AutoCAD Training Classes

Public instructor-led AutoCAD course prices start at $1730 per student. Group training discounts are available.

Self-Paced AutoCAD eLearning courses cost $500 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.

A: If you are wondering what AutoCAD skills are important to learn, we've written an AutoCAD Skills and Learning Guide that maps out AutoCAD skills that are key to master and which of our courses teaches each skill.

Read Our AutoCAD Skills and Learning Guide

A: When working toward AutoCAD certification, you'll have your choice of two credentials: the basic AutoCAD Certified User and the advanced AutoCAD Certified Professional. Both certification levels require that you pass exams and prove proficiency with the software. Though rigid prerequisites aren't needed to enroll for certification exams, hands-on and real-world experience with AutoCAD can be required to pass the exam. For some, the best way to learn AutoCAD can be through instructional courses, which can help students pass the certification exam the first time that they take it.

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A: A CAD, or computer-aided design, program is a piece of software that allows people who design, draft, and build projects to generate 2D, 2.5D, or 3D models before they commence work. AutoCAD is a specific piece of software created by Autodesk that incorporates CAD principles and technology into its features and functions. Many different types of professionals, including architects, civil engineers, and interior designers, can use both AutoCAD and other CAD programs to create models of structures and items. How these programs are used can be influenced by the industry to which a professional belongs.

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A: AutoCAD, the most popular computer-aided design (CAD) software on the market, is a staple for those who create professional 2D or 3D models and designs, but it’s a complex tool that can’t be mastered overnight. Learning AutoCAD can be an intensive and lengthy experience, especially for a novice, and taking training classes can shorten your learning curve. Those who intend to obtain the Autodesk Professional Certification in AutoCAD should plan on taking advanced prep courses and use the program for at least 400 hours before attempting exams.

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A: To expedite the process of learning AutoCAD, employees should first familiarize themselves with basic computer-aided design (CAD) concepts. Although some individuals consider the AutoCAD software intimidating, others find that with a little time and commitment, mastering the program is possible within a few months. While many avenues for professional training exist, including colleges and union locations, online courses can offer the fastest method of learning for most. Some accelerated online training courses are designed to teach AutoCAD skills in as little as a couple of days.

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A: With CAD training, employees can obtain jobs in the aeronautics, electrical, civil engineering, mechanical, and architectural industries, among many others. Earning an Autodesk Certified User (ACU) or Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) certification can help people qualify for jobs as diverse as drawing up blueprints for auto parts, designing landscapes, or creating stage designs for music and theater performances. Individuals interested in obtaining an AutoCAD certificate should be pleased to know that national projections point to a steady availability of drafting jobs until at least 2028.

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A: An Autodesk Certified Professional is an individual who has expert knowledge and advanced skill in working with specific pieces of Autodesk software. Autodesk Certified Professionals often enjoy higher rates of pay than those who don’t hold any credential or are simply Autodesk Certified Users. Though the road to becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional can vary between individuals, many employees need a minimum of 400 hours of experience working with Autodesk software before taking the exam.

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A: The specific software training that you'll need to become a civil engineer can vary depending on your professional specialty and the specific projects that you want to help design. Generally, however, civil engineers need to know how to work with computer-aided design (CAD) software and standard office programs to record figures and manage projects. Earning certifications in the types of CAD programs used in your civil engineering specialty can prove your proficiency with this technology and convince employers to trust you with complex design duties.

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A: Mechanical engineering is a broad branch of the engineering industry, and the particular pieces of software used by its professionals can depend on their specific discipline of mechanical engineering and its corresponding projects. While some mechanical engineers rely on advanced design, modeling, visualization, and analysis software, they may also use computer-aided design (CAD) programs, Microsoft Office software, and/or standard programming languages. Researching your preferred mechanical engineering discipline and obtaining effective, efficient training from knowledgeable professionals can be essential to having a successful career.

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A: AutoCAD is the most popular drafting & engineering design program. It is a powerful program with many uses in such areas as product design, architectural engineering, and manufacturing. AutoCAD skills are important for many people in these fields and others. You can learn AutoCAD fast with 4 different learning options: 1) Instructor-led AutoCAD Courses; 2) Self-paced AutoCAD eLearning; 3) Online AutoCAD Tutorials; 4) Books on AutoCAD.

