Hawaii?

To sit for the dietetic registration exam in Hawaii, candidates must meet specific educational and program requirements. These standards ensure applicants are prepared to practice safely and competently in the state.

Below are the key requirements:

Minimum Educational Qualification: Candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree in human nutrition, dietetics, food and nutrition, or food systems management, as required by Hawaii law. Nationally, a graduate degree is required by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) as of 2024, but Hawaii maintains the bachelor’s degree minimum for state licensure.
Nutrition Coursework: Degree programs must include courses in nutrition, human physiology, biochemistry, behavioral and social sciences, and nine semester credits in food science and food preparation to provide comprehensive foundational knowledge.
ACEND-Accredited Program Completion: Candidates must complete an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), Coordinated Program (CP), or Graduate Program (GP). The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers an in-state ACEND-accredited DPD, but out-of-state or online ACEND programs are accepted.
Submission of Eligibility to CDR: After completing all educational and supervised practice requirements, the program director must submit eligibility documentation electronically to the CDR, enabling exam registration.
Registration and Passing the National Exam: Candidates must register for and pass the Registration Examination for Dietitians administered by the CDR to qualify for licensure.
State-Specific Licensure Requirements: Hawaii requires all practicing dietitians to hold state licensure, maintain continuing education, and submit equivalency documentation if holding a foreign degree.

Prospective dietitians should consider Hawaii’s specific rules alongside national standards when planning their education and career path. For those interested in related healthcare roles, exploring the nutrition nurse practitioner salary may provide valuable insight into alternative nutrition-focused professions.

How can you get a license after passing the dietetic registration exam in Hawaii?

After passing the dietetic registration exam, candidates must complete several steps to secure licensure in Hawaii. These steps ensure compliance with state and national standards for professional practice.

Below are the key steps:

Prepare Application Materials: Gather all academic transcripts, proof of supervised practice, and documentation of passing the CDR exam to support your licensure application.
Complete State Application: Submit the official licensure form to Hawaii’s state board along with the required fee, following Hawaii Revised Statute §448B-5.
Provide Proof of Degree and Training: Include verification of your accredited degree and at least 900 hours of ACEND-approved supervised practice to meet educational requirements.
Submit CDR Exam Results: Attach official documentation confirming successful completion of the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam.
Report Disciplinary Actions: Disclose any past disciplinary actions related to dietetics from any jurisdiction as required by state law.
Await Application Review: The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs evaluates your submission for completeness and compliance; processing times may vary.
Receive State License: Upon approval, you will be issued a Hawaii dietitian license with official documentation.
Maintain Registration and License: Renew your license every three years and maintain CDR registration, completing 75 Continuing Professional Education Units every five years.

What types of dietitian specializations can you pursue in Hawaii?

Registered dietitians in Hawaii can specialize in diverse areas that reflect the state’s unique population and healthcare needs. These roles allow professionals to focus on targeted populations or settings, enhancing their expertise and career opportunities.

Below are the key dietitian specializations available in Hawaii:

Clinical Dietitian: Works in healthcare facilities providing medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for chronic and acute conditions, as authorized by Hawaii licensure.
Community Dietitian: Develops nutrition programs for groups and communities, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion for multicultural populations.
Food Service Management Dietitian: Oversees meal planning, food safety, and nutrition standards in schools, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
Pediatric Dietitian: Specializes in nutrition for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing growth and childhood obesity concerns.
Sports Dietitian: Works with athletes to optimize performance and recovery, reflecting Hawaii’s active sports culture.
Geriatric Dietitian: Focuses on the nutritional needs of older adults, addressing age-related health issues in Hawaii’s aging population.
Research Dietitian: Conducts nutrition studies in academic and public health settings, examining local dietary patterns.
Private Practice/Consulting Dietitian: Provides individualized nutrition counseling and education, often specializing in weight management or disease-specific nutrition.
Public Health Dietitian: Develops statewide nutrition policies and programs, collaborating with government agencies to address diabetes, food insecurity, and other public health challenges.

23% of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists hold one or more specialty certifications.

What is the average salary of a registered dietitian in Hawaii?

Registered dietitians in Hawaii earn salaries influenced by location, experience, and work setting. Below are key factors affecting compensation:

Average Annual Salary: Dietitians in Hawaii earn between $76,920 and $78,961 per year, with hourly wages from $37.31 to $37.96.
Comparison to National Average: Hawaii salaries are about 3% above the national average, reflecting a modest pay premium.
Location Variations: Urban areas such as Honolulu earn slightly less than the statewide average, at around $73,762 annually.
Experience and Education: Entry-level dietitians start near $58,000, while specialized or highly experienced professionals can reach the top of the salary range.
Work Setting Influence: Hospital and clinical positions generally offer higher pay than schools or public health roles.
Demand and Market Trends: Hawaii’s smaller job market limits rapid salary growth, though additional certifications and supervisory roles can enhance earning potential over time.

