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Southwest Library | LEED Platinum | Photo: ©James Steinkamp Photography

Southwest Library

The LEED AP exams measure knowledge about green building, a specific LEED rating system and the certification process. The exam is ideal for individuals who are actively working on green building and LEED projects.

  • Exam: The combined exam includes the LEED Green Associate and LEED AP with specialty exams. Current LEED Green Associates can take the specialty-only portion. You have the option to take the exam at a Prometric Testing Center or from home as a remote proctored online exam. Review exam details. 
  • Maintain: LEED APs must earn 30 continuing education hours within two years of passing their exam. Access CMP information.

Which LEED AP specialty is right for you?

Access the LEED AP with Specialty Candidate Handbook


Building Design and Construction

LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Suits professionals with expertise in the design and construction phases of green buildings, serving the commercial, residential, education and healthcare sectors.


Operations and Maintenance

LEED AP Operations + Maintenance (LEED AP O+M)
Distinguishes professionals implementing sustainable practices, improving performance, heightening efficiency and reducing environmental impact in existing buildings through enhanced operations and maintenance.


Interior Design and Construction

LEED AP Interior Design + Construction (LEED AP ID+C)
Serves participants in the design, construction and improvement of commercial interiors and tenant spaces that offer a healthy, sustainable and productive work environment.


Neighborhood Developement

LEED AP Neighborhood Development (LEED AP ND)
Applies to individuals participating in the planning, design and development of walkable neighborhoods and communities.


Homes

LEED AP Homes
Suited for those involved in the design and construction of healthy, durable homes that use fewer resources and produce less waste.

Preparing for the exam

Candidate handbook

These handbooks cover exam content, policies & procedures:
LEED AP with specialty

Steps to become a LEED AP with specialty

  1. Register for the exam
  2. Schedule to take the exam at home or at a local Prometric testing center

LEED AP exam formats & procedures

  • Fees: Combined exam: $550 ($400 for USGBC members) / Specialty only: $350 ($250 for USGBC members)
  • Prerequisites/eligibility requirements: Must hold a current LEED Green Associate credential (or take and pass that exam at the same time) and be 18 years of age or older. Experience working on LEED-registered projects is strongly recommended.
  • Format: Combined exam: 100 multiple-choice questions per section / Specialty only: 100 multiple-choice questions. There are two ways to take the exam: you have the option to take the exam at a Prometric Testing Center or from home as a remote proctored online exam.
  • Language: Translation aids are available in Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, French and Spanish for the BD+C and O+M exams. Learn more.
  • Scoring: A passing score of 170 out of 200.
  • Rescheduling and cancellations: Permitted up to 3 days prior to exam. Some fees may apply. Learn more.

Earn continuing education for credential maintenance

Advance your knowledge of green building and sustainability concepts and practices. All LEED professionals are required to maintain their credential by earning continuing education hours; LEED APs must earn 30 continuing education hours within 2 years of earning their credential. You can earn hours through these activities related to green building: education, project experience, authorship and volunteering.

Download the CMP Guide for additional information about LEED professional credential maintenance.

Learn online

Access top sustainability and green building education to grow your knowledge and fulfill continuing education requirements. Explore the USGBC course catalog and purchase a yearlong subscription.

Playlists and filters take the guesswork out of finding the right course for you. Access courses eligible for LEED AP BD+C CE hours, Key concepts for contractors and builders, among others.


Learn in person

Attend events hosted by USGBC communities, previously known as chapters, which provide local leadership, networking, education, and volunteer opportunities for individuals. Browse all in-person events.

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