USGBC LEED AP BD+C Practice Exams
Last updated on Oct 24,2026- Exam Code: LEED AP BD+C
- Exam Name: LEED AP Building Design + Construction
- Certification Provider: USGBC
- Latest update: Oct 24,2026
Question #181
According to the Integrative Process Credit, the discovery phase of energy-related systems should identify
- A . ventilation rates
- B . functional performance tests
- C . thermal comfort ranges
- D . transportation options
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the discovery phase of energy-related systems should identify ventilation rates, along with other factors such as building orientation, envelope attributes, lighting levels, plug and process loads, and programmatic and operational parameters1. These factors should be used to create a preliminary “simple box” energy model to evaluate the energy performance of the building and explore potential strategies to reduce energy use1. The other options are not relevant for the discovery phase of energy-related systems. Functional performance tests are part of the implementation phase1. Thermal comfort ranges are related to indoor environmental quality2. Transportation options are related to sustainable sites3.
Reference: IP Credit Integrative Process, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction4123
A
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the discovery phase of energy-related systems should identify ventilation rates, along with other factors such as building orientation, envelope attributes, lighting levels, plug and process loads, and programmatic and operational parameters1. These factors should be used to create a preliminary “simple box” energy model to evaluate the energy performance of the building and explore potential strategies to reduce energy use1. The other options are not relevant for the discovery phase of energy-related systems. Functional performance tests are part of the implementation phase1. Thermal comfort ranges are related to indoor environmental quality2. Transportation options are related to sustainable sites3.
Reference: IP Credit Integrative Process, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction4123
Question #182
A luxury hotel project is in the design phase and is located on a scenic waterfront. It is one point away from attaining LEED Platinum certification. The LEED AP is recommending that the team pursue Innovation Credit, Innovation, Option 3. Additional Strategies.
Which of the following credits would be desirable considering the location of the project?
- A . Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Optimize Energy Performance, Exemplary Performance
- B . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views, Exemplary Performance
- C . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Acoustic Performance, Exemplary Performance
- D . Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning, Exemplary Performance
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The LEED Platinum certification requires the project to achieve exemplary performance in at least one credit that allows it, as specified in the LEED Reference Guide1. One of the credits that meets this criterion is the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, which focuses on providing healthy and comfortable indoor environments for occupants. The credit has two options: Quality Views and Enhanced Commissioning. Quality Views requires the project to have windows that provide views of natural scenery or water bodies, which can enhance the well-being and satisfaction of occupants.
Enhanced Commissioning requires the project to have a comprehensive commissioning plan that ensures all systems are properly installed, tested, and operated before occupancy. Both options can help reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and create a positive sensory experience for occupants.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide v4
LEED Platinum Certification – LD Products
LEED Accreditation | LEED Certification & Credentials Overview – GBES
B
Explanation:
The LEED Platinum certification requires the project to achieve exemplary performance in at least one credit that allows it, as specified in the LEED Reference Guide1. One of the credits that meets this criterion is the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, which focuses on providing healthy and comfortable indoor environments for occupants. The credit has two options: Quality Views and Enhanced Commissioning. Quality Views requires the project to have windows that provide views of natural scenery or water bodies, which can enhance the well-being and satisfaction of occupants.
Enhanced Commissioning requires the project to have a comprehensive commissioning plan that ensures all systems are properly installed, tested, and operated before occupancy. Both options can help reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and create a positive sensory experience for occupants.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide v4
LEED Platinum Certification – LD Products
LEED Accreditation | LEED Certification & Credentials Overview – GBES
Question #183
Landscape irrigation practices consume large quantities of potable water. By evaluating the project’s outdoor water budget and irrigation water demand early in the design process in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction project teams will be able to
- A . earn Water Efficiency Credit, Water Metering
- B . earn Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management
- C . estimate and optimize water use in landscape designs
- D . estimate and optimize water use in outdoor fountains and pools
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The intent of the Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction is to reduce outdoor water consumption by either eliminating the need for irrigation or reducing the irrigation demand by at least 30% from the baseline. This prerequisite requires project teams to evaluate the project’s outdoor water budget and irrigation water demand using the EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool or a local equivalent. This will help project teams to estimate and optimize water use in landscape designs by selecting appropriate plant species and irrigation system efficiency.
