Texas · private practice guide
Starting a dietitian private practice in Texas
Texas licenses dietitians through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Texas's medical-records privacy law (Health & Safety Code ch. 181) defines “covered entity” more broadly than HIPAA and adds training and notice duties.
Credential: Licensed Dietitian (LD), regulated by TDLR
Official source: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Dietitians
Credential and scope
- Use “LD” only while your TDLR license is active. TDLR publishes the current licensing, renewal and continuing-education requirements.
- Show your Texas license number with your NPI on superbills; clients and payers can look you up through TDLR.
Privacy: Health & Safety Code chapter 181
- Chapter 181 defines a covered entity as anyone who, for professional gain or otherwise, assembles, collects, uses, stores or transmits protected health information — broader than HIPAA, so it can reach a cash-only practice.
- §181.101 requires covered entities to train employees on state and federal law concerning protected health information, within 90 days of hire.
- §181.154 requires notice to individuals whose protected health information is subject to electronic disclosure (for example, a posted or website notice).
Business and tax
- LLCs and other taxable entities are subject to the Texas franchise tax. The Comptroller states that entities at or below the no-tax-due threshold still file a Public Information Report or Ownership Report.
Every state
Federal rules apply in every state too: the No Surprises Act generally requires a Good Faith Estimate for uninsured or self-pay clients, and HIPAA applies if you transmit health information electronically in connection with standard transactions such as insurance billing. Also check whether your state has joined the Dietitian Licensure Compact before seeing clients across state lines.
Sources checked
Sources last checked October 2026. Laws change; confirm current requirements with the official source before relying on them. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
TX launch checklist
- ☐ Active TDLR LD license
- ☐ Individual NPI
- ☐ Ch. 181 privacy training record
- ☐ Electronic-disclosure notice posted
- ☐ Franchise tax / Public Information Report reminder
Free superbill audit →
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Use your Texas tax situation to set a sustainable fee.
Questions
Do dietitians need a license in Texas?
Texas licenses dietitians (LD) through TDLR. Check TDLR for current requirements and renewal rules.
Is HIPAA enough for a Texas cash-pay practice?
Not always. Health & Safety Code chapter 181 uses a broader covered-entity definition and requires privacy training and notice.
Need the paperwork? DietitianDesk has the client agreement, intake form, superbill guide and SOAP templates — from $19.
General information, not legal, tax or billing advice. Laws and board rules change — confirm with the official source above before acting. Last reviewed October 2026.
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