---
title: "Lesson 4: Creating a Certificate Using the Certificate Builder"
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/software/learndash/academy/lesson-4-creating-a-certificate-using-the-certificate-builder/"
description: "Certificates in LearnDash let you recognize learner achievements with personalized, professional-looking documents. You can create them in two ways: using the c…"
vertical: "Software"
area: "Academy"
topics: ["Courses", "Crafting Your Course", "How To", "LearnDash 101", "Lessons"]
date: "2023-02-16"
last_modified: "2023-02-16"
---

# Lesson 4: Creating a Certificate Using the Certificate Builder

Certificates in LearnDash let you recognize learner achievements with personalized, professional-looking documents. You can create them in two ways: using the **classic editor** or the **Certificate Builder add-on**. This guide shows you how to create a certificate using the builder.

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#### Installing the Certificate Builder Add-On

1. From your WordPress dashboard, go to **LearnDash LMS > Add-Ons**.
2. Search for **Certificate Builder**.
3. Click **Install** and then **Activate**.

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#### Creating a New Certificate

1. Navigate to **LearnDash LMS > Certificates**.
2. Click **Add New**.
3. By default, you’ll land in the classic editor. To use the builder, click **Use Certificate Builder**.
4. Add a **Certificate Title** (internal use only).

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#### Designing the Certificate

1. **Background Image**: 
    - Upload or select a certificate background from your Media Library.
2. **Adding Content Blocks**: 
    - Click the **“+” button** to insert blocks.
    - Use **spacers** to adjust layout positioning (spacing may differ in the preview).
3. **Available LearnDash Blocks**: 
    - **User Meta**: Display learner information, such as first and last name.
    - **Course Info**: Insert details like course title or completion date.
    - **Quiz Info**: Add quiz-related information.
    - **Group Info**: Show group-specific details.

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#### Example Layout

- **User Name**: Inserted using *User Meta* (formatted and resized, e.g., 60px).
- **Course Title**: Added with *Course Info* (leave Course ID blank if associating with all courses).
- **Completion Date**: Added with *Course Info > Course Completion Date*.
- **Custom Text**: Insert a *Paragraph block* with text like “Completed on.”
- **Optional Enhancements**: Add logos, branding elements, or styled text.

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#### Previewing and Testing

- The builder preview will not display dynamic course data (e.g., titles, completion dates).
- To test: 
    1. Create a **test course**.
    2. Assign the certificate to that course.
    3. Enroll a **test user** and mark the course as complete.
    4. View the generated certificate to confirm spacing, formatting, and data display.

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### Why This Matters

Certificates boost learner motivation and provide tangible proof of achievement. The Certificate Builder makes it easy to design customized, branded certificates that reflect your course’s professionalism.

> **Tip:** Don’t focus too much on perfect spacing inside the builder—the preview with test data gives the most accurate picture. Adjust fonts, spacing, and branding afterward for the best results.