This is a one-page template that you can fill out with all of the important points for each prerequisite and credit as you’re studying from the LEED Reference Guide. If you can take 5 or 6 pages from the reference guide and narrow it down into 1 easy to read page, you’re going to have a MUCH easier time trying to remember everything you need to know.

In addition, you can use the template page as a practice test. After you think you know everything there is to know about a prerequisite or credit, print out a copy and fill it in from memory. You’ll easily be able to see which parts still need help memorizing, and which parts you’ve already got down.

The blank study guide for the previous version of the exam was downloaded over 30,000 times, so you know this is definitely a helpful tool.

Please note that I do not and will not post a completed, filled-out version of the blank study guide because I do not want to infringe on any intellectual property copyright that is the rightful property of the USGBC. Everything is in the Reference Guide, and trust me you’ll learn more after you fill out the templates yourself, in a way that will optimize memorization specifically for you. Thank you for understanding.

Note: There is a file embedded within this post, please visit this post to download the file.

This is a one-page template that you can fill out with all of the important points for each prerequisite and credit as you’re studying from the LEED Reference Guide. If you can take 5 or 6 pages from the reference guide and narrow it down into 1 easy to read page, you’re going to have a MUCH easier time trying to remember everything you need to know.

In addition, you can use the template page as a practice test. After you think you know everything there is to know about a prerequisite or credit, print out a copy and fill it in from memory. You’ll easily be able to see which parts still need help memorizing, and which parts you’ve already got down.

The blank study guide for the previous version of the exam was downloaded over 30,000 times, so you know this is definitely a helpful tool.

Please note that I do not and will not post a completed, filled-out version of the blank study guide because I do not want to infringe on any intellectual property copyright that is the rightful property of the USGBC. Everything is in the Reference Guide, and trust me you’ll learn more after you fill out the templates yourself, in a way that will optimize memorization specifically for you. Thank you for understanding.

Note: There is a file embedded within this post, please visit this post to download the file.

This is a one-page template that you can fill out with all of the important points for each prerequisite and credit as you’re studying from the LEED Reference Guide. If you can take 5 or 6 pages from the reference guide and narrow it down into 1 easy to read page, you’re going to have a MUCH easier time trying to remember everything you need to know.

In addition, you can use the template page as a practice test. After you think you know everything there is to know about a prerequisite or credit, print out a copy and fill it in from memory. You’ll easily be able to see which parts still need help memorizing, and which parts you’ve already got down.

The blank study guide for the previous version of the exam was downloaded over 30,000 times, so you know this is definitely a helpful tool.

Please note that I do not and will not post a completed, filled-out version of the blank study guide because I do not want to infringe on any intellectual property copyright that is the rightful property of the USGBC. Everything is in the Reference Guide, and trust me you’ll learn more after you fill out the templates yourself, in a way that will optimize memorization specifically for you. Thank you for understanding.

Note: There is a file embedded within this post, please visit this post to download the file.

Here is some general information regarding Credit Interpretation Requests that you need to know for the exam:

• CIRs can be submitted anytime after a project is registered.
• People on the project team are the ones who decide when a CIR is needed, not the GBCI.
• CIRs can only be submitted by project teams associated with a registered project.
• The entire CIR process is done through LEED-Online.

Next, here is a list of specific information regarding the CIR that you also need to know:

• $220 per CIR that is submited. (Yes – two hundred and twenty USD)
• Each submitted CIR should only address a clarification request for one specific LEED requirement
• The CIR submittal package must include only the essential project strategy and background.
• It should NOT be formatted as a letter. 600 words maximum.
• It should NOT include any confidential project info.
• It should NOT state the credit name or contact information. This is already known because it’s done via LEED-Online, which has this information already.
• It should NOT include any attachments
• CIRs NEVER awards points or guarantee that points will be awarded for credits where CIRs are submitted for.

Now, for ALL RATING SYSTEMS, which includes the older rating systems: All CIR rulings that are responses to requests submitted after June 26th, 2009 will be project specific. This means that when a project team asks the GBCI for clarification using a CIR, their answer only pertains to that particular credit for that particular project at that particular time.

Furthermore, this means that rulings are not precedent setting and will not apply to any projects other than the one it was submitted for, even if it was the same type of project, or a request by the same project team.

In addition, the CIR ruling database that was created for project certification under the older rating systems (LEED NCv2.2, for example) cannot be used or referred to for projects certifying under LEED v3.

Specifically, it happens after project registration, after the project administrator assigned credits to project team members, and after those project team members fill out the respective LEED Credits Forms – which means the project is ready to submit this information to the GBCI for review.

Below is a checklist flow chart of exactly how the submittal process works:

• For all rating systems (except LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance):
  • Each credit in the LEED rating system is either a design phase credit, or a construction phase credit. This information is shown to the project team in LEED-Online, which is different than in previous versions, where it was shown in the reference guide.
  • The submittal process can be split into two phases: a design review phase, then a construction review phase; or
  • The submittal process can just be one combined review.

Design Application Phase (which is optional)

• A LEED review team will review the design phase credits only (submitted via LEED-Online). The reason this is here is because it allows the project team to submit credits early so that they can gauge whether or not those credits are on track for approval or not. It’s a courtesy review by the GBCI, which is usually taken advantage of.
• Within 25 business days, the GBCI will mark the credits as either Anticipated, or Denied. Please note that no points are awarded during these initial design reviews.
• The project team will then have 25 business days to request any confirmations from the GBCI regarding their review.
  • Within 15 days of that, the GBCI will issue a Final Design Review.
  • Project teams can then:
    • Accept the ruling and move into the construction application phase; or
    • Appeal and move into the design appeal phase.
      • Fee per appealed credit is $500.
      • Within 25 business days, the GBCI will again mark the credits as Anticipated or Denied. There is no clarification period during the appeal phase.
      • Again, the project team can:
        • Accept the ruling and move into the construction application phase; or
        • Appeal and move into the design appeal phase again.

Construction Application Phase

• A LEED review team will review the design phase credits & construction phase credits (LEED-Online)
• These credits can only be submitted after the project administrator has attempted all prerequisites and the minimum number of credits required for certification.
  • Within 25 business days, the GBCI will mark the credits as either Anticipated, or Denied. Please note that again – no points are awarded during these reviews.
  • The project team will then have 25 business days to request any confirmations from the GBCI regarding their review.
  • Within 15 days of that, the GBCI will issue a Final Design Review.
    • Project teams can then:
      • Accept the ruling and move into the certification / denial phase; or
      • Appeal and move into the construction appeal phase.
        • Fee per appealed credit is $500.
        • Within 25 business days, the GBCI will again mark the credits as Anticipated or Denied. There is no clarification period during the appeal phase.
          • Again, the project team can:
            • Accept the ruling and move into the certification / denial phase; or
            • Appeal and move into the construction appeal phase again.

Certified / Denial Phase

Here, after the Final Construction Review results are accepted, the project is either:

1. LEED certified, at a certain certification level: Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum
2. Denied, at which point the project is closed and can no longer be reviews.

Because of this, project teams will do all necessary appeals and changes before getting to the certification / denial phase.

Now, during the entire LEED certification process, there may be a point where the project team has a question or needs clarification from the GBCI regarding a particular LEED strategy or requirement. If this happens, the project team must submit a Credit Interpretation Ruling, or CIR for short. For more information about CIRs, please click the link below:

Information about Credit Interpretation Rulings

There are several parts to the LEED Application Process:

• Project Registration
• LEED-Online
• The LEED Score Card
• LEED Credit Forms or Credit Templates
• The Credit Submittal Process
• Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs); and
• Appeals

Project Registration

The first thing a project does when applying for LEED certification is register with the GBCI. Registration is done online, and it establishes the point of contact between the project and the GBCI, which is important.

Project registration costs $450.00 for USGBC members, and $600.00 for non-members, regardless of the project size and rating system. Please note that registration fees are different than application fees, which we’ll talk about during the submittal process.

