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CNU-A Congress for New Urbanism Accreditation Practice Test

139 questions available

New Urbanism design credential covering traditional neighborhood design, transit-oriented development, walkability, and sustainable community planning principles. Administered by Congress for the New Urbanism. Key domains include A Crisis of Place and the Alternative of the New Urbanism., Architecture, Local Culture and Community Identity, Boundaries & Centers, Economics & Mobility and Civic Institutions, Public Space, & Codes. The exam consists of 103 questions over 210 minutes.

Certification exam
103 Exam questions
3 hours 30 minutes Time Limit
Practice bank
139 Practice Questions
2 hours 19 minutes Practice Time
Start Practice
The bank 139 Practice questions checked against the official objectives.
qf-import139 practice questions71 answers with a checkable referenceBlueprint 1.0Bank updated 2026-05-04

Sample Questions

Try a few questions to see what the full exam is like.

71 of 139 answers carry a checkable reference.

Charter of the New Urbanism Principles

a desert resort town must respond to heat, water limits, and isolated gated subdivisions. Given shaded historic streets around a plaza and tourism-driven parking demands, which recommendation best applies civic identity and democracy in a New Urbanist plan?

Neighborhood, District, and Corridor

a proposed TND infill site must respond to neighbors want a park but oppose corner shops. Given a school and library within a short walk and stormwater must be handled on site, which recommendation best applies corridor as connector in a New Urbanist plan?

Charter of the New Urbanism Principles

a university edge district must respond to student housing spillover and demolition of small houses. Given frequent buses and corner retail and single-family zoning still dominates, which recommendation best applies equity and anti-exclusion in a New Urbanist plan?

Region: Metropolis, City, and Town

A CNU-A candidate is reviewing a bus rapid transit region, where the main challenges are station areas are zoned for low-density retail. Which statement best reflects the New Urbanist principle of multiple centers?

Charter of the New Urbanism Principles

A CNU-A candidate is reviewing a desert resort town, where the main challenges are heat, water limits, and isolated gated subdivisions. Which statement best reflects the New Urbanist principle of equity and anti-exclusion?

Why This Certification Opens Doors

New Urbanism addresses critical real-world challenges: suburban sprawl, social isolation, environmental degradation, and car dependency. A CNU-A credential signifies more than theoretical knowledge; it represents the practical ability to design and advocate for places that improve public health, foster economic resilience, strengthen social capital, and reduce carbon footprints. Accredited professionals are equipped to translate principles into actionable plans, codes, and built projects that directly enhance the quality of life in communities.

Exam Blueprint

01A Crisis of Place and the Alternative of the New Urbanism.
02Architecture, Local Culture and Community Identity
03Boundaries & Centers, Economics & Mobility
04Civic Institutions, Public Space, & Codes
05Definitions & Traditional Neighborhood Planning Principles
06Diversity, Infill & Greenfields
07Ecology & Built Legacy
08Green Building & Historic Preservation
09Implementing New Urbanism
10Pedestrian Shed, Transit & Highways
11Public Realm, Pedestrian Life & Public Safety

Exam Details CNU-ACCRED | 3 hours 30 minutes

Exam Code CNU-ACCRED
Vendor qf-import
Time Limit 3 hours 30 minutes
Exam questions 103

Frequently Asked Questions

I am not a designer or planner. Is this credential relevant for me?

Absolutely. The CNU-A is valuable for anyone involved in the development process, including real estate developers, public officials, community activists, lawyers, and engineers. Understanding the principles allows for more effective collaboration, advocacy, and decision-making across all disciplines that shape the built environment.

How is the exam structured and how long is it?

The exam is typically a timed, computer-based test consisting of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions. The exact number of questions and time allowance are set by CNU and should be confirmed on their official website, as formats can be updated. It is designed to be completed in a single sitting.

What are the primary study resources recommended?

The essential resources are the Charter of the New Urbanism, CNU's official study guide or resource list, and key foundational texts like 'Suburban Nation' and 'The New Urbanism.' CNU often provides a detailed reading list and may offer study workshops or webinars. Analyzing built projects and form-based codes is also highly recommended.

What is the process to maintain the accreditation?

The CNU-A credential requires ongoing professional engagement. This is typically fulfilled through continuing education credits (CEUs) earned by attending CNU events, participating in chapter activities, completing relevant courses, or contributing to the field through publishing or teaching. Specific requirements are detailed by CNU.

How does this credential interact with other professional licenses (AICP, AIA, PE)?

The CNU-A is a complementary, specialized credential. It does not replace state-issued professional licenses but adds a specific, recognized expertise in New Urbanist practice. It demonstrates a deep commitment to this particular philosophy within your licensed profession, enhancing your profile and credibility on relevant projects.