New accreditations available through the CLD program
The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) recently updated the Certified Landscape Designer (CLD) certification program to make the process more rewarding than ever. Design candidates can now earn accredited mini designations as they progress through the regular path — celebrating milestones and recognizing expertise along the way.
Below are some of the updates to this nationally recognized, industry developed program that establishes and upholds standards for the Canadian landscape industry.
New! Certified Garden Designer (GD)
The Garden Designer (GD) path is the first step in the program. To qualify for this new designation, candidates must have successfully completed a minimum of one year of post secondary education in a landscape design-related program, or possess equivalent work-related experience that may be considered in lieu of formal education. The application process is simple: complete the online form and pay a one-time fee. Earning the GD designation not only boosts your professional standing, but also allows you to use a recognized logo on your work, on social media and in communications, demonstrating your expertise to clients and peers.
New! Certified Garden Design Professional (GD Pro)
By scoring 70 per cent or higher on all sections of the CLD exam, designers earn the nationally recognized Garden Design Professional (GD Pro) designation. This accreditation showcases a dedication to excellence in design and marks a significant milestone in a designer’s professional journey. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and passion required for creating beautiful outdoor spaces.
The written exam is available through CNLA via Mettl, an online exam system with live proctoring, covering six sections, including communications, landscape construction, design, grading and drainage, horticulture and practice. Don’t forget to grab your CLD Study Manual to prepare like a pro.
The regular path to CLD
A CLD combines creativity, technical skill and problem-solving abilities in every project. This collaborative method helps provide thoughtful, site-specific advice that effectively tackles each unique design challenge.
The last step to obtain the CLD credential is submitting a professional portfolio. To qualify, candidates must have six years of relevant education and design experience and pass the CLD exam. Their portfolio should feature three projects in which they served as the principal designer or led the design process.
CLD candidates are encouraged to submit one landscape design project initially and use the feedback to refine their work before completing and submitting the remaining projects. The portfolio review process is intentionally iterative rather than one-time only, providing candidates with constructive feedback and opportunities to revise and resubmit. This approach supports professional growth and allows candidates to clearly demonstrate their design knowledge, skills and competency.
The legacy path to CLD
The Legacy Provision pathway celebrates experience and expertise. Candidates must have at least 12 years of combined education and hands-on experience in landscape design to apply. To complete the journey, applicants submit three professional portfolio pieces that showcase their role as a principal designer or in a leading position. These projects are thoughtfully reviewed by the provincial or regional portfolio review committee — giving your work the recognition it truly deserves.
New! Emeritus status
Emeritus status allows CLDs to retain their title after retirement. It’s a great way for them to continue feeling appreciated and proud of the work they’ve done in design.
Certified individuals may request emeritus status if they are:
• Aged 60 or above,
• Retiring from the green industry,
• Actively certified for at least six years before retirement.
Certified individuals who wish to remain active in the green industry — whether as consultants or lecturers — are not considered retired and are therefore ineligible for emeritus status. If an individual granted emeritus status later returns to professional practice, their emeritus designation will be revoked and they must complete the Legacy Program to regain full certification.
CLDs awarded emeritus status will also receive a new certificate reflecting their retired status, honouring their contributions to the design profession.
Embrace new challenges this year
The designer program is here to support you every step of the way. Achieving a national designation is a wonderful way to showcase your skills and reach a recognized standard of excellence in landscape design. These credentials help you confidently share your expertise and qualifications with clients, making your professional journey even more rewarding.
To order a CLD Study Manual, register for an exam or find out more, visit cnlagetcertified.ca.
CLD EXAM WORKSHOPS OFFERED IN APRIL
The Landscape Ontario Designers Sector group is holding two in-person workshops designed to answer your questions and set you up for success.
Fanshawe College, London
Tue., April 21, 2026 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch, then exam concluding around 4:30 p.m.
Landscape Ontario, Milton
Wed., April 29, 2026 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch, then exam concluding around 4:30 p.m.
Visit landscapeontario.com/events to register for one of the workshops and order your CLD Study Manual and register for the exam with CNLA via cnlagetcertified.ca.