The person who registers the project automatically becomes the Project Administrator. This is an important role who becomes the main point of contact for the GBCI regarding the registered project. This person also invited new team members into the project team, and is the one who submits the completed credit templates.

LEED-Online

“LEED-Online” is an online tool that the project team uses during the entire application process. Now, don’t be confused here. Access to LEED-Online is given to project teams after the project is registered. The confusing part is when people say that registration for LEED happens online, which is true, but the “LEED-Online” tool is only accessible after the project is registered.

Again, LEED Online is the tool that project teams use for LEED certification. It has everything the team needs under a Project Dashboard, which includes:

• A control panel which has the basic project details, the next steps to do, and a point summary for the project.
• A team administration area, where the project manager can invite team members to the project.
• An area for submitting credit interpretation rulings (CIRs)
• The LEED Scorecard, which we’ll talk about next
• LEED Credit Forms, which are the most important part about the LEED application process. It’s how the project teams enter data for each credit and submit them to the GBCI.
• A timeline which shows how far along the project is to certification.

Unfortunately, you must be working on a LEED certified project and invited by the project manager in order to access the LEED-Online tool, so I have no screenshots or examples that I can show you just yet.

LEED Score Card

The LEED Score Card is another tool that is located within LEED-Online. It’s basically a chart or checklist that is unique to the rating system that is being applied for (New Construction, Schools, Core & Shell, Interior Design, Operations and Maintenance, Homes, Neighborhood Development), which lists all of the prerequisites and credits and helps the project team determine exactly which credits the project team will pursue and what rating (certified, silver, gold or platinum) it will shoot for. Usually, the score card is filled out in a “design charette” type meeting where many of the people involved in the project collaborate with each other.

Here are some links to a couple examples of LEED Score Cards from previous versions of the exam on the net:

• USGBC Sample Score Card
• Scorecard for Previous Version

LEED Credit Forms / Templates

The LEED Credit Forms, also known as LEED Credit Templates, are used to submit the necessary credit information and data to the GBCI. Here’s how it works:

1. There are separate credit forms, once for each prerequisite and credit within the particular LEED rating system.
2. The project administrator assigns these individual credits (the one’s that are being attempted for LEED certification based on the LEED Score Card), to the project team members who are responsible for filling in the required data.
3. Each credit’s requirements and data entry fields, which may include uploaded documentations or drawings, are completed by  team member assigned to that particular credit via LEED-Online.
4. The credit forms are submitted to the GBCI during the Submittal Process.

Sample LEED Credit Forms for LEED v3 have not yet been published. There are, however, samples from the previous versions of LEED which can be found below. Please note that these will look different for LEED version 3, but the format is similar.

• Sample LEED Credit Templates (Not for LEED v3)

The Submittal Process

I’ve broken down the information for the submittal process, as well as Credit Interpretation Requests and Appeals in a different page. Please click on the link below to be taken to information about the LEED submittal process.

• The LEED Submittal Process and Appeals

Currently, the only helpful information I can find about the LEED Canada Exam is from the link below:

• Practice Exam for the LEED Canada NC v1.0 Exam

In addition, material for the U.S. LEED Version 2.2 New Construction exam will prove to be helpful as well, since they are almost exactly the same (there are some minor differences, so using your CaGBC reference guide is always your best bet). You may be able to find some LEED NCv2.2 study guides around the net.

I wish you the best of luck on your LEED for Canada NC 1.0 Exam!

The United States Green Building Countil (USGBC) and Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) have recently upgraded to LEED version 3.0, which is significantly different than the previous versions with both a more efficient building certification process, and a more complicated and updated Professional Accreditation program.

The CaGBC, however, has not yet updated LEED to reflect the current changes in the U.S. version and is currently still administering the LEED for NC v1.0 exam. An excerpt from the CaGBC website states:

“The CaGBC will continue to offer the LEED Canada NC 1.0 and LEED Canada CI exams in Canada for the duration of 2009. Further information will be posted soon with respect to the new credentialing program being developed by the GBCI (www.gbci.org) and its impact on LEED AP’s in Canada.”

The GBCI will be taking over administering the LEED Canada exams in 2010. Here is a link to some important FAQs regarding this transition, as well as information about the new versions of the exam and credentialing system.

Below are some important links that you may find useful regarding the LEED Canada NC 1.0 exam:

• The CaGBC Homepage
• CaGBC: Become a LEED AP
• Schedule Your LEED NC 1.0 Exam Here
• Study Resources for the LEED NC 1.0 Exam

The O&M portion of the exam will test your knowledge of the information in the Green Building Operations and Maintenance reference guide. You will need to memorize all prerequisites, credits and their related details in order to successfully complete the exam.

The O&M reference guide is broken down into the following 6 categories:

• Sustainable Sites (SS)
• Water Efficiency (WE)
• Energy and Atmosphere (WE)
• Materials and Resources (MR)
• Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)
• Innovation in Operations (ID)

There is also a section about regional priority you should learn about.

Each category is broken down into related prerequisites and credits. Prerequisites are mandatory requirements that a project team must fulfill. If the project fails to meet even just one of the 10 prerequisites, it will not qualify for LEED certification. No points are earned for fulfilling the requirements of the prerequisites.

Credits are where the points are earned. Each credit contains a different strategy and specific requirements that you need to memorize backwards and forwards. Each credit is neatly broken down further into the following parts:

• Intent
• Requirements
• Benefits and Issues to Consider
• Related Credits
• Summary of Referenced Standards
• Implementation
• Timeline and Team
• Calculations
• Documentation Guidance
• Examples
• Exemplary Performance
• Regional Variations
• Operations and Maintenance Consideration
• Resources; and
• Definitions

It’s your job to understand each and every part of each prerequisite and credit. It’s a lot of information to cover, especially with around 60 prerequisites and credits in total – but planning ahead, creating a schedule and studying smart will give you the best chance to pass.

Feel free to use any of the resources found on greenexamacademy.com, and don’t be afraid to ask questions in the comment sections below – everyone is here to learn and help each other out.

I wish you the best of luck.

The ID+C portion of the exam will test your knowledge of the information in the BD+C reference guide. You will need to memorize all prerequisites, credits and their related details in order to successfully complete the exam.

The ID+C reference guide is broken down into the following 6 categories:

• Sustainable Sites (SS)
• Water Efficiency (WE)
• Energy and Atmosphere (WE)
• Materials and Resources (MR)
• Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)
• Innovation in Design (ID)

There is also a section about regional priority you should learn about.

Each category is broken down into related prerequisites and credits. Prerequisites are mandatory requirements that a project team must fulfill. If the project fails to meet even just one of the 10 prerequisites, it will not qualify for LEED certification. No points are earned for fulfilling the requirements of the prerequisites.

Credits are where the points are earned. Each credit contains a different strategy and specific requirements that you need to memorize backwards and forwards. Each credit is neatly broken down further into the following parts:

• Intent
• Requirements
• Benefits and Issues to Consider
• Related Credits
• Summary of Referenced Standards
• Implementation
• Timeline and Team
• Calculations
• Documentation Guidance
• Examples
• Exemplary Performance
• Regional Variations
• Operations and Maintenance Consideration
• Resources; and
• Definitions

It’s your job to understand each and every part of each prerequisite and credit. It’s a lot of information to cover, especially with around 60 prerequisites and credits in total – but planning ahead, creating a schedule and studying smart will give you the best chance to pass.

Feel free to use any of the resources found on greenexamacademy.com, and don’t be afraid to ask questions in the comment sections below – everyone is here to learn and help each other out.

I wish you the best of luck.

The BD+C portion of the exam will test your knowledge of the information in the BD+C reference guide. You will need to memorize all prerequisites, credits and their related details in order to successfully complete the exam.

The BD+C reference guide is broken down into the following 6 categories:

• Sustainable Sites (SS)
• Water Efficiency (WE)
• Energy and Atmosphere (WE)
• Materials and Resources (MR)
• Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)
• Innovation in Design (ID)

There is also a section about regional priority and five Core & Shell appendices you should also learn about.

