Sustainable building trends have become more prevalent in Canada's construction industry. The LEED certification is a recognized international building standard you must master if you are an architect or a building professional interested in sustainable architecture in Canada. Our step-by-step guide discusses all the aspects of the LEED certification in Canada. Ready to get started and contribute to a greener future? Visit for more information LEED Green Associate exam course

What is LEED certification?

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, an international building rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and adapted for Canada by the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC). LEED is a framework for designing, constructing, and operating sustainable, high-performance buildings that are healthy for the occupants and the environment.

LEED focuses on six key strategies:

Earning LEED accreditation can be valuable for building professionals in Canada, such as architects, engineers, and project managers. Obtaining the LEED demonstrates that architects and building professionals have the necessary expertise in sustainable buildings to work on high-profile LEED projects and other green initiatives, such as the net-zero buildings in Canada.

How to become LEED certified in Canada?

The LEED certification can be a valuable career credential for architecture professionals, students, project developers, homeowners, and interior designers. Discover the step-by-step process for obtaining LEED certification in Canada.

1. Training and proven experience

It is relevant to mention the two credentials you can find before discussing the requirements for LEED certification: the LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) and the LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with a specialty.

The LEED Green Associate (LEED GA)

To be eligible to apply for the LEED Green Associate certification, you should provide proven LEED job experience or study a LEED project. This credential requires no education or experience in the field. Indeed, even with no architectural degree, you can still get the credentials with proper preparation.

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with a specialty

To become an accredited LEED professional, you must hold a relevant degree and work experience in the sustainable building industry.

2. Proper exam preparation

CaGBC offers LEED certification and training programs in both English and French in Canada to help candidates pass. The training programs include practice exams with updated theoretical questions, study guides, instruction, and registration tips.

3. Registration for the LEED

To register for the LEED certification exam or renew any related credentials, we recommend you visit the USGBC website and create an account. LEED candidates can select their preferred location, date, and time for the exam. Candidates can also take the exam at a Prometric test center or remotely online if they prefer online tests.

The LEED is a 2-hour multiple choice exam that assesses the candidate's ability to understand and support green building practices and LEED principles. LEED strongly advises exam writers to be familiar with green building concepts in real-life scenarios, such as green roofing systems to promote vegetation. It may involve topics about the LEED process and objectives, location and transportation, sustainable sites, water efficiency systems, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental and project surroundings.

5. Maintenance of credentials

To maintain and renew the credential, all LEED professionals must complete hours of continuing education within two years, beginning from the date you earned your credential.

To earn continuing education hours, you can participate in educational courses, gain experience on LEED projects, and volunteer in green building and circular economy fields.

Key Resources for LEED Certification in Canada

Visit the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) website for more information on the certification process and the LEED certification guide.