LEED AP BD+C
LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction)
The LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction) demonstrates advanced expertise in the LEED v4 BD+C rating systems applicable to new construction, major renovations, schools, healthcare facilities, hospitality, data centers, and retail. LEED AP BD+C holders can serve as project administrators, credit coordinators, and green building advocates on construction projects seeking LEED certification.
LEED AP BD+C Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction) |
| Governing Body | GBCI / USGBC |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Time Limit | 2 hours |
| Passing Score | 170/200 |
| Exam Fee | $350 USD |
| Category | Professional Certifications |
| C3RT App Available On | iPhone, iPad, and Mac |
| Official Source | GBCI / USGBC official website ↗ |
LEED AP BD+C Content Areas and Domains
Domain areas are sourced from the GBCI / USGBC content outline.
Topics Covered
- ✓ Project Surroundings & Public Outreach — integrative process, project team roles, certification pathways
- ✓ Sustainable Site Design — construction activity pollution prevention, site assessment, open space, stormwater
- ✓ Water Conservation — indoor water use reduction, outdoor water use, cooling tower, water metering
- ✓ Energy Efficiency — energy commissioning, optimize energy performance, on-site renewable, enhanced refrigerant
- ✓ Sourcing of Materials — building life cycle impact, environmental product declarations (EPDs), low-emitting materials
- ✓ Indoor Environmental Quality — enhanced ventilation, construction IAQ management, daylight, occupant comfort
- ✓ Innovation & Regional Priority — innovation credits, LEED AP credits, regional priority credits
How C3RT Helps You Pass the LEED AP BD+C
Adaptive Practice
Questions adapt to your weak areas automatically so every study session on the LEED AP BD+C is time well spent.
Diagnostic Mocks
Full-length mock exams timed to the real LEED AP BD+C format with detailed score breakdowns by topic.
Mistake Bank
Every wrong answer is saved for targeted re-drill. The system resurfaces your mistakes until they stick.
Native on iOS & Mac
Built with SwiftUI, not a web wrapper. Instant load, offline support, hardware-speed rendering.
LEED AP BD+C Frequently Asked Questions
What does LEED AP BD+C stand for?
LEED AP BD+C stands for LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction). It is administered by GBCI / USGBC.
Who administers the LEED AP BD+C?
The LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction) (LEED AP BD+C) is administered by GBCI / USGBC. For official information, visit the GBCI / USGBC website.
How many questions is the LEED AP BD+C?
The LEED AP BD+C consists of 100 questions. Candidates are given 2 hours to complete the exam.
What is the passing score for the LEED AP BD+C?
The passing score for the LEED AP BD+C is 170/200, as set by GBCI / USGBC. Scoring methodology and passing standards may be updated periodically. Always verify current requirements with the governing body.
How much does the LEED AP BD+C exam cost?
The LEED AP BD+C exam fee is $350 USD. This fee is set by GBCI / USGBC and may vary by testing centre, region, or membership status. Additional fees for registration or rescheduling may apply.
What project experience is required for LEED AP BD+C?
LEED AP BD+C requires documented experience on a LEED project in the past 3 years. Alternatively, candidates can document professional experience in sustainable design and construction. Unlike LEED GA (no experience required), LEED AP credentials require demonstrable involvement in green building work — either on a LEED registered project or in the green building industry.
What is the LEED BD+C commissioning requirement?
Commissioning (Cx) is a quality assurance process that verifies building systems are designed, installed, and perform as intended. LEED BD+C has a mandatory Fundamental Commissioning prerequisite and an Enhanced Commissioning credit worth additional points. The commissioning authority must be independent of the design team for enhanced commissioning. LEED AP BD+C tests commissioning roles, scope, and documentation in depth.
What is an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)?
An EPD is a standardized disclosure of a building product's environmental impact over its lifecycle — raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, and end of life. LEED v4 encourages EPDs through the Building Product Disclosure and Optimization credits in Materials & Resources. EPDs help design teams select lower-impact materials and earn LEED points.
How long is LEED AP BD+C valid?
LEED AP credentials must be maintained every 2 years by earning 30 Continuing Education (CE) hours — 6 of which must be LEED-specific. Failure to maintain results in credential suspension and ultimately lapsing. GBCI offers several approved CE providers and LEED AP holders can also earn CE through GBCI's volunteer program.
How difficult is the LEED AP BD+C exam?
The LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction) exam is significantly more challenging than the LEED GA. It consists of two parts — a LEED GA part and a BD+C specialty part — and tests deep knowledge of green building strategies, credit calculations, and project-specific application. Pass rates are lower than the LEED GA, estimated in the 50–65% range for the specialty portion.
What are the eligibility requirements for the LEED AP BD+C?
Candidates must have documented experience on a LEED-registered or certified project within the three years prior to their exam application. This experience requirement distinguishes the AP credential from the entry-level LEED GA.
How long should I prepare for the LEED AP BD+C exam?
Eight to sixteen weeks of focused preparation is typical, especially for the BD+C specialty portion. Deep study of the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, credit intents, requirements, and calculations is essential.
What career value does the LEED AP BD+C provide?
LEED AP BD+C is highly valued in architecture, engineering, and construction. It often accelerates hiring decisions, supports project LEED credit documentation (the credential itself earns a LEED point for projects), and can increase earning potential in the AEC industry.
What is the retake policy for the LEED AP BD+C?
After a first failure, a 30-day waiting period applies. After a second consecutive failure, a 90-day waiting period is required before retesting again.
How long does LEED AP BD+C certification last?
LEED AP credentials are valid for two years and require 30 continuing education hours (including 6 LEED-specific hours) per two-year reporting period to maintain.
How does LEED AP BD+C compare to LEED AP ID+C?
BD+C focuses on new commercial building construction and major renovations, covering structural, MEP, and site systems. ID+C (Interior Design and Construction) focuses on interior fit-out projects and tenant improvements. The right specialty depends on your project work — AEC professionals on ground-up projects typically pursue BD+C, while interior designers and commercial interiors specialists pursue ID+C.
C3RT is a native iOS and macOS exam preparation platform covering the LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction) (LEED AP BD+C), a Professional Certifications certification, administered by GBCI / USGBC. C3RT is not affiliated with or endorsed by GBCI / USGBC. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective organisations. For official exam registration, eligibility requirements, and content outlines, visit the GBCI / USGBC official website ↗ .