Each category is broken down into related prerequisites and credits. Prerequisites are mandatory requirements that a project team must fulfill. If the project fails to meet even just one of the 10 prerequisites, it will not qualify for LEED certification. No points are earned for fulfilling the requirements of the prerequisites.

Credits are where the points are earned. Each credit contains a different strategy and specific requirements that you need to memorize backwards and forwards. Each credit is neatly broken down further into the following parts:

• Intent
• Requirements
• Benefits and Issues to Consider
• Related Credits
• Summary of Referenced Standards
• Implementation
• Timeline and Team
• Calculations
• Documentation Guidance
• Examples
• Exemplary Performance
• Regional Variations
• Operations and Maintenance Consideration
• Resources; and
• Definitions

It’s your job to understand each and every part of each prerequisite and credit. It’s a lot of information to cover, especially with around 70 prerequisites and credits in total – but planning ahead, creating a schedule and studying smart will give you the best chance to pass.

Feel free to use any of the resources found on greenexamacademy.com, and don’t be afraid to ask questions in the comment sections below – everyone is here to learn and help each other out.

I wish you the best of luck.

• Minimum Program Requirements, Prerequisites & Credits

In order for a project to be eligible for LEED certification, it must meet certain minimum program requirements. There are 3 reasons for this:

1.    To give clear guidance to customers
2.    To protect the integrity of the LEED program
3.    Reduce challenges that may arise during certification

LEED projects MUST comply with each applicable MPR, as described below.

Minimum Program Requirement	MPR Notes
Environmental Laws	NC, CS, CI & Schools: 1. Must comply with federal, state and local environmental laws 2. Must be satisfied from schematic design through certificate of occupancy / ready for use O&M: must be satisfied from performance period through expiration date of LEED Certification
Complete, Permanent Project	For all LEED Rating Systems: -Must be on a permanent location on land that already exists NC, CS, Schools: 1. Must include at least one building in its entirety 2. Construction prerequisites and credits cannot be submitted for review until substantial completion of construction CI: 1. Must include a complete interior space separate from other spaces with respect to: ownership, management, lease, & party walls 2. Construction prerequisites and credits cannot be submitted for review until completion of construction O&M: -Must include one existing building in its entirety
Reasonable Site Boundary	For all LEED Rating Systems: 1. LEED project boundary includes all land that was or will be disturbed for the LEED project that is owned by the LEED project party 2. Manipulation of boundaries (gerrymandering) is not allowed
Minimum Floor Area Requirements	NC, CS, Schools, O&M: -Minimum gross floor area: 1,000 sq. ft. CI: -Minimum gross floor area: 250 sq. ft.
Minimum Occupancy Rates	For all LEED Rating Systems: -Must have 1 or more Full Time Equivalent Occupants O&M (additionally): -Building systems must be operating for a period of at least 12 months prior to submission for a review
Sharing Energy & Water Usage Data	For all LEED Rating Systems: -Project must grant the USGBC and GBCI access to whole-building energy & water usage data for a period of at least 5 years
Minimum Building Area to Site Ratio	For all LEED Rating Systems: -The LEED project's total gross cloor area must be at least 2% of the gross land area within the LEED project boundary

Remember, if a project fails to meet even one of the MPRs listed above, it cannot be eligible for LEED certification.

Part of the responsibility of a LEED Green Associate is to comprehend the application of LEED for potential LEED certified projects. This involves the understanding of the various rating systems and for what kinds of projects they should be used for.

In addition, project requirements and the cost implications of the LEED process should also be understood.

The LEED Application Process

The LEED Application process is the method by which a project becomes LEED certified. This involves how a project team may apply and register their project for LEED certification, how credit information is given to the USGBC, how a team may ask questions to the USGBC for clarification, or how a team may appeal rulings by the USGBC.

LEED Credits and Prerequisites

The core of the LEED curriculum involves mandatory project requirements called prerequisites, as well as points earned through various credits. It is the LEED Green Associate’s responsibility to understand the point system and how prerequisites and credits are earned – the strategies behind them, the codes and standards used to help satisfy them, as well as how different credits interact with each other.

LEED Specific Strategies

You will also need to understand specific strategies that are involved across the various LEED Rating Systems, as well as how they interact with one another. LEED Strategies are divided into the following categories:

• Site Selection
• Water Efficiency
• Energy and Atmosphere
• Materials and Resources
• Indoor Environmental Quality; and
• Innovation in Design

Additional Exam Material

Lastly, you will also need to know general USGBC policies and other green resources.

For more information about what’s on the exam, please take a look at the Green Associate exam candidate handbook, which can be found on the GBCI website. If you’re interested in study material for the Green Associate exam, please click here.

LEED APPLICATION PROCESS FLOW CHART
1. Project Registration
•Access to LEED-Online -LEED Score Card & Credit Forms -Cost depends on USGBC membership ($450 for members, $600 for non-members)
2. Design Application Phase (optional)
•Submit via LEED-Online -Comes back "Anticipated" or "Denied" (25 days) -No points awarded •Clarification Request (25 days) •Final Design Review (15 days) -Project team can: -ACCEPT: goes to Construction Application Phase -APPEAL: goes to Design Appeal Phase
3. Design Appeal Phase
•$500.00 per appeal •Changes made and submitted once again -Comes back "Anticipated" or "Denied" (25 days) •No clarification requests •Final Design Review (15 days)
4. Construction Application Phase
•Submit via LEED-Online (both design & constrution) -Comes back "Anticipated" or "Denied" (25 days) -No points awarded yet •Clarification Request (25 days) •Final Construction Review (15 days) -Project team can: -ACCEPT: goes to Certification/Denial Phase -APPEAL: does to Construction Appeal Phase
5. Construction Appeal Phase
•$500.00 per appeal •Changes made and submitted once again -Comes back "Anticipated" or "Denied" •No clarification requests •Final Construction Review (15 days)
6. Certified / Denial Phase
•After Final Construction Review is ACCEPTED: -LEED certified: Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum -Denied: project closed (appeals should be done in prior phases)

*note: Certification fees are paid during the design and/or construction submittal. Certification fees depend on project size.

Note that the Building Design & Construction reference guide and exam includes information about LEED for New Construction, LEED for Core & Shell and LEED for Schools, all in one.

LEED Rating System	Reference Guide / Exam	Description (When to Use)
New Construction (NC)	BD+C	•New buildings •Major renovations: HVAC, envelope & interior rehabilitation •Commercial occupancies: offices, institutional, hotels, residential with 4 or more stories •Shared tenant space: occupy more than 50% of leasable sq. ft.
Core & Shell (CS)	BD+C	•Developer controls core & shell but not tentant fit-out •Commercial & medical office bldgs, retail centers, warehouses •Shared tenant space: occupy less than 50% of leasable sq. ft.
Schools	BD+C	•K thru 12 Only •New schools & renovations of existing •Following can be used for LEED for Schools or NC: -non-academic buildings: admin offices, maintenance facilities, dorms -postsecondary academic & prekindergarten buildings
Existing Building: Operations & Maintenance (O&M)	EB: O&M	•Applies to buildings new to LEED or previously certified under NC, CS or Schools •Commercial occupancies: offices, institutional, hotels, residential with 4 or more stories •Applicable for: -building operations -process & system upgrades -minor space-use changes, facility alterations & additions •Individual tenant spaces do not apply
Commercial Interior (CI)	ID+C	•For tenant spaces: -office, retail & institutional -tentant spaces that don't occupy entire building •Works hand-in-hand with LEED for CS.
Homes	Homes	•New residences & major re-models -single-family, low-rise multi family, affordable housing, production, manufactured & modular housing
Neighborhood Development (ND)	ND	•For developmental projects: -neighborhoods (whole, fraction or multiple) -smaller infill projects -larger mixed use developments

The Setup

• Find a quiet place to take the exam without any distractions.
• Have a pencil and scratch paper readily available by your side.
• Have a watch of clock nearly to easily glance at.
• If you’re taking a non-computer based practice test you find, I recommend printing it out or making copies of it first and circling your answers on those pages, rather than placing your answers on a separate sheet. You’ll learn more this way when you grade yourself, because looking at only the letter of the answer won’t teach you a thing.
• Pretend the exam is the real thing.

