AutoCAD Certification Course Online with Software & Exam | VDCI.edu

This course includes

150 hours of project-based training from experts
5 course modules & 267 training videos
Access to AutoCAD software (6 months)
AutoCAD Certified User Exam with retake
Answers from real instructors
Final project graded by an industry expert
1-on-1 bonus training
Verified digital certificate of completion
Learn at an accredited institution
Flexible payment plans

Enhance your AutoCAD proficiency, commencing from the fundamentals. Explore the AutoCAD User Interface in our meticulously structured online courses. Throughout this comprehensive AutoCAD learning experience, you will master the creation of construction documents—an invaluable skill set for professional workflows. Gain insights into the concepts and skillsets essential for crafting precise construction documents, preparing you for real-world challenges.

Our five-course series not only equips you with state-of-the-art techniques but also readies you for success in the Autodesk Certified User Exam in AutoCAD and the Autodesk Certified Professional Exam in AutoCAD. You can choose which exam you would like to take upon completing all courses in this Certification series.

These classes offer a hands-on, project-centric approach, guided by experienced instructors who are actively engaged in professional AutoCAD usage. Elevate your AutoCAD skills with practical insights from industry experts who navigate AutoCAD daily.

Courses & Videos in This Package

Download Syllabus PDF

Unit 1 30 Hours

Intro to AutoCAD Course Online

Learn AutoCAD online from the very beginning, drawing drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and then a floor plan. We assemble everything into one deliverable sheet file. In this Introduction to AutoCAD class, become familiar with the AutoCAD user interface and basic AutoCAD commands, including Drawing, Modifying, Layering Standards, Text, Dimensioning and Plotting. You will draw a floor plan for a small Habitat for Humanity residential project, starting at the very beginning. You will be provided source AutoCAD files, which you will use to start your project.

Create drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, a floor plan and integrate all information into one deliverable sheet file.
Distinguish the differences required to generate drawings for use as annotation and real-world model components.
Create and insert blocks and externally reference files and determine the appropriate times to apply those skill sets.
Master file management, drafting on layers, integrating drawing component files and plotting while creating on the class residential project.

Video Training Preview

Lesson 1: The Interface and Architectural Symbols

Lesson 2: Electrical Symbols

Lesson 3: Kitchen and Bath Fixtures

Lesson 4: Walls, Doors, and Windows

Lesson 5: Creating Sheets and Adding Fixtures

Lesson 6: The Dimensions and Plotting

Unit 2 30 Hours

Intermediate AutoCAD Course Onlne

In this course, you will draft an abbreviated set of CAD construction documents for a Habitat for Humanity project, including floor plan, roof plan, foundation plan, electrical plan, and building elevations. Create and insert blocks, externally reference files, and determine the appropriate times to use these commands to optimize project workflow. Create, insert, and link drawings. You will learn the best workflow. This course reinforces basic understanding of AutoCAD and develops experience in more advanced applications. Topics include file referencing across the project data, user coordinate systems, dynamic viewing, and paper/model space conventions. Advanced AutoCAD commands and drafting conventions are heavily stressed in this online AutoCAD course.

Create an abbreviated set of construction documents, including floor plan, foundation plan, electrical plan, and building elevations for a small residential project.
Create and insert blocks, externally reference files, and determine the appropriate times to apply those skill sets to optimize project efficiency.
Demonstrate layer and file management, external file referencing, use of model/layout environment,s and user coordinate systems.
Apply intermediate-level skills including layer management, user coordinate system development, creating sheet layout environments, and plotting.

Video Training Preview

Lesson 1: Create the Floorplan & Sheet Setup

Lesson 2: Finish Floorplan & Roof Plan

Lesson 3: Structural Foundation Plan & Electrical Plan

Lesson 4: Starting the Elevations

Lesson 5: Continuing the Elevations

Lesson 6: Finalizing, Checking & Plotting

Unit 3 30 Hours

AutoCAD Construction Documents I Course Online

In this course, we use AutoCAD to develop titleblock drawings from scratch, draft a floor plan, multi-scale enlarged plans, roof plan and building elevations for a more complicated one-story residence. You will learn important, relevant & practical CAD workflow skills, including AutoCAD commands, menuing systems and project workflow. The course covers two-dimensional (2D) drawing commands and drafting techniques for developing construction documents, including dimensioning, layout environments, layering systems and plotting.