Reference: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Outdoor Water Use Reduction Credits in
LEED v4, Part Two: LEED v4 BD+C Outdoor Water Reduction and Related Credits
C
Explanation:
The intent of the Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction is to reduce outdoor water consumption by either eliminating the need for irrigation or reducing the irrigation demand by at least 30% from the baseline. This prerequisite requires project teams to evaluate the project’s outdoor water budget and irrigation water demand using the EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool or a local equivalent. This will help project teams to estimate and optimize water use in landscape designs by selecting appropriate plant species and irrigation system efficiency.
Reference: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Outdoor Water Use Reduction Credits in
LEED v4, Part Two: LEED v4 BD+C Outdoor Water Reduction and Related Credits
Question #184
An owner has requested that the project team redesign a large office building. As part of the redesign, the owner would like to move the main entrance to the opposite side of the building.
Achievement of which credit may be affected by the move?
- A . Location and Transportation Credit, High-Priority Site
- B . Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection
- C . Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses
- D . Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Achievement of the Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses may be affected by the move of the main entrance to the opposite side of the building. This is because the credit requires that the project be located within a minimum density area and within walking distance of diverse uses1. The walking distance is measured from a main functional entry of the project building to the diverse use entry1. If the main functional entry is moved, the distance to the diverse uses may change and affect the credit achievement. The other credits are not affected by the move of the main entrance, as they are based on the location of the project site, not the building entry. The Location and Transportation Credit, High-Priority Site rewards projects that are located on sites that are previously developed, infill, or adjacent to existing development2. The Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection rewards projects that are located on sites that do not contain sensitive land features such as prime farmland, wetlands, or habitats3. The Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location rewards projects that are located within the boundary of a LEED for Neighborhood Development certified plan4.
Reference:
• Surrounding density and diverse uses, p. 1
• High-priority site, p. 1
• Sensitive land protection, p. 1
• LEED for neighborhood development location, p. 1
C
Explanation:
Achievement of the Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses may be affected by the move of the main entrance to the opposite side of the building. This is because the credit requires that the project be located within a minimum density area and within walking distance of diverse uses1. The walking distance is measured from a main functional entry of the project building to the diverse use entry1. If the main functional entry is moved, the distance to the diverse uses may change and affect the credit achievement. The other credits are not affected by the move of the main entrance, as they are based on the location of the project site, not the building entry. The Location and Transportation Credit, High-Priority Site rewards projects that are located on sites that are previously developed, infill, or adjacent to existing development2. The Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection rewards projects that are located on sites that do not contain sensitive land features such as prime farmland, wetlands, or habitats3. The Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location rewards projects that are located within the boundary of a LEED for Neighborhood Development certified plan4.
Reference:
• Surrounding density and diverse uses, p. 1
• High-priority site, p. 1
• Sensitive land protection, p. 1
• LEED for neighborhood development location, p. 1
Question #185
The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) includes the measure of a material’s
- A . color (shade of gray)
- B . ability to reflect solar radiation
- C . ability to absorb solar radiation
- D . ability to reflect thermal radiation
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a measure of the roof’s ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. It is defined so that a standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and a standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. SRI is calculated using the roof surface’s Solar Reflectance (SR) and Thermal Emittance (TE). SR is the fraction of solar energy that is reflected by the roof, and TE is the relative ability of the roof surface to radiate heat. Therefore, SRI includes the measure of a material’s ability to reflect solar radiation, but not its ability to absorb or emit thermal radiation.
Reference: What is the Solar Reflectance Index? – Cool Roof Rating Council Definitions and Terms | HEATISLAND
B
Explanation:
The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a measure of the roof’s ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. It is defined so that a standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and a standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. SRI is calculated using the roof surface’s Solar Reflectance (SR) and Thermal Emittance (TE). SR is the fraction of solar energy that is reflected by the roof, and TE is the relative ability of the roof surface to radiate heat. Therefore, SRI includes the measure of a material’s ability to reflect solar radiation, but not its ability to absorb or emit thermal radiation.