During the Practice Exam

• Give yourself 2 hours to complete the exam.
• Read each question carefully. Be sure to answer the correct amount of answers each time (i.e. Choose 3).
• If you get stuck on a particular question, skip it and come back to it later. You might remember new things as the test goes along. If you’re on paper, mark it with a big “M” so you can easily find it later.
• Use your scratch paper. People often forget it’s there during the real exam, so practice with it and use it to your advantage. I like to write things down like charts or “braindumps” related to the particular question I’m looking at.
• Try to stay focused. Two hours is a long time to sit and do one thing. If you need a break, feel free to get up, stretch, or walk around a little. You can do this during the real exam (you must first raise your hand though). Just remember: the clock is ticking.
• If you finish early, go through your answers one more time, making sure you have answered all of the questions you previously skipped.

After your Practice Exam

• Go through the answer key and evaluate your score. If you want to take it a step further, go through each question one-by-one. When you answer correctly, understand how you chose the correct answer.
• If you answer incorrectly, put a big circle around it and analyze the question to understand how you chose the wrong answer. If you don’t understand why, place a big “?” next to it so you’ll know to ask about it later when you have a chance.
• If the reason you answered a question incorrectly was because you misread the question, BOO on you! This should be a reminder of how important it is to read each question carefully. Don’t give yourself a chance to answer incorrectly. Especially watch out for those questions that say “not” or “except”.
• Notice the questions you have answered incorrectly as a whole. Are there any patterns that you can see? Maybe a majority of them have to do with a particular subject, such as the application process. Make note of that, and be sure to really hit those trouble points during your next study session.

For a listing of the best practice exams that you could possibly use to help you study for your LEED exam, please click here.

The first step is applying for the exam, then registering for the exam, and finally scheduling your exam. This is a little more complicated than it was in the past, and does involve uploading documentation to prove your eligibility, but I’m sure the following explanation will make it much easier for you.

Before anything, you should definitely download the LEED candidate handbook for the exam you will be taking (the only handbooks currently available are for exams that are currently live and running). The handbook contains important detailed information about the current policies and procedures for taking the LEED exam. Here are the basics:

Step 1: Applying for the Exam

Go to the GBCI website and click on My Credentials at the top. Click on the button underneath “First Time Here?” to create an account. Follow the instructions on the screen to proceed. (If you already have an account from a previous version of the LEED exam, just type in your login information).

Important things to know:

• Make sure your enter your name EXACTLY as it is shown on your ID.
• If your company is a member of the USGBC, you will save $50 on your exam fee (not the application fee). Enter your company’s Corporate Access ID in the additional information section, which you can probably find through your company’s human resources or marketing department.
• Select your credentialing route (the specific exam you’d like to take…if you’re unsure, please visit the FAQ for more info)
• You will then need to upload the documentation that is required to prove your eligibility to take the exam. Get your letter or education certificate ready and scanned before you begin this process. (for more information about eligibility requirements for each exam, please visit the FAQ for more info)
• You’ll also need to read the GBCI’s terms and conditions, disciplinary policy and Credential Maintenance Program guidelines and electronically sign that you agree.
• You will have to pay a non-refundable LEED application fee (which is different from the exam fee). It’s $50 for the LEED Green Associate exam, and $100 for a LEED AP Specialty exam. Credit or debit cards are acceptable payment methods.
• You will then get a confirmation on-screen that your application has been submitted. I would print this out for your records.
• Within 7 days, your application will be reviewed by the GBCI and you’ll receive notice that your application is either approved or incomplete.
• If approved: you can then proceed to exam registration. Your application is valid for 1 year from your approval date, and you are given three changed to pass the exam you chose within the one-year application period.
• If incomplete (or your application expires because you waited too long or failed 3 times, you will have to wait 90 days before reapplying.

Step 2: Registering for the Exam

After your application is approved, go back to the GBCI website and click on My Credentials at the top and login. Select register for an exam from your current options. If you don’t see this, you either:

• Didn’t apply for an exam yet (see step 1 above)
• Your application has not yet been approved
• Your application has been denied
• Your application has expired

Remember, you can register for the exam anything within a year of your application’s approval (from step 1). You can only have one pending exam registration given at any time. However, there is no waiting period in between exams (in case you were to fail and wanted to take it again right away).

Registration will generate an eligibility ID, which you will need to write down so you can finally schedule and pay for your exam.

Step 3: Scheduling the Exam

After applying for the exam, and registering for an eligibility ID, visit the Prometric website to schedule an appointment. Prometric is a third-party testing company that adminsters the LEED exams for the GBCI.

You will need your eligibility ID from the previous step in order to proceed and schedule your exam. Follow the instructions on the screen to select a test site, schedule a date and a time and enter your payment information.

After your schedule, you’ll get a confirmation number on screen and in an email. PRINT THIS OUT! You will need this information if you want to contact anyone about your exam for any reason.

Frequently Asked Questions about Taking the Exam:

• How much does it cost to take the Green Associate exam?

For the LEED Green Associate exam, it will cost you $150 if your company is a member of the USGBC or if you are a full-time student. Otherwise, you will be charged $200.

If you’re taking both parts of the LEED AP Specialty exam (the GA exam + Specialty exam), it will cost you $300 if your company is a member of the USGBC. Otherwise, you will be charged $450.

If you’re taking just the specialty exam portion of the exam, because you’re either a LEED AP from a previous LEED exam, or you already passed your GA exam, it will cost you $150 if your company is a member of the USGBC. Otherwise, you will be charged $200.

• When will I be charged for the exam fee?

If you’re in the U.S. you will be charged the day you take your exam. If you’re outside the U.S. you will be charged the same day you scheduled your exam.

• Is it true that I can get reimbursed for taking the LEED exam from my company?

It depends – some companies do reimburse for the LEED exam, while others do not. Some companies will only reimburse you if you pass. I heard of one person who got reimbursed by his company because he agreed to hold a LEED study course for other employees if he passed. Pretty cool! You’ll have to ask.

• How far in advance should I schedule my exam?

The answer to this question really depends on you and your schedule. Maybe you’re a genius and only have to read through the material once to absorb it all, in which case you could schedule it for next week. However, if you’re like me you’ll need a little more time and effort to grasp all of the information. When I took my LEED exam, I gave myself a generous 2 months. Before choosing your exam date, read through the rest of this guide so you can estimate how much time you may need.

• Can I reschedule my exam if something comes up?

Yes. If you feel you scheduled your exam a little too soon, or something came up on the date of your scheduled exam, you can indeed reschedule. When I took my exam, I actually felt like I was not ready for the initial date I chose, so I rescheduled it for a few weeks later. If you reschedule within 30 days or less before your original exam appointment, it will cost you an extra $30. To reschedule, all you have to is go back to the Prometric website (www.prometric.com/gbci) and follow the on-screen instructions. You must reschedule no later than midnight 3 days before your scheduled exam.

• What happens if I fail? Do I have to pay again?

If you fail your first exam, you can re-register for the exam two more times within a year of your exam application approval. You can reschedule as soon as you’d like, but unfortunately you will have to pay the exact same fee for your exam again.

• Pat, do you have any other helpful tips from your experience with scheduling?

My advice to you is this: don’t just choose a date and time that is most convenient for you. You should also think about how you feel during certain times of the day. Let me explain…

I chose to take my exam on a Monday morning because I know that personally, I am more focused in the mornings, as opposed to after lunch. Also, I knew it would be nice to have the entire weekend prior to my Monday appointment to study without any work items looming over me at the same time. I feel this really made a difference in my score.

It’s really up to you though.

