Whether you're already certified, registered for the exam, or simply interested in becoming certified, this email is for you.

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If you don't fit any of the above categories, please forward this to someone you think might be interested.

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Attention CPBDs

We're confident you'll always complete and report your continuing education on time, thereby avoiding any short-term suspension. However, please be aware that effective January 1, 2026, the NCBDC will implement a $45 reinstatement fee for recertifying those who have lapsed into suspension.

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If you are currently in suspension status, you will soon be contacted by a member of the NCBDC Recertification Committee, if you haven't already been, offering to assist you in getting your certification active again before the deadline.

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Attention Candidates

Big changes are coming to the CPBD Exam on January 1, 2026.

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Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

The current examination is a single, three-hour test featuring 175 questions. It carries a fee of $300, a cost that applies equally to all retake attempts.

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Starting next year, the exam will be divided into three timed sections:

• Business Admin and Practices (30 minutes)
• Design Processes (30 minutes)
• Building Design (2-hours)

The good news is that you'll be able to retake any section you don't pass individually, without needing to redo the entire exam.

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However, the new format comes with a price increase. The two 30-minute sections will cost $100 each, and the longer section will be $200, bringing the total cost to $400.

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You can either wait for the convenience of the new format or take the exam before the end of 2025 to save $100.

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Considering Certification?

If you're approved to sit for the exam and become certified, the new policies will apply to you, with one key update. Should your application be approved in the new year or later, your window to pass all exam sections will be two years, a reduction from the previous three-year timeframe.

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Apply now and give yourself an extra year to prepare for and pass the exam.

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For any questions, please download the current Certification Handbook at AIBD.org/chb. This version is valid through the end of 2025.

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The Council will meet in November to finalize policy changes. An email notification will be sent once the new handbook is released.

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Have a great day,

Bernie Kern, FAIBD

President, National Council of Building Designer Certification