Reference: What is the Solar Reflectance Index? – Cool Roof Rating Council Definitions and Terms | HEATISLAND
Question #186
A mixed-use development is located 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) from a future commuter rail line station.
Which of the following pieces of information is needed when determining whether the rail line station can contribute to Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit?
- A . Discounted rail pass availability
- B . Rail line station construction completion date
- C . Connections to transfer routes
- D . Passenger capacity
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The rail line station construction completion date is needed when determining whether the rail line station can contribute to Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit. This is because the credit requires that the transit service must be existing or planned to be in operation within two years of the project’s occupancy1. Discounted rail pass availability, connections to transfer routes, and passenger capacity are not relevant for this credit1.
Reference: • Access to quality transit, p. 1
B
Explanation:
The rail line station construction completion date is needed when determining whether the rail line station can contribute to Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit. This is because the credit requires that the transit service must be existing or planned to be in operation within two years of the project’s occupancy1. Discounted rail pass availability, connections to transfer routes, and passenger capacity are not relevant for this credit1.
Reference: • Access to quality transit, p. 1
Question #187
A project team compares a life-cycle assessment (LCA) model to a baseline design to determine the reductions in six impact categories. One impact category exceeds the baseline by 7%.
Which alternative analyses should the team run to check different impact measurements?
- A . Change the orientation of the design case building
- B . Optimize the slab depth of the design case building
- C . Decrease the gross floor area of the baseline building
- D . Increase the wall mass and types of windows in the baseline building
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
This alternative analysis can help the team check the impact of reducing the amount of concrete
used in the building, which can affect several impact categories, such as global warming potential (GWP), acidification, and eutrophication1. Concrete is a material with high embodied energy and carbon emissions, and reducing its use can lower the environmental impact of the building2.
Optimizing the slab depth can also improve the thermal performance and daylighting of the building, which can reduce the operational energy use and demand3.
Reference: = LCA in LEED – Whole-building Life Cycle Assessment, Concrete and Embodied Carbon C Can we reduce carbon emissions and still use concrete?, Optimizing Slab Thickness for Energy Performance.
B
Explanation:
This alternative analysis can help the team check the impact of reducing the amount of concrete
used in the building, which can affect several impact categories, such as global warming potential (GWP), acidification, and eutrophication1. Concrete is a material with high embodied energy and carbon emissions, and reducing its use can lower the environmental impact of the building2.
Optimizing the slab depth can also improve the thermal performance and daylighting of the building, which can reduce the operational energy use and demand3.
Reference: = LCA in LEED – Whole-building Life Cycle Assessment, Concrete and Embodied Carbon C Can we reduce carbon emissions and still use concrete?, Optimizing Slab Thickness for Energy Performance.
Question #188
Which of the following projects is eligible to pursue the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance, Option 2. Prescriptive Compliance: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide?
- A . 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) office project
- B . 80,000 ft2 (7 432 m2) hospital project
- C . 110,000 ft2 (10 219 m2) school project
- D . 140,000 ft2 (13 006 m2) retail project
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance, Option 2. Prescriptive Compliance: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide allows projects to follow the recommendations of the ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) for different building types and climate zones. The AEDGs provide design guidance for buildings that use 50% less energy than those built to the requirements of the ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2004 commercial code1. However, not all building types and sizes are covered by the AEDGs. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the following building types and sizes are eligible for this option:
Small to Medium Office buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
Medium to Large Retail buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
K-12 School buildings up to 200,000 ft2 (18 580 m2)
Warehouse and Distribution Center buildings up to 500,000 ft2 (46 450 m2)
Therefore, among the given options, only the school project is eligible to pursue this option, as it falls
within the size limit for the K-12 School AEDG3.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Minimum Energy Performance – ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010
ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide for K-12 School Buildings Advanced Energy Design Guides | Department of Energy
C
Explanation:
The Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance, Option 2. Prescriptive Compliance: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide allows projects to follow the recommendations of the ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) for different building types and climate zones. The AEDGs provide design guidance for buildings that use 50% less energy than those built to the requirements of the ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2004 commercial code1. However, not all building types and sizes are covered by the AEDGs. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the following building types and sizes are eligible for this option:
Small to Medium Office buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
Medium to Large Retail buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
K-12 School buildings up to 200,000 ft2 (18 580 m2)
Warehouse and Distribution Center buildings up to 500,000 ft2 (46 450 m2)
Therefore, among the given options, only the school project is eligible to pursue this option, as it falls
within the size limit for the K-12 School AEDG3.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Minimum Energy Performance – ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010
ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide for K-12 School Buildings Advanced Energy Design Guides | Department of Energy
Question #189
Who must be a member of the integrated project team for the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design?