Both the Green Associate exam and the LEED AP Specialty exams consist of 100 questions each. In order to pass, you must get a score of at least 170 out of a possible 200 points. However, it’s not as simple as each question being worth 2 points. From an article from my friends at BuildingGreen.com, we learn that it’s a little more complicated than that. Even so, I assure you that the USGBC and the GBCI has done a lot of research and spent a lot of time trying to make the exam process as fair as possible.

We know from the GBCI website and the candidate handbooks for each exam that they are graded on a scale, but they don’t really go into much detail about exactly what this means. Based on the BuildingGreen article, each exam has different versions (how many exactly is unsure), with a different set of questions for each. Instead of trying to make each exam set equally difficult, a “difficulty coeficcient” or “multiplier” is given to each exam. Your “raw score” on the exam is multiplied by that coefficient and your scaled score is the resulting number. If it’s above 170, you pass. Again, they do this so your scores are fair no matter the difficulty of the exam set you take.

Many questions on the LEED exams require more than 1 correct answer. Based on the information from BuildingGreen.com, we can also assume there is no partial credit for answering just part of the question correctly when multiple answers are required.

I recommend reading the article from BuildingGreen.com as it goes a little more in depth with the analysis.

Again, don’t worry so much about this – just do your best to get 200 out of 200, in which case, how the exam is graded doesn’t mean a thing.

• If you’re an existing LEED AP from a previous version of the exam, click here.
• If you’re brand new to LEED and don’t know what it’s about, click here.
• If you failed a previous version of the exam, don’t worry – I know how frustrating that can be. Becoming a part of LEED v3 is a little more complicated, but you’re in the right spot. I’m here to help, so let’s get started:
  

The LEED credentialing process is a 3-tiered system:

• Tier 1: LEED Green Associate
• Tier 2: LEED AP Specialization
• Tier 3: LEED AP Fellow

The LEED AP Fellow is reserved for elite participants in the LEED community, so we’ll just be talking about the first two tiers: the LEED Green Associate and the LEED AP Specialization paths.

Because you’re new, you can either take a LEED AP Specialization test to become a LEED AP+, or the LEED Green Associate exam to become a LEED GA. Which test you should take depends on your experience and your career paths. Let’s keep on reading to find out more about each exam.

LEED AP Specialization Exams

We’ll talk first about the LEED AP Specialization exams because there is a major eligibility requirement that many people will be unable to meet.

A LEED AP Specialization exam is a two-part exam. Part 1 is actually the LEED Green Associate exam, and part 2 is related to the specialization that you choose.

The specialization part tests you on your green building knowledge within a specific LEED rating system. It’s mainly for the people who will be working on LEED projects in the field, such as architects, engineers, contractors, etc.

After you pass, you will then be able to work on certifying LEED projects in your specialization as the LEED Accredited Professional. Here is a list of the various specialization exams:

• LEED for Building Design & Construction (BD+C)
• LEED for Interior Design & Construction (ID+C)
• LEED for Building Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
• LEED for Homes
• LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)

However, like I said, there is an eligibility requirement to take one of these exams:

You MUST have previous experience with a LEED registered project within three years of your application submittal date. This must be documented in the form of a letter from a supervisor, client, or project manager, etc. and must describe your involvement on the LEED project. This information is uploaded during your application process for the exam.

If you don’t have this experience, then you’ll have to enter LEED v3 by taking the tier 1, LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) exam. You can take the specialty exam later once you become eligible. Click here to go to the LEED Green Associate exam section below.

If You Are Eligible for a LEED AP+ Exam

If you happen to be eligible, you may be wondering which specialty exam you should take. This decision is up to you, and should be based on your career path and the career goals you have. That being said, here is a short description of each specialization exam for your information:

• Building Design & Construction (BD&C): This exam actually covers three different rating systems: New Construction (which includes major renovation), Schools, and Core & Shell.
• Interior Design & Construction (ID&C): This rating system is mainly for tenant spaces that don’t occupy an entire building, i.e. tenant improvement projects.
• Existing Building: Operations & Maintenance (O&M): This rating system is applicable for buildings with commercial occupancies that involve building operations, process & system upgrades, minor space-use changes, facility alterations and additions.
• Homes: This track covers single-family, low-rise multi family (under 4 stories), affordable housing, production, manufactured & modular homes.
• Neighborhood Development (ND): Mainly developmental projects, such as neighborhoods, infill projects and larger mixed use developments.

Not all of them are live yet. In fact, only LEED for Homes and LEED for O&M are available at the moment. BD&C and ID+C are scheduled for September 15th, 2009 and ND in 2010. However, you should begin studying as soon as you feel comfortable about which exam you want to take.

What to Study and How to Study for a LEED Specialty Exam

The LEED AP Specialty exams are all based off of the Reference Guide of the particular rating system you choose. The Reference Guide is the manual that is used when certifying a LEED project, so you’re going to want to pick one up, even if you plan to use a study guide to help you study. It does help to use the Reference Guide along with a study guide at the same time. Reference Guides can be purchased from the USGBC on the publication list via their website.

In addition to what’s located in the Reference Guide, information from the USGBC website and the GBCI website are all fair game for the exam as well. This includes information about the LEED Application Process, Minimum Project Requirements (MPRs), Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs), etc.

As you can probably tell, there is a lot to learn, which is why I recommend using a study guide to supplement your studying. You can check out the study guides for your exam of choice in the left hand side of this website, or by clicking here.

Probably the best way to practice for the exam after you believe you’ve learned what you need to know is by taking practice tests. Again, you can view the best practice exams for each test in the left hand side of this website, or by clicking here.

Lastly, you are free to use any of the free resources found on the homepage of greenexamacademy.com under the category for the specific exam you plan to take. There are helpful tips and charts that are free, which should help you memorize and understand the information even further.

Here is some more info about the exam:

• 2 part exam, 2 hours each (4 hours total)
• The 1st part is actually the Green Associate Exam (see below)
• 100 multiple-choice questions for each part (200 total)
• Computer-based test
• For two-part exam: USGBC national members: $300, All others: $400
• For specialty exam only: $150/$250

For more information, please check out the handbooks which can be found on the GBCI website.

The LEED Green Associate Exam

The LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) exam is the 1st tier in the LEED credentialing process, and is the stepping stone to earning your LEED AP with specialty.

The GA exam is less detailed than the specialty exams, but can cover general green building concepts that span across all LEED rating systems.

The GBCI website states that the Green Associate exam is “for professionals who want to demonstrate green building expertise in non-technical fields of practice…[it] denotes basic knowledge of green design, construction and operations.”

This exam is geared toward the product manufacturers, the marketers, the finance people, students, people in customer service for a large construction firm, etc. It’s also for people who are not yet eligible to take a LEED AP specialty exam.

In order to take the LEED Green Associate exam, you must meet one of the following eligibility requirements:

• You must have previous experience supporting a LEED-registered project, or
• You must have experience working in a sustainable field of work, or
• You must have attended an education program that addresses green building principles.

Your experience must be documented in the form of a letter from a supervisor, client, project manager, or teacher, and describe your involvement. A completion certification from an educational program, or an official transcript will suffice. This information is uploaded during your application process for the exam.

Let’s go through each of these eligibility requirements one-by-one:

You must have previous experience supporting a LEED-registered project

This is self-explanatory. If you’ve worked on a LEED registered project in any way, shape or form – then you qualify for the LEED Green Associate exam. Again, you’ll need documentation (as described above) to prove this.

You must have experience working in a sustainable field of work

I believe all they are looking for is for you to explain how you and your company or profession has anything to do with sustainability, environmentalism, or the green building industry. Of course, if you’re an architect or engineer, then you should be able to meet this requirement very easily. If you work for a product manufacturer (i.e. a carpet manufacturer),  then you’ll have a little bit of explaining to do as to how you and your company relate to the green building industry.

You must have attended an education program that addresses green building principles

The GBCI has yet to be absolutely clear about what exactly qualifies as an acceptable education program for the LEED Green Associate exam. I will be asking for clarification from the GBCI very soon, and I’ll update you as soon as I find out.

This is what I’ll be asking:

• Is there a list of acceptable education programs to choose from?
• Can certain college courses count?
• Can these programs be taken online, or only live?
• What about continued education programs at work?
• If you have more questions, please comment below and I’ll ask!

If You Are Eligible for the LEED Green Associate Exam

If you are eligible for the LEED GA exam, you may be wondering exactly the exam is about. Here’s a quick breakdown:

The Green Associate exam will test your knowledge of:

• The LEED Application Process
• Project Site Factors
• Water Management
• Project Systems and Energy Impacts
• Acquisition, Installation and Management of Project Materials
• Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
• Project Surroundings and Public Outreach
• Synergistic Opportunities between various LEED strategies

Here is some more quick info about the exam:

• 2 hour exam
• 100 multiple-choice questions
• computer-based test
• USGBC national members/full-time students: $150, All others: $200.

For more information, please take a look at the Green Associate exam candidate handbook, which can be found on the GBCI website.

What to Study and How to Study for the LEED Green Associate Exam

You should definitely take a look at the Green Associate handbook found on the GBCI website. The handbook will tell you important information about what is covered on the exam and where you can find that information.

In addition, you are always free to use the information on greenexamacademy.com to help you along the way.  On the homepage you’ll find information about you’re the exam, including summaries, tips and charts to help you organize all of the information for you.

I also have published helpful study guide called The Green Associate Exam Walkthrough, which you may find very useful.

Last Note from Pat

If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them below in the comments section, and I’ll do my best to find you the correct answer as soon as I can. Since this is an open forum format website, people in the future with the same question may benefit from you asking yours now – so please don’t hesitate to do so.

Lastly, thank you so much for your support. I wish you the best of luck on your journey!

Kindest regards,

Pat

First of all, I’d like to congratulate you on making a choice to pursue a LEED professional credential. You may not know it, but LEED is quickly becoming an industry norm, and no matter what experience you have in the architecture and construction industry (and even if you have no experience whatsoever), I believe you’re making a wise decision for your career.

Before we begin, I’d just like to introduce myself. My name is Pat, and I passed the LEED AP exam back in March of 2008. Passing the LEED exam was one of the hardest career related tasks I ever had to do. Some people say the LEED exam was harder than the ARE (Architectural Registration Exam), which is a process I plan to begin very soon. Anyways, I started this website as an easy-to-use (and free) resource to make the exam process less of a headache for you and to hopefully be there to answer any questions you may during your journey. Since I started this website in 2008, it has earned over 500,000 visitors and over 3,000,000 page views! I’d like to thank you for adding to those numbers.

Since losing my job at an architectural firm late last year, helping people pass the LEED exam has become my full-time job and passion.

Becoming a LEED Professional in LEED v3

If you have questions about what LEED is all about and how becoming a LEED professional can benefit you, click here.

The LEED credentialing process is a 3-tiered system:

• Tier 1: LEED Green Associate
• Tier 2: LEED AP Specialization
• Tier 3: LEED AP Fellow

The LEED AP Fellow is reserved for elite participants in the LEED community, so we’ll just be talking about the first two tiers: the LEED Green Associate and the LEED AP Specialization paths.

Because you’re new, you can either take a LEED AP Specialization test to become a LEED AP+, or the LEED Green Associate exam to become a LEED GA. Which test you should take depends on your experience and your career paths. Let’s keep on reading to find out more about each exam.

LEED AP Specialization Exams

We’ll talk first about the LEED AP Specialization exams because there is a major eligibility requirement that many people will be unable to meet.

A LEED AP Specialization exam is a two-part exam. Part 1 is actually the LEED Green Associate exam, and part 2 is related to the specialization that you choose.

The specialization part tests you on your green building knowledge within a specific LEED rating system. It’s mainly for the people who will be working on LEED projects in the field, such as architects, engineers, contractors, etc.

After you pass, you will then be able to work on certifying LEED projects in your specialization as the LEED Accredited Professional. Here is a list of the various specialization exams:

• LEED for Building Design & Construction (BD+C)
• LEED for Interior Design & Construction (ID+C)
• LEED for Building Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
• LEED for Homes
• LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)

However, like I said, there is an eligibility requirement to take one of these exams:

You MUST have previous experience with a LEED registered project within three years of your application submittal date. This must be documented in the form of a letter from a supervisor, client, or project manager, etc. and must describe your involvement on the LEED project. This information is uploaded during your application process for the exam.

If you don’t have this experience, then you’ll have to enter LEED v3 by taking the tier 1, LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) exam. You can take the specialty exam later once you become eligible. Click here to go to the LEED Green Associate exam section below.

If You Are Eligible for a LEED AP+ Exam

If you happen to be eligible, you may be wondering which specialty exam you should take. This decision is up to you, and should be based on your career path and the career goals you have. That being said, here is a short description of each specialization exam for your information:

• Building Design & Construction (BD&C): This exam actually covers three different rating systems: New Construction (which includes major renovation), Schools, and Core & Shell.
• Interior Design & Construction (ID&C): This rating system is mainly for tenant spaces that don’t occupy an entire building, i.e. tenant improvement projects.
• Existing Building: Operations & Maintenance (O&M): This rating system is applicable for buildings with commercial occupancies that involve building operations, process & system upgrades, minor space-use changes, facility alterations and additions.
• Homes: This track covers single-family, low-rise multi family (under 4 stories), affordable housing, production, manufactured & modular homes.
• Neighborhood Development (ND): Mainly developmental projects, such as neighborhoods, infill projects and larger mixed use developments.

Not all of them are live yet. In fact, only LEED for Homes and LEED for O&M are available at the moment. BD&C and ID+C are scheduled for September 15th, 2009 and ND in 2010. However, you should begin studying as soon as you feel comfortable about which exam you want to take.

What to Study and How to Study for a LEED Specialty Exam

The LEED AP Specialty exams are all based off of the Reference Guide of the particular rating system you choose. The Reference Guide is the manual that is used when certifying a LEED project, so you’re going to want to pick one up, even if you plan to use a study guide to help you study. It does help to use the Reference Guide along with a study guide at the same time. Reference Guides can be purchased from the USGBC on the publication list via their website.

In addition to what’s located in the Reference Guide, information from the USGBC website and the GBCI website are all fair game for the exam as well. This includes information about the LEED Application Process, Minimum Project Requirements (MPRs), Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs), etc.

As you can probably tell, there is a lot to learn, which is why I recommend using a study guide to supplement your studying. You can check out the study guides for your exam of choice in the left hand side of this website, or by clicking here.

Probably the best way to practice for the exam after you believe you’ve learned what you need to know is by taking practice tests. Again, you can view the best practice exams for each test in the left hand side of this website, or by clicking here.

Lastly, you are free to use any of the free resources found on the homepage of greenexamacademy.com under the category for the specific exam you plan to take. There are helpful tips and charts that are free, which should help you memorize and understand the information even further.

Here is some more info about the exam:

• 2 part exam, 2 hours each (4 hours total)
• The 1st part is actually the Green Associate Exam (see below)
• 100 multiple-choice questions for each part (200 total)
• Computer-based test
• For two-part exam: USGBC national members: $300, All others: $400
• For specialty exam only: $150/$250

For more information, please check out the handbooks which can be found on the GBCI website.

The LEED Green Associate Exam

The LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) exam is the 1st tier in the LEED credentialing process, and is the stepping stone to earning your LEED AP with specialty.

The GA exam is less detailed than the specialty exams, but can cover general green building concepts that span across all LEED rating systems.

The GBCI website states that the Green Associate exam is “for professionals who want to demonstrate green building expertise in non-technical fields of practice…[it] denotes basic knowledge of green design, construction and operations.”

This exam is geared toward the product manufacturers, the marketers, the finance people, students, people in customer service for a large construction firm, etc. It’s also for people who are not yet eligible to take a LEED AP specialty exam.

In order to take the LEED Green Associate exam, you must meet one of the following eligibility requirements:

• You must have previous experience supporting a LEED-registered project, or
• You must have experience working in a sustainable field of work, or
• You must have attended an education program that addresses green building principles.