Create titleblock and titleblock/drawing label components for a professional office to facilitate development of deliverable sheet files.
Create floor plan, enlarged plan, roof plan and building elevation of a moderately complex residential project. Includes the development of floor plan, roof plan and elevation notes.
Successfully integrate referenced files to create construction documents. Demonstrate layer and file management, use of model/layout environments and multi-scale drawing presentation.
Organize deliverable sheet set to conform to the National CAD Standards.
Apply intermediate-level skills to create sheet layout environments and plotting.

Video Training Preview

Lesson 1: Residential Floorplan

Lesson 2: Titleblock & Paperspace Elements

Lesson 3: Dimensions & Updating Sheets

Lesson 4: Roof Plan

Lesson 5: Keynotes & Starting the Elevation

Lesson 6: Finishing the Elevation & Final Deliverables

Unit 4 30 Hours

AutoCAD Construction Documents II Course Online

AutoCAD Construction Documents II is an advanced-level course designed to elevate your expertise in producing professional construction documents using AutoCAD. This course builds upon fundamental drafting and AutoCAD skills, focusing on the creation of precise, detailed construction drawings that meet industry standards. You will learn how to create cohesive and technically accurate sets of plans, allowing for better communication across various teams within architectural, engineering, and construction project workflows. Throughout the course, you will work on producing detailed layouts, refining annotation techniques, and ensuring consistency across multiple drawing sheets. You’ll also explore layer management, plotting styles, and building custom blocks, providing you with a solid foundation to handle complex construction documentation efficiently. By the end of this course, you will have developed a thorough understanding of advanced AutoCAD tools and workflows, empowering you to create professional-level documents for real-world applications.

Create building elevations, building sections, wall sections; modify detail drawings; create metes and bounds (Civil) drawing; create relevant deliverable sheet files for a moderately complex residential project. Includes the development of title sheet and appropriate general and keynote legends.
Successfully integrate referenced files to create construction documents. Demonstrate layer and file management, use of model/layout environments and multi-scale drawing presentations.
Apply intermediate/advanced-level skills to create sheet layout environments and plotting.
Organize deliverable sheet set to conform to the National CAD Standards.

Video Training Preview

Lesson 1: Site Plan

Lesson 2: Elevation and Section Setup

Lesson 3: Developing the Sections

Lesson 4: Drawing Updates

Lesson 5: Detail Drawings, Keynotes and Callouts

Lesson 6: Title Sheet

Unit 5 20 Hours

CAD Detailing

Create detail drawings. Learn the two dominant CAD standards AEC firms use – making detail drawings from scratch and by referencing and clipping information from other drawings. Learn drawing standards and about organizing your details.

Create detail drawings pertinent to the course project.
Create relevant deliverable sheet files.
Integrate referenced files to create details for construction documents.
Demonstrate layer and file management, use of model/layout environments and multi-scale drawing presentations.
Apply intermediate/advanced-level skills to create sheet layout environments and plotting.

Video Training Preview

Lesson 1: Detail Sheet Elements

Lesson 2: Updating Sliding Door Section Detail - Part 1

Lesson 2: Updating Sliding Door Section Detail - Part 2

Lesson 2: Updating Sliding Door Section Detail - Part 3

Lesson 2: Updating Two Hour Rated Wall Detail - Part 1

Lesson 2: Updating Two Hour Rated Wall Detail - Part 2

Lesson 2: Updating Stringer Intersection Detail

Lesson 2: Updating Upper Entry Flashing Detail

Lesson 2: Updating Handrail Section Detail - Part 1

Lesson 2: Updating Handrail Section Detail - Part 2

Midterm Example Video

Lesson 3: Incorporating Manufacturer Information

Lesson 4: Building Sheets & Millwork Drawings

Program Reviews

From our hands-on training style to world-class instructors and custom-crafted curriculum, we deliver results our alumni are proud of.

Very good! Overall, I am satisfied with the course material and pace. The instructor was also very responsive when answering questions or concerns.

Zunjie Jed Hu

The videos and overall experience was great. At times it was tough getting through all the material but making the time to do it definitely paid off in the end! Thank you VDCI for the help in this achievement.