- A . The general contractor
- B . A LEED AP
- C . The project’s mechanical engineer
- D . The owner or an owner’s representative
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the owner or an owner’s representative must be a member of the integrated project team for the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design. The owner or an owner’s representative is responsible for establishing the project’s vision, goals, budget, and schedule, as well as defining the owner’s project requirements (OPR) and participating in the design charrettes and reviews1. The owner or an owner’s representative also plays a key role in ensuring the continuity and alignment of the project’s performance and environmental objectives throughout all phases of the project1.
The other choices are not mandatory members of the integrated project team, although they may be involved in the integrative process depending on the project’s scope and needs. The general contractor is typically hired after the design phase and may not be involved in the predesign and schematic design analyses required by the prerequisite1. A LEED AP is a professional who has demonstrated knowledge and experience in applying the LEED rating system, but is not required to be part of the integrated project team, although it is recommended and rewarded by the LEED credit, Integrative Process1. The project’s mechanical engineer is one of the possible design consultants who may contribute to the integrative process, especially for the energy-related systems analysis, but is not required to be part of the integrated project team1.
Reference: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design, Requirements1
D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the owner or an owner’s representative must be a member of the integrated project team for the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design. The owner or an owner’s representative is responsible for establishing the project’s vision, goals, budget, and schedule, as well as defining the owner’s project requirements (OPR) and participating in the design charrettes and reviews1. The owner or an owner’s representative also plays a key role in ensuring the continuity and alignment of the project’s performance and environmental objectives throughout all phases of the project1.
The other choices are not mandatory members of the integrated project team, although they may be involved in the integrative process depending on the project’s scope and needs. The general contractor is typically hired after the design phase and may not be involved in the predesign and schematic design analyses required by the prerequisite1. A LEED AP is a professional who has demonstrated knowledge and experience in applying the LEED rating system, but is not required to be part of the integrated project team, although it is recommended and rewarded by the LEED credit, Integrative Process1. The project’s mechanical engineer is one of the possible design consultants who may contribute to the integrative process, especially for the energy-related systems analysis, but is not required to be part of the integrated project team1.
Reference: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design, Requirements1
Question #190
A topographic assessment of a project site located 150 ft. (45 m) from a water body was conducted. The results of the slope analysis show that the site is generally sloping 6% to 8% to the northwest over most of the site, with some steep slopes located at the eastern edge of the property, which may impact the runoff volume.
Which one of the following LEED credits or prerequisites will be affected by these results?
- A . Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management
- B . Sustainable Sites Prerequisite, Environmental Site Assessment
- C . Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection
- D . Location and Transportation Credit, High-Priority Site
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The Sustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Rainwater Management (A) would be affected by the slope analysis results. Slopes, especially those near water bodies, can significantly impact stormwater runoff volume and patterns. Managing runoff in sloped areas is crucial to minimize erosion, reduce pollutants, and protect nearby water bodies. This credit aims to reduce runoff volume and improve water quality by implementing effective rainwater management strategies based on site conditions. Other credits, like Environmental Site Assessment (B) or Sensitive Land Protection (C), don’t focus on runoff management.
A
Explanation:
The Sustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Rainwater Management (A) would be affected by the slope analysis results. Slopes, especially those near water bodies, can significantly impact stormwater runoff volume and patterns. Managing runoff in sloped areas is crucial to minimize erosion, reduce pollutants, and protect nearby water bodies. This credit aims to reduce runoff volume and improve water quality by implementing effective rainwater management strategies based on site conditions. Other credits, like Environmental Site Assessment (B) or Sensitive Land Protection (C), don’t focus on runoff management.