Your experience must be documented in the form of a letter from a supervisor, client, project manager, or teacher, and describe your involvement. A completion certification from an educational program, or an official transcript will suffice. This information is uploaded during your application process for the exam.

Let’s go through each of these eligibility requirements one-by-one:

You must have previous experience supporting a LEED-registered project

This is self-explanatory. If you’ve worked on a LEED registered project in any way, shape or form – then you qualify for the LEED Green Associate exam. Again, you’ll need documentation (as described above) to prove this.

You must have experience working in a sustainable field of work

I believe all they are looking for is for you to explain how you and your company or profession has anything to do with sustainability, environmentalism, or the green building industry. Of course, if you’re an architect or engineer, then you should be able to meet this requirement very easily. If you work for a product manufacturer (i.e. a carpet manufacturer),  then you’ll have a little bit of explaining to do as to how you and your company relate to the green building industry.

You must have attended an education program that addresses green building principles

The GBCI has yet to be absolutely clear about what exactly qualifies as an acceptable education program for the LEED Green Associate exam. I will be asking for clarification from the GBCI very soon, and I’ll update you as soon as I find out.

This is what I’ll be asking:

• Is there a list of acceptable education programs to choose from?
• Can certain college courses count?
• Can these programs be taken online, or only live?
• What about continued education programs at work?
• If you have more questions, please comment below and I’ll ask!

If You Are Eligible for the LEED Green Associate Exam

If you are eligible for the LEED GA exam, you may be wondering exactly the exam is about. Here’s a quick breakdown:

The Green Associate exam will test your knowledge of:

• The LEED Application Process
• Project Site Factors
• Water Management
• Project Systems and Energy Impacts
• Acquisition, Installation and Management of Project Materials
• Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
• Project Surroundings and Public Outreach
• Synergistic Opportunities between various LEED strategies

Here is some more quick info about the exam:

• 2 hour exam
• 100 multiple-choice questions
• computer-based test
• USGBC national members/full-time students: $150, All others: $200.

For more information, please take a look at the Green Associate exam candidate handbook, which can be found on the GBCI website.

What to Study and How to Study for the LEED Green Associate Exam

You should definitely take a look at the Green Associate handbook found on the GBCI website. The handbook will tell you important information about what is covered on the exam and where you can find that information.

In addition, you are always free to use the information on greenexamacademy.com to help you along the way.  On the homepage you’ll find information about you’re the exam, including summaries, tips and charts to help you organize all of the information for you.

I also have published helpful study guide called The Green Associate Exam Walkthrough, which you may find very useful.

Last Note from Pat

I hope this article has at least pointed you in the right direction and you now have an idea of how you want to participate in LEED version 3, either as a LEED Green Associate or a LEED AP with specialty.

If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them below in the comments section, and I’ll do my best to find you the correct answer as soon as I can. Since this is an open forum format website, people in the future with the same question may benefit from you asking yours now – so please don’t hesitate to do so.

Lastly, thank you so much for your support. I wish you the best of luck on your journey!

Kindest regards,

Pat

Someone who has not yet earned their LEED AP credential and wants to become a LEED AP with specialty will have to take a two-part exam, the first part being the Green Associate exam, and the second specific to the rating system of choice.

FAQs about your existing LEED AP credential:

• What happens to my LEED AP credential now that LEEDv3 has launched?
• Can a Legacy LEED AP still work on LEED v3 projects?
• Do I have to take any more tests to maintain my LEED credential?
• If I choose to take another exam, which exam should I take?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?
• Do I have to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP Specialty exam?
• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?

Back to main FAQ page

The USGBC representative told me that you can work on projects certifying under a different LEED rating system than the one you specialize in, and additionally you’re still able to earn that project a point for Innovation in Design Credit 2: LEED AP.

So, the specialty is just that – a specialty that you can say you are an expert in, which may help you land jobs, hire clients, etc. However, you’re still able to work on other projects under different LEED rating systems.

FAQs about your existing LEED AP credential:

• What happens to my LEED AP credential now that LEEDv3 has launched?
• Can a Legacy LEED AP still work on LEED v3 projects?
• Do I have to take any more tests to maintain my LEED credential?
• If I choose to take another exam, which exam should I take?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?
• Do I have to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP Specialty exam?
• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?

Back to main FAQ page

• Building Design & Construction (BD&C): This exam actually covers three different rating systems: New Construction (which includes major renovation), Schools, and Core & Shell. So, if you plan on mainly working on commercial projects with these descriptions, BD&C is for you.
• Interior Design & Construction (ID&C): This rating system is mainly for tenant spaces that don’t occupy an entire building, i.e. tenant improvement projects. If you mainly do commercial interior work, this one is definitely for you.
• Existing Building: Operations & Maintenance (O&M): This rating system is applicable for buildings with commercial occupancies that involve building operations, process & system upgrades, minor space-use changes, facility alterations and additions.
• Homes: Need I say more? Actually – to be more specific, these are single-family, low-rise multi family (under 4 stories), affordable housing, production, manufactured & modular homes.
• Neighborhood Development (ND): If you work mainly on developmental projects, such as neighborhoods, infill projects and larger mixed use developments, LEED for ND is for you.

The first thing you should do is download the candidate handbook from the GBCI webpage for the exam you’re thinking of taking. The handbook will tell you important information about what is covered on the exam, as well as test taking policies.

Not all of them are live yet. In fact, only LEED for Homes and LEED for O&M are available at the moment. BD&C and ID+C are scheduled for this summer (2009), and ND in 2010.

FAQs about your existing LEED AP credential:

• What happens to my LEED AP credential now that LEEDv3 has launched?
• Can a Legacy LEED AP still work on LEED v3 projects?
• Do I have to take any more tests to maintain my LEED credential?
• If I choose to take another exam, which exam should I take?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?
• Do I have to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP Specialty exam?
• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?

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To answer the question, you don’t have to take any more tests to enter LEED v3, since you’re a Legacy LEED AP. However, taking an exam is one of the options to opt-in to the LEED v3 program. Click here for more information about your exact options.

FAQs about your existing LEED AP credential:

• What happens to my LEED AP credential now that LEEDv3 has launched?
• Can a Legacy LEED AP still work on LEED v3 projects?
• Do I have to take any more tests to maintain my LEED credential?
• If I choose to take another exam, which exam should I take?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?
• Do I have to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP Specialty exam?
• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?

Back to main FAQ page

I have a list of questions I want to ask the USGBC via phone, and this is one of them. I’ll update the answer as soon as I get clarification. Thanks for your patience!

FAQs about your existing LEED AP credential:

• What happens to my LEED AP credential now that LEEDv3 has launched?
• Can a Legacy LEED AP still work on LEED v3 projects?
• Do I have to take any more tests to maintain my LEED credential?
• If I choose to take another exam, which exam should I take?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?
• Do I have to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP Specialty exam?
• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?

Back to main FAQ page

As of July 1st, 2009, your LEED AP credential is now considered a Legacy LEED AP. This shows that you have a credential from one of the previous exams. You now have three options:

Option 1: LEED AP with Specialty – No Exam

You can become a LEED AP with Specialty by enrolling in the new LEED v3 system before June 2011. This involves:

• Agreeing to the Credentialing Maintenance Program (CMP), and
• Signing the Disciplinary Policy, and
• Completing the CMP requirements for the initial 2-year reporting period

Once enrolled, you can then use the BD&C, ID&C, or O&M, Homes or ND (neighborhood development) designations after your name.  In addition, you will have to participate in the CMP after 2 years to maintain your specialty, and pay a $50 fee every two years, starting June 2011 (since you’re a LEED AP, the first 2 year $50 payment from now until 2011 is waived).

Option 2: LEED AP with Specialty – With Exam

Instead of completing the Credentialing Maintenance Program requirements, you can take a specialty exam to earn your LEEDv3 credential. You must pass your exam by June 2011. This involves:

• Agreeing to the Credentialing Maintenance Program (CMP), and
• Signing the Disciplinary Policy, and
• Passing one of the Specialty Exams (BD&C, ID&C, O&M, Homes, ND)

(Just FYI: your existing LEED AP credential qualifies you to take a LEED AP Specialty exam. People who are not LEED APs are required to have experience working on a LEED project as a prerequisite to taking the exam).

