LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Test

While the USGBC does not enforce formal prerequisites, it strongly recommends that candidates have prior experience working on a LEED BD+C project team. The exam content is advanced and assumes practical knowledge of the design and construction process, sustainability concepts, and the LEED credit system. Most successful candidates are professionals with several years of experience in architecture, engineering, construction, or sustainability consulting.

The LEED Green Associate is a foundational credential demonstrating core green building knowledge across all LEED rating systems. The LEED AP BD+C is a specialty credential that delves deeply into the technical, strategic, and administrative complexities specific to new construction and major renovation projects. It is an advanced, practitioner-level certification requiring detailed knowledge of credit calculations, documentation, and integrative strategies unique to the BD+C rating system.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 2 hours. It is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers or via online proctoring. The scoring is based on a scaled score, with a passing mark set by the USGBC. The questions are divided into two parts: Part 1: LEED Project Experience (35 questions) and Part 2: LEED BD+C Technical Knowledge (65 questions). You must pass both parts to earn the credential.

The LEED AP BD+C credential is valid for two years. To maintain it, credential holders must earn 30 continuing education (CE) hours within that two-year cycle, with specific hour requirements in LEED-specific, BD+C-specific, and other green building education categories. This ensures professionals stay current with evolving standards, such as updates to the LEED rating system.

The BD+C rating system applies to a wide range of project types including new construction, core and shell developments, schools, retail, hospitality, data centers, warehouses, and major renovations. It is designed for projects where the scope of work is primarily focused on the design and construction of the building's structure and envelope, along with core interior systems.