What do you need to keep your dietitian registration active in Hawaii?

Maintaining an active dietitian registration in Hawaii ensures legal compliance and professional credibility. Staying current allows dietitians to use the Licensed Dietitian (LD) title and maintain eligibility for insurance reimbursements.

Below are the key requirements:

License Renewal Frequency: Licenses must be renewed every three years to retain legal authorization to practice in Hawaii.
Continuing Professional Education (CPE): Complete 75 CPE units every five years through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) to maintain current knowledge and skills.
Renewal Application: Submit the renewal form to the Hawaii Department of Health at least 30 days before the license expires, including all required fees.
Fees: Renewal fees vary. Practitioners should verify current costs directly with the Hawaii Department of Health.
National Credential Maintenance: Maintain active RD or RDN status in good standing with the Commission on Dietetic Registration to support professional credibility.
Reporting Disciplinary Actions: Disclose any past disciplinary actions on the renewal application to ensure transparency and compliance.
Updated Contact Information: Keep current contact details with the Department of Health to receive renewal notifications and avoid lapses.

How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii?

Becoming a registered dietitian in Hawaii generally requires five to seven years, encompassing undergraduate education, supervised practice, and successful completion of the national registration exam. This timeline reflects the comprehensive academic and practical preparation necessary to ensure candidates are fully equipped for professional practice. Individual circumstances, such as program format or pacing, may result in slight variations in overall duration.

Aspiring dietitians typically complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, followed by supervised practice, which can range from six months to two years depending on the program type. Exam preparation and additional requirements contribute to the overall timeline. Accelerated programs, combined degree-internship tracks, part-time enrollment, or transferred credits can influence how quickly candidates achieve credentialing and licensure in Hawaii.

Prospective students may also explore options like an online dietetics degree to optimize their study plan. Staying informed of current requirements helps ensure an efficient progression through the credentialing process.

The chart below from the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics shares the primary work settings of registered dietitians and nutritionists.

Are there advanced professional development opportunities for registered dietitians in Hawaii?

Registered dietitians in Hawaii can pursue enhanced career growth through targeted continuing education, specialized certifications, and participation in interdisciplinary collaborations. Professional organizations and academic institutions frequently host workshops, seminars, and networking events that provide updated insights into emerging nutritional research and best practices. Moreover, professionals may broaden their expertise by engaging in allied health training—exploring pathways such as learning how to become a medical assistant in Hawaii can complement dietetic practice and foster a more versatile skill set. This proactive approach to career development ensures sustained competitiveness and innovation in Hawaii’s dynamic healthcare sector.

Can international students qualify to become registered dietitians in Hawaii?

International students can pursue registration as dietitians in Hawaii by meeting national and state-specific requirements. These steps ensure foreign education and training align with U.S. professional standards.

Below are the key requirements:

Foreign Degree Evaluation: Academic credentials must be reviewed by an authorized agency to confirm equivalency to a U.S. degree from a regionally accredited institution, verifying completion of core dietetics coursework such as nutrition, human physiology, and food science.
Verification Statement: The evaluation must demonstrate that the international curriculum aligns with U.S. dietetics programs, particularly those accredited by ACEND or offered at the University of Hawaii.
Supervised Practice Requirement: Completion of at least 900–1000 hours of supervised dietetic practice through an ACEND-approved program is required. This can be completed in the U.S. or via an approved international program.
Pass the Registration Examination: Candidates must successfully pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam to obtain credentialing as a registered dietitian.
English Language Proficiency: Applicants whose education was not in English may need to demonstrate proficiency through standardized testing such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Immigration and Work Authorization: Maintaining appropriate visa and work authorization is required to complete supervised practice and employment in Hawaii in compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

For those considering flexible study options in Hawaii, exploring nutritional sciences degree programs may offer insights into accredited pathways that combine online coursework with supervised practice, helping students meet both state licensure and national RDN credentialing requirements.

What career paths can registered dietitians pursue in Hawaii?

Registered dietitians in Hawaii can explore diverse careers across clinical, community, educational, corporate, and remote settings. Each path offers unique responsibilities, stable demand, and competitive salaries.

