LEED AP BD+C® Exam

Overview

The LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C®) credential demonstrates advanced expertise in the LEED v4.1 Rating System, specifically for new construction, major renovations, and core & shell projects.

Earning the LEED AP BD+C credential establishes you as a sustainability leader who can guide project teams through the LEED process, apply green building best practices, and contribute to high-performance, resilient, and sustainable buildings.

The credential is awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI).

Why Earn LEED AP BD+C?

Establish Green Building Expertise
Showcase your ability to apply LEED strategies in design, construction, and renovation projects.

Advance Your Career
Strengthen your professional credibility with developers, contractors, architects, and sustainability leaders worldwide.

Support ESG & Sustainable Development Goals
Demonstrate alignment with global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks and corporate sustainability commitments.

Qualify for Project Roles
Many LEED projects require at least one LEED AP BD+C professional to contribute toward project certification points.

Exam Structure

• Format: Computer-based, multiple-choice

• Number of Questions: 100

• Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)

• Scoring: Scaled 125–200; passing score = 170

• Delivery: Online (remote proctoring) or at Prometric test centers

Exam Content Areas (LEED v4.1 BD+C)

The exam is based on the LEED AP BD+C Candidate Handbook and focuses on the following domains:

1. LEED Process – 16%

2. Integrative Strategies – 9%

3. Location & Transportation (LT) – 9%

4. Sustainable Sites (SS) – 9%

5. Water Efficiency (WE) – 9%

6. Energy & Atmosphere (EA) – 24%

7. Materials & Resources (MR) – 9%

8. Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) – 14%

9. Project Surroundings & Public Outreach – 1%

Eligibility & Requirements

There are no strict prerequisites. However, most candidates:

• Have experience in architecture, engineering, construction, or sustainability

• Hold the LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) credential before pursuing LEED AP

Note: You may take the combined exam (GA + AP) in one sitting.

Global Opportunities

More than 200,000 LEED professionals worldwide, with BD+C as the most in-demand specialization.

Required or preferred in green building projects, government contracts, and corporate ESG mandates.

Recognized in over 180 countries as a benchmark credential for sustainable design and construction.