Anthony Perez

Great balance of repetition of key work flows and buttons mixed with introducing new ways to complete a task. Perfect pace to follow along. I especially liked creating relevant drawings as a way to go over all the different buttons and commands vs just talking about it.

Jenny Foglesong

I've really enjoyed my experience at VDCI and will definitely recommend them to anyone I know who wants to learn the programs. The teachers are very informative, they work in the real world of what they teach, and are attentive to their students. The admin staff has also been great and are still super helpful even after I've completed the program.

Anonymous

The way of explaining each step within the program was made very easy. The instructor was always there when i needed him and he inspired me to keep learning the course.

Nestor Daniel Gomez

Anthony Perez Dec 9, 2024

The videos and overall experience was great. At times it was tough getting through all the material but making the time to do it definitely paid off in the end! Thank you VDCI for the help in this achievement.
Anonymous Jun 14, 2024

Loved how it was mostly self based. Definitely helped me continue working my 40 hours and doing this here and there!
Anonymous Aug 26, 2023

Excellent pace and lots of different ways to accomplish the same task, very engaging course.
Mohammad Nazir Nangyal Aug 20, 2023

Really my knowledge getting improved day by day with this course.
Anonymous Aug 10, 2023

This was a well- paced, insightful, easy to follow yet challenging and rewarding course. Great work!
Lindsay Davis Jul 9, 2023

My instructor, David, responded to all of my questions in a timely manner. Overall, the course helped solidify a good introduction into AutoCAD!
Kory Chou Jul 9, 2023

I feel like this course is really good for people who don't have much experience in AutoCAD and it really helped me enhance my knowledge on using AutoCAD. Thank you!
Jenny Foglesong Jul 7, 2023

Great balance of repetition of key work flows and buttons mixed with introducing new ways to complete a task. Perfect pace to follow along. I especially liked creating relevant drawings as a way to go over all the different buttons and commands vs just talking about it.
Zunjie Jed Hu May 29, 2023

Very good! Overall, I am satisfied with the course material and pace. The instructor was also very responsive when answering questions or concerns.
Chayce Lewing Apr 18, 2023

Every piece of the curriculum was relevant, helpful, insightful, and up-to-date.
Nestor Daniel Gomez Mar 24, 2023

The way of explaining each step within the program was made very easy. The instructor was always there when i needed him and he inspired me to keep learning the course.
Natalie Spilman Jan 23, 2023

This was a fun and awesome course, detailed videos were amazing and I appreciate the explanations it included for tools and commands. My instructor answered questions politely yet very clearly - always responding within a day.
Anonymous Jan 19, 2023

Overall a good experience. My teacher was very methodical and clear and Student Services always responded to my emails promptly.
Anonymous Jun 5, 2019

I've really enjoyed my experience at VDCI and will definitely recommend them to anyone I know who wants to learn the programs. The teachers are very informative, they work in the real world of what they teach, and are attentive to their students. The admin staff has also been great and are still super helpful even after I've completed the program.

Showing 14 of 14 reviews

Tuition & Financing

If you prefer to pay your tuition over time, we have payment options to meet your needs. Finance your education through an installment plan. We also assist with documentation should your employer offer tuition reimbursement.

Full Tuition

$2,595
$1,999
Limited time promotion Pay in installments

This course includes

150 hours of project-based training from experts
5 course modules & 267 training videos
Access to AutoCAD software (6 months)
AutoCAD Certified User Exam with retake
Answers from real instructors
Final project graded by an industry expert
1-on-1 bonus training
Verified digital certificate of completion
Learn at an accredited institution
Flexible payment plans

Pay in Installments

Automatic approval
No interest or fees
Manageable installments
Total due by the end of the course

Deposit

$579

Due at checkout to secure your place in the class

+

Installments

3 Installments

Each installment is charged to your card on file every 30 days or before you begin your next class

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Full Tuition

$1,999

See the Installment plan FAQ for more information.

Corporate Invoice

If you’re a company enrolling your employee or an employee seeing tuition reimbursement from your company, choose Corporate Invoice at checkout.

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Why Learn at VDCI?

