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Many people have gone green by seeking an official certification to prove their home’s sustainability — the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. As a result, LEED-certified homes offer many benefits, including improved indoor air quality, reduced energy and water consumption, leading to lower utility bills. Additionally, resilience in adverse weather and a net-positive impact on the homeowner’s life and community. These buildings often have a higher resale value, as green-certified buildings are 10 to 31% valuable.
In light of these benefits, the demand for green architects and contractors has skyrocketed in recent years. Homeowners want certified professionals who specialize in green operations and design specialists who know how to construct a building worthy of a LEED certification. Thus, many industry professionals are seeking LEED accreditation. In fact, LEED-certified projects across all certification levels are designed to cut down over 120 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Buildings that are LEED-certified generally use 25% less energy, lower carbon emissions by 34% and consume 11% less water.
What Is LEED Certification?
Many people confuse LEED certification with LEED accreditation. The former applies to buildings, while the latter can only apply to humans. Those who do earn a LEED credential join an international community of professionals committed to building green, sustainable buildings. Over 203,000 professionals worldwide hold a LEED credential, proving its global recognition in sustainable design.
In studying for the exam, they’ll gain the foundational knowledge they need to compete for better-paying jobs within the industry. Plus, they’ll have a working knowledge of green building concepts regarding water, energy, air quality and more. There are two types of professional credentials for which you may apply.
A great example to follow is the USGBC. The LEED developer’s headquarters employs specialized monitors to assess indoor air quality, gathering data on carbon dioxide, VOCs, particulate matter, temperature, relative humidity and various other factors.
LEED Accreditation Tier I: LEED Green Associate
LEED Green Associate certification is an entry-level credential that needs passing one test. Those who do will have an up-to-date understanding of current green building principles and practices. Moreover, they’re committed to furthering their career and dedicated to their professional future.Â
There are no eligibility requirements to sit for the LEED Green Associate exam. Yet, the U.S. Green Business Certification Inc. recommends that candidates have some experience with green building concepts through educational courses, volunteering or work before testing. This exposure will increase your chances of passing the exam, which costs $100 to $250 to take. The current pass rate for the LEED Green Associate exam hovers around 85% and many test-takers complete a four-week self-paced study program before registering.
LEED Accreditation Tier II: LEED AP
Once you’ve achieved associate status, you may consider applying and testing for LEED AP accreditation. This credential is an advanced qualification for sustainability professionals and distinguishes those with more comprehensive and detailed expertise in a particular LEED rating system. Plus, you’ll gain expertise in a particular LEED rating system. This tier is especially valued by employers looking to lead large-scale green projects under LEED version 4.1 or the latest LEED v5 framework.
There are five different specialties within this system:
- LEED AP Building Design and Construction: This specialty suits professionals with expertise in the design and construction of green buildings. Typically, those who work in the commercial, residential and healthcare sectors apply to be LEED certified with this specialty.
- LEED AP Operations and Maintenance: It distinguishes professionals looking to impact existing buildings through more efficient operations and maintenance. Those with interest in reducing environmental impact and improving performance may grow their passions with an O+M specialty.
- LEED AP Interior Design and Construction: It is an excellent choice for professionals who specialize in creating sustainable, healthy and productive workspaces. Often, their work involves designing and constructing commercial interiors and residential spaces.
- LEED AP Neighborhood Development: It applies to individuals participating in the design and development of communities. Their work may include making neighborhoods walkable or designing green spaces.
- LEED AP Homes: It is a specialty best suits for those involved in residential construction and design. Their focus includes building healthy, durable homes that needs fewer resources and produce less waste.Â
Once you choose your specialty, you may register for the AP exam and specialty test — from $400 to $550. The cost of a specialty-only exam is $250 to $350. Preparation for this exam often includes mock exams, GBCI study bundles and workshops hosted by LEED-accredited institutions.
Study Up
Regardless of how much experience you have with green building and design concepts, it’s wise to study before taking your exam. So, take a few online courses or a practice test through the U.S. Green Building Council or enroll in a four-week exam study plan to prepare yourself. The council also offers study guides that include sample questions and study references and you can even register for an exam prep workshop in your local community.
Once you feel confident, register for the exam, go to the test center on the day of and take the exam. You’ll receive your results within 72 hours. If you pass, you can add your new credentials to your resume. Just be sure to maintain your accreditation by completing 30 continuing-education courses every two years. Otherwise, you could loose your accreditation. New continuing education options include live webinars, field experience modules and on-demand content to help you stay current with evolving LEED versions.
LEED for a Better Future
In summary, passing your exams and earning LEED accreditation is a noteworthy accomplishment on your path to becoming a green industry professional. Gaining a better understanding of sustainable practices and design concepts will make you a vital asset to any team. Plus, earning your credentials will help you build a more sustainable future, benefiting you, your organization, the industry and the entire planet. As global efforts to mitigate climate change intensify, LEED-accredited professionals are important in shaping healthier, more resilient buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is LEED V5 and How Is It Different From Previous Versions?
LEED v5 is the most recent version of the LEED rating system, designed to address climate change more aggressively. It introduces performance-based metrics, focuses on whole-life carbon and integrates social equity as a core design principle. Unlike previous versions, v5 rewards operational transparency, measurable carbon reduction and community impact.
What Is LEED Certification vs LEED Accreditation?
LEED certification refers to a building that meets criteria set by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for sustainability and efficiency. LEED accreditation is for individuals who have passed an exam to show expertise in sustainable design, construction and operations.
How Much Does It Cost to Get LEED Accredited?
The Green Associate exam typically costs between $100 and $250. LEED AP exams range from $400 to $550, depending on whether you are registering for a full or specialty-only exam.
What Is the LEED Certification Process for Buildings?
Structures assessed according to particular LEED rating systems earn points based on various criteria. These include energy efficiency, materials used, site sustainability and the quality of the indoor environment.
Can I Get LEED Accreditation Online?
Yes. Study materials, practice exams and exam registration are all available online through USGBC and GBCI. You can also take some exams in a remote format via secure proctoring platforms.
How Do LEED-Certified Buildings Impact the Environment?
LEED buildings consume 25% less energy, reduce CO2 emissions by 34% and use 11% less water. They also contribute to better occupant health, lower operational costs and increased property value.
Which LEED AP Specialty Should You Choose?
Choose your LEED AP specialty based on your focus — BD+C for new construction, O+M for existing buildings, ID+C for interior projects. Additionally, ND is for community planning and Homes for residential design.
About The Author
Evelyn is the founder and editor-in-chief of Renovated with over 5 years of experience immersed in researching and writing on interior design, construction, and renovation. She is a passionate advocate for improving mental health and safety in the construction industry. When she's not writing, you can find her reading at coffee shops in Lancaster.
Her insights have resonated far beyond Renovated, gracing publications like the National Association of Realtors, Construction Executive, Fieldwire, DecorMatters, and Renewable Energy Magazine.
For more sharp takes on design, construction, and everything in between, you can follow Evelyn on Twitter at @renovatedmag.