Below are the key career options:

Clinical Dietitian: Work in hospitals or long-term care facilities providing medical nutrition therapy. Average salary is $80,380, with steady growth driven by the aging population.
Community Dietitian: Promote nutrition education through public health agencies. Salaries align with state averages, with rising demand in preventive health programs.
School Nutrition Specialist: Develop meal plans and educate students to support childhood obesity prevention. Positions offer stable employment near state-average salaries.
Military Dietitian: Support service members’ health on military bases. Salaries are comparable to clinical roles, with stability tied to base operations.
Private Practice Dietitian: Provide independent consulting and counseling. Income varies widely, with potential to exceed state averages.
Corporate and Industry Dietitian: Collaborate with food companies or wellness firms on health programs. Offers competitive pay and moderate job growth.
Remote/Telehealth Dietitian: Deliver nutrition counseling via telehealth. Flexible work and hourly rates of $35–$45 support growing demand.
Research and Academia Dietitian: Conduct nutrition research or teach dietetics. Salaries are similar to clinical roles, with opportunities for professional development.

With approximately 447 dietitians employed statewide and Hawaii ranking tenth nationally in average salary, the registered dietitian jobs in Hawaii offer diverse, well-compensated career opportunities. Those interested in advancing in this field may explore the list of most affordable online masters degrees in nutrition to enhance their credentials.

76% of registered dietitians are working in the field of dietetics and nutrition.

What do registered dietitians in Hawaii say about their career?

Starting my career as a registered dietitian in Hawaii allows me to combine modern nutrition science with traditional Hawaiian food practices. Connecting with students and families while promoting wellness in the community is deeply rewarding and keeps me motivated every day. Kelvin
Working as a dietitian in Hawaii provides stability and purpose, as I help students develop healthy habits that impact their long-term well-being. Embracing the diverse cultures and environmental influences here has enriched my professional and personal growth. Aimee
Being a registered dietitian in Hawaii offers continuous professional growth and engagement with the local community. Developing programs tailored to Hawaiian lifestyles and traditions allows me to make meaningful contributions to public health while expanding my expertise. Leonard

How does cultural diversity impact registered dietitian practice in Hawaii?

Registered dietitians in Hawaii must proficiently navigate a multicultural landscape where indigenous, Asian, and Pacific Islander traditions coexist. Professionals who integrate cultural insights into nutrition planning can develop tailored strategies that reflect local culinary practices and community values. Emphasizing culturally competent care enhances patient engagement and compliance by respecting traditional foods and regional dietary patterns. For further guidance on merging professional practice with local traditions, refer to how to become a nutritionist in Hawaii.

References:

Commission on Dietetic Registration. (n.d.). Retrieved from Commission on Dietetic Registration
Dietetics. (n.d.). Retrieved from University of Hawaii
Hawai‘i Registered Dietitian Nutritionist 2019-2020 Workforce Assessment - PMC. (2022). Retrieved from PMC
How to become a dietitian in Hawaii | Licensure in HI. (n.d.). Retrieved from Healthcare Pathway
How to become a licensed or non-licensed nutritionist in Hawaii - HI. (n.d.). Retrieved from Become a Nutritionist
How to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii - HI | Exam, license, and education requirements in Hawaii. (n.d.). Retrieved from NutritionED.org
Log into Facebook | Facebook. (n.d.). Retrieved from Facebook
Office of Health Care Assurance | Hawaii Licensed Dietitians. (n.d.). Retrieved from Hawaii Department of Health
Requirements for licensure | Dietetic Internship | Dept. of Nutrition | University of Nevada, Reno. (n.d.). Retrieved from University of Nevada, Reno
Students - Hawaii Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. (n.d.). Retrieved from Hawaii Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Registered Dietitian in Hawaii

What are the steps to become a registered dietitian in Hawaii in 2026?

To become a registered dietitian in Hawaii in 2026, earn a bachelor's degree from an ACEND-accredited dietetics program, complete a supervised dietetic internship, pass the CDR registration exam, and apply for state licensure. Completion of a master's degree is also required starting in 2024.

Can you major in any field and still qualify for dietetics prerequisites in Hawaii?

Yes, you can major outside dietetics or nutrition if you complete required coursework outlined by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Related fields like biology, chemistry, or health sciences are common pathways. Completing all dietetics prerequisites is essential for eligibility in supervised practice programs and eventual registration as an RD, so careful planning is required even for non-dietetics majors.

Are dietetic internships in Hawaii paid?

Most dietetic internships in Hawaii are unpaid, though some may offer modest stipends. These programs focus on essential supervised practice rather than compensation. Students should budget for living expenses, especially given Hawaii’s higher cost of living, and explore scholarships or part-time work to offset costs while completing the hands-on training required to become a registered dietitian.

Are scholarships or financial aid available for dietetics students in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii dietetics students can access scholarships and financial aid from local universities, professional organizations, and national associations. The University of Hawaii offers program-specific awards, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics provides national scholarships. Federal aid, including Pell Grants and student loans, is also available, helping students manage costs while completing the pathway to becoming a registered dietitian.