November 28, 2007—A newly incorporated entity, the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), has been established with the support of the US Green Building Council to develop and administer credentialing programs related to green building practice and standards.
GBCI will ensure that the LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) program will continue to be developed in accordance with best practices for credentialing programs. To underscore this commitment, GBCI will undergo the ANSI accreditation process for personnel certification agencies complying with ISO Standard 17024.
In January 2008, USGBC will transfer responsibility for the ongoing administration of the LEED Professional Accreditation program to GBCI; GBCI will then manage all aspects of the LEED AP program including exam development, registration, and delivery. GBCI will also oversee the development of the maintenance program for LEED AP credential holders.
The newly launched GBCI Web site provides credential-related information for LEED Accredited Professionals and interested candidates. Users can register for the LEED AP Exam, find LEED Accredited Professionals in their area, access their LEED AP exam records, and manage their LEED AP Directory listing.
GBCI will serve as the independent administrator of the LEED Professional Accreditation program. USGBC will continue to manage the development of the LEED Green Building Rating System and to provide related resources and educational offerings. According to USGBC, LEED Accredited Professionals will not have to make any changes, and their credential will not be affected with this change.