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A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of time it takes to learn AutoCAD will vary depending on your prior experience and natural aptitude for learning new software. However, most people who are new to AutoCAD can expect to spend several weeks or even months mastering the basics. With that said, AutoCAD is a complex program with a wide range of features and functionality, so it's important to be patient and dedicated when learning the software. With some time and practice, you'll be an AutoCAD expert in no time!

A: AutoCAD is a powerful computer-aided design (CAD) software application used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals to create detailed 2D and 3D drawings. While AutoCAD is an extremely versatile program, it can be difficult to learn if you don't have any prior experience with CAD software. The best way to learn AutoCAD is to take a formal training course from an established AutoCAD training company or college. There are also many online tutorials and resources available that can help you get started. Once you have a basic understanding of the software, you can begin experimenting with more advanced features and techniques.

A: There is no doubt that AutoCAD is a powerful tool for designers and engineers. However, many people wonder if it is worth learning, given the cost of training and the steep learning curve.

The answer to this question depends on your circumstances. If you are looking to start or further your career in design or engineering, then learning AutoCAD is a wise investment. The software is industry-standard, and being able to use it will give you a significant advantage in the job market. Even if you don't plan on using AutoCAD professionally, it can still be a useful tool for personal projects.

If you are simply interested in trying out AutoCAD, or you don't think you will use it often, then there is no need to invest in formal training. You can find plenty of free resources online, such as tutorials and videos, that will help you get started.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to learn AutoCAD is up to you. If you think it would be a useful career skill to have, then it is worth investing in formal training.

A: There's no doubt that AutoCAD is a complex program. However, with a little practice and the right skills, anyone can master it. Here are some of the top skills you need to know to become an AutoCAD expert:

Top AutoCAD Skills

1. Basic navigation - The first step to becoming an AutoCAD expert is mastering the basic navigation commands. This includes knowing how to zoom in and out, pan around the drawing, and rotate the view. With these skills, you'll be able to quickly get around any drawing file no matter how large or complex it is.

2. Creating objects - One of the most important skills in AutoCAD is creating objects. This includes everything from simple lines and circles to more complex shapes and 3D models. With a little practice, you'll be able to create any object you can imagine.

3. Editing objects - Once you've mastered creating objects, the next step is learning how to edit them. This includes skills like moving, copying, and rotating objects as well as more advanced techniques like mirroring and trimming. With these skills, you'll be able to make any changes you need to your drawings.

4. Working with layers - Layers are an important part of AutoCAD drawings. They allow you to organize your drawing and make it easier to work with complex files. To become an AutoCAD expert, you'll need to know how to create, rename, and delete layers as well as how to control their visibility.

5. Annotating drawings - Another important skill in AutoCAD is annotating drawings. This includes adding text, dimensions, and other annotations to your drawing. With these skills, you'll be able to clearly communicate your ideas to others.

6. Creating blocks - Blocks are a powerful tool in AutoCAD that allows you to reuse objects in your drawing. To become an expert, you'll need to know how to create and edit blocks as well as insert them into your drawing.

7. Working with xrefs - Xrefs are another powerful tool in AutoCAD that allows you to reference external files in your drawing. To become an expert, you'll need to know how to attach and detach xrefs as well as how to control their visibility.

8. Plotting drawings - Once you've finished your drawing, the next step is plotting it. This includes setting up the plotter, choosing the right paper size, and configuring the plot options. With these skills, you'll be able to produce high-quality prints of your drawings.

These are just a few of the skills you need to master to become an AutoCAD expert. With a little practice, you'll be able to use all of these skills to create amazing drawings.

A: While the particular pieces of software that civil engineers need to learn can depend on their specific projects, certain programs are regularly used throughout the industry. Generally speaking, civil engineers can expect to use Microsoft Excel to calculate figures, Microsoft Project to manage projects, and a computer-aided design (CAD) program like AutoCAD or AutoCAD Civil 3D to create 2D or 3D models. Additional applications that civil engineers may use include those that deal with locations and maps, like ArcGIS, and document collaboration tools like Bluebeam Revu.

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AutoCAD Blogs

• AutoCAD Official Blog | Autodesk
• Best CAD Tips
• The AutoCAD Tips Blog
• The CAD Geek

AutoCAD User Groups

• Local User Groups | AUGI - Autodesk User Group International
• AutoCAD groups | Meetup

AutoCAD Online Forums

• AutoCAD - Autodesk Community - Autodesk forums
• AutoCAD Training, Support and Resources - Reddit