After you pass you can then use the BD&C, ID&C, or O&M or ND designations after your name.  In addition, you will have to participate in the CMP after 2 years to maintain your specialty.

Note: A Legacy LEED AP cannot add Homes without proof of work on a LEED for Homes registered project, or a prior LEED for Homes designation. This is because LEED for Homes is a newer designation.

A $150 exam fee will apply for taking the LEED AP Specialty exam of your choice.

Option 3: Do Nothing

If you choose to do nothing, or you did not enroll in LEEDv3 or pass an exam by June 2011, you will remain a Legacy LEED AP. If you choose to opt into LEEDv3 after June 2011, you will have to meet all eligibility requirements and retake the exam.

UPDATE: starting August 3, 2009, you will be able to view your enrollment window through www.GBCI.org > My Credentials. This is where you'll then be able to officially do Option 1 or Option 2 above to become a part of LEED v3.

FAQs about your existing LEED AP credential:

• What happens to my LEED AP credential now that LEEDv3 has launched?
• Can a Legacy LEED AP still work on LEED v3 projects?
• Do I have to take any more tests to maintain my LEED credential?
• If I choose to take another exam, which exam should I take?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?
• Do I have to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP Specialty exam?
• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?

Back to main FAQ page

For previous versions of LEED, it was a “pass one exam and you’re a LEED AP for all tracks” deal, but I believe the rule has changed.

I have a list of questions I want to ask the USGBC via phone, and this is one of them. I’ll update the answer as soon as I get clarification. Thanks for your patience!

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

Not all of them are live yet. In fact, only LEED for Homes and LEED for O&M are available at the moment. BD&C and ID+C are scheduled for this summer (2009), and ND in 2010.

You should also purchase a LEED Reference Guide for the exam you’re taking as well. It’s where most of the questions on the exam come from, and is the guide that you will be using when certifying a LEED project in the future.

In addition, you are always free to use the information on greenexamacademy.com to help you along the way.  On the homepage you’ll find information about your specific exam, including summaries, tips and charts to help you organize all of the information for you.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

I’m going to ask the USGBC if there are other ways to become eligible for the exam, but as far as I know – you need that experience on a registered project in order to take the exam.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

You MUST have previous experience with a LEED registered project within three years of your application submittal date.

This must be documented in the form of a letter from a supervisor, client, or project manager, etc. and must describe your involvement on the LEED project.

For more information about eligibility requirements, please take a look at the O+M exam candidate handbook, which can be found on the GBCI website.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exam?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

• Building Design & Construction (BD&C): This exam actually covers three different rating systems: New Construction (which includes major renovation), Schools, and Core & Shell.
• Interior Design & Construction (ID&C): This rating system is mainly for tenant spaces that don’t occupy an entire building, i.e. tenant improvement projects.
• Existing Building: Operations & Maintenance (O&M): This rating system is applicable for buildings with commercial occupancies that involve building operations, process & system upgrades, minor space-use changes, facility alterations and additions.
• Homes: This track covers single-family, low-rise multi family (under 4 stories), affordable housing, production, manufactured & modular homes.
• Neighborhood Development (ND): Mainly developmental projects, such as neighborhoods, infill projects and larger mixed use developments.

Not all of them are live yet. In fact, only LEED for Homes and LEED for O&M are available at the moment. BD&C and ID+C are scheduled for September 15, 2009 and ND in 2010.

As you can tell, these exams are more for the people who are out on the field and working on the LEED certified projects. These are for the LEED APs who will be a part of a project team, assisting the team by streamlining and supporting the LEED Application Process. Architects, contractors, engineers, etc. are all likely test-takers for a LEED specialty exam.

The specialty exam will test your knowledge of the details in the corresponding Reference guide.

Here is some more info about the exam:

• 2 part exam, 2 hours each (4 hours total)
• The 1st part is actually the Green Associate Exam
• 100 multiple-choice questions for each part (200 total)
• Computer-based test
• For two-part exam: USGBC national members: $300, All others: $400
• For specialty exam only: $150/$250

For more information, please check out the handbooks which can be found on the GBCI website.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

In addition, you are always free to use the information on greenexamacademy.com to help you along the way.  On the homepage you’ll find information about you’re the exam, including summaries, tips and charts to help you organize all of the information for you.

I also have published helpful study guide called The Green Associate Exam Walkthrough, which you may find very useful.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

You have to fulfill at least one of the following:

• You must have previous experience supporting a LEED-registered project
• You must have experience working in a sustainable field of work
• You must have attended an education program that addresses green building principles.

Your experience must be documented in the form of a letter from a supervisor, client, project manager, or teacher, and describe your involvement. A completion certification from an educational program, or an official transcript will suffice. This information is uploaded during your application process for the exam.

Let’s go through each of these eligibility requirements one-by-one:

You must have previous experience supporting a LEED-registered project

This is self-explanatory. If you’ve worked on a LEED registered project in any way, shape or form – then you qualify for the LEED Green Associate exam. Again, you’ll need documentation (as described above) to prove this.

You must have experience working in a sustainable field of work

I believe all they are looking for is for you to explain how you and your company or profession has anything to do with sustainability, environmentalism, or the green building industry. Of course, if you’re an architect or engineer, then you should be able to meet this requirement very easily. If you work for a product manufacturer (i.e. a carpet manufacturer),  then you’ll have a little bit of explaining to do as to how you and your company relate to the green building industry.

You must have attended an education program that addresses green building principles

The GBCI has yet to be absolutely clear about what exactly qualifies as an acceptable education program for the LEED Green Associate exam. I will be asking for clarification from the GBCI very soon, and I’ll update you as soon as I find out.

This is what I’ll be asking:

• Is there a list of acceptable education programs to choose from?
• Can certain college courses count?
• Can these programs be taken online, or only live?
• What about continued education programs at work?
• If you have more questions, please comment below and I’ll ask!

For more information about eligibility requirements, please take a look at the Green Associate exam candidate handbook, which can be found on the GBCI website.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page

The GBCI website states that the Green Associate exam is “for professionals who want to demonstrate green building expertise in non-technical fields of practice…[it] denotes basic knowledge of green design, construction and operations.”

This exam is for the product manufacturers, the marketers, the finance people, students, people in customer service for a large construction firm, etc. It’s also for people who are not yet eligible to take a LEED AP specialty exam.

The Green Associate exam will test your knowledge of:

• The LEED Application Process
• Project Site Factors
• Water Management
• Project Systems and Energy Impacts
• Acquisition, Installation and Management of Project Materials
• Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
• Project Surroundings and Public Outreach
• Synergistic Opportunities between various LEED strategies

The information is less detailed than what is required to know for the specialty exams, but it covers information that can span across all of the various LEED Rating Systems.

Here is some more quick info about the exam:

• 2 hour exam
• 100 multiple-choice questions
• computer-based test
• USGBC national members/full-time students: $150, All others: $200.

For more information, please take a look at the Green Associate exam candidate handbook, which can be found on the GBCI website.

FAQs about your LEED credential:

• What EXACTLY is the Credential Maintenance Program for LEED?
• Should I take the LEED Green Associate exam, or a LEED AP specialty exam?

Green Associate Exam

• What is the LEED Green Associate exam about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take the LEED Green Associate exam?
• How do I prepare for the LEED Green Associate exam?
• Can I take the Green Associate exam now, and take a specialty exam later?

LEED AP Specialty Exam

• What are the LEED AP specialty exams all about?
• What are the eligibility requirements to take a LEED AP specialty exams?
• What can I do if I’m not eligible to take a LEED specialty exam?
• How do I prepare for a LEED AP specialty exam?
• If I pass one exam track, can I work on projects being certified under a different rating system?

Back to main FAQ page