The LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) is a professional credential offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI).
It demonstrates foundational knowledge of green building practices, sustainable design, construction, and operations based on the LEED rating system.

• Students and fresh graduates interested in sustainability
• Architects, engineers, interior designers, and planners
• Construction managers and contractors
• Facility managers and real estate professionals
• Anyone seeking a career in sustainable building or environmental consulting

• Gain global recognition in sustainability and green building
• Enhance your resume with a credential valued by employers worldwide
• Build credibility with clients and organizations pursuing LEED-certified projects
• Foundation step toward LEED AP specialization
• Opens career opportunities in green design, construction, and facility operations

There are no formal prerequisites.

• Recommended: Basic knowledge of sustainability, construction, or building operations.
• Students, working professionals, and career changers are all eligible.

• Study the LEED Green Associate Exam Guide from USGBC
• Review the LEED Core Concepts Guide
• Use practice exams & flashcards for key terms and concepts
• Attend LEED GA exam prep courses (offered by Green International and other providers)
• Focus on LEED categories: Location & Transportation, Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy & Atmosphere, Materials & Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority

• Register online through the USGBC/GBCI website
• Create a free USGBC account
• Pay the exam fee
• Schedule your exam via Prometric testing centers or online proctoring

• Format: Computer-based, proctored exam
• Questions: 100 multiple-choice
• Duration: 2 hours (plus 10-minute tutorial & exit survey)
• Passing Score: 170/200 (scaled score)

• USGBC members: $200
• Non-members: $250
• Students: $100 (discounted rate)

• You earn the LEED Green Associate credential
• You can immediately start using “LEED Green Associate” or “LEED GA” after your name
• Your credential is listed in the USGBC/GBCI professional directory

Yes. It is valid for 2 years from the date you pass the exam.

To maintain/renew your credential, you must:

• • Earn 15 Continuing Education (CE) hours within 2 years (including 3 hours in LEED-specific topics), OR
  • Retake and pass the LEED GA exam

✅ Yes. After achieving LEED GA, you can pursue LEED AP with Specialty (e.g., BD+C, ID+C, O+M, ND, Homes).
This is the advanced level credential focusing on specialized LEED project work.

• Expands career options in sustainable design & construction
• Provides recognition as a green building professional
• Strengthens your role in organizations pursuing LEED project certification
• Enhances employability in industries focused on sustainability and energy efficiency

❌ No. You do not need prior experience in construction or sustainability to sit for the exam.

✅ Yes. You can take it:

• At a Prometric test center worldwide, OR
• Online (remote proctoring) with a webcam and stable internet

Yes. You can retake the exam up to 3 times within a 12-month period (fees apply for each attempt).

✅ Yes. After passing, you can officially use “LEED Green Associate” or “LEED GA” on business cards, LinkedIn, email signatures, and resumes.

• Valid for 2 years
• Must be maintained with CE hours or by retaking the exam

• LEED GA is the entry-level sustainability credential → ideal for students, career starters, and professionals exploring green careers.
• It requires conceptual understanding, not deep technical expertise.
• Many professionals use it as a stepping stone to LEED AP, which requires project-based specialization.