Hands-on training

Work on projects proven to boost retention

man studying on computer

Time-tested curriculum

Refined over many years for an optimal learning experience

Very good! Overall, I am satisfied with the course material and pace. The instructor was also very responsive when answering questions or concerns.
- Zunjie Jed Hu

woman studying online

Learn from AEC industry experts

Experienced educators who are driven to help you succeed

Receive support from course instructors

Get help when you need it

100% Online. Start Anytime

24/7 access to our premium course videos and projects.
Access to AutoCAD software (6 months)
Industry experts are assigned as your course instructor. Message your instructor with any questions.
Participate in VDCI online discussion forums — share ideas and receive additional support.
Hands-on quizzes and mini projects to test and reinforce concepts.
Complete a portfolio project with guidance and grading from an industry professional.
1-on-1 live training with an industry expert to review any course material or project.

Expert Instructors

Our instructors are veterans of their field and experienced educators, driven to help you succeed.

John O’Malley

Instructor

David Sellers

Instructor

John Menvielle

Instructor

David Nguyen

Instructor

1-on-1 Bonus Training Included

We want you to leverage the skills you’ll learn. In addition to 150 hours of hands-on, self-paced training, you’ll receive one live 1-on-1 training session where you can:

Review any concepts or projects from class
Receive assistance applying skills to your own project

Learn more and see terms and conditions

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Earn a Certificate of Completion

Upon completion of this course, you’ll receive an official certificate testifying to your mastery of the curriculum. We’ll send you a link where you can download your certificate, share it online with your friends, post it to your professional network on LinkedIn, and view all your earned certificates. Congratulations on your achievement!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course open to beginners?

Yes, this course is open to beginners. Students must be comfortable using a computer. No other prior knowledge is required.

Do you offer payment plans or student financing for this course?

Yes, this course is eligible for our installment plan.

Learn more in the Tuition section above.

How long is this course? How long will it take me to complete it?

This course is 150 clock hours. Clock hours is the total estimated course time including watching the course videos and completing the projects. The time varies by student.
Assuming that you work approximately 10 hours per week, you will complete this course in about 14 Weeks.

How long do I have access to the course materials?

This series includes 5 courses. You may choose when to activate each course (i.e. you can buy the course package now and activate any courses within the next 24 months). Once you activate each course, you will have 30 days to complete it (access the course materials, quizzes, projects and videos). You may request one extension of seven (7) days per course. Other extension requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Videos are not downloadable.

What is the cancellation and refund policy for this package?

For this series of 5 courses, you are entitled to a 90% refund (your payment less the nonrefundable 10% registration fee) within 30 days of purchase for any course in the bundle that you have not accessed.

What’s included with my tuition?

A hands-on learning experience working on projects and exercises, which is proven to boost comprehension, retention, and engagement
Expert instructors who are industry professionals and experienced educators that are driven to help you succeed
A comprehensive program with 5 in-depth course modules designed to build your skills progressively
Extensive video training resources to support your learning journey
Access to AutoCAD software (6 months) during your training
AutoCAD Certified User Exam with retake
Expert support with answers to your questions from real instructors throughout your learning journey
Professional feedback on your final project from an industry expert to help improve your skills
Additional personalized 1-on-1 bonus training with an industry expert to reinforce concepts
Top-notch curricula that have been tried and tested over many years and are consistently improved for an optimal learning experience
A certificate of completion to verify your accomplishment
The confidence of learning at an accredited institution
Assessment tools including quizzes to reinforce your learning and track your progress

Are there any additional fees or expenses?

There are no extra fees or taxes for our courses. The price you see on this page is the maximum you’ll pay us.

Do you offer any discounts for this course?

This program is a discounted package of classes that is 15–25% off the individual class prices, so additional discounts do not apply.

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AutoCAD Certification Course Overview

The AutoCAD Certification Course is a comprehensive training designed to equip students with the drafting skills necessary for professional work in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. Additionally, this course will prepare you for the Autodesk Certification Exam for AutoCAD. This course progresses from fundamental concepts to advanced techniques in creating detailed, industry-standard construction documents.

By completing this course, you will:

Master AutoCAD's interface, core functionalities, and industry-standard workflows
Develop professional drafting techniques, including precision tools for creating floor plans, elevations, sections, and details
Learn best practices for creating and managing layers, blocks, and external references to optimize workflow
Understand title block setup, sheet layouts, and how to format documents for plotting and publishing
Work with dimensioning, annotation styles, and CAD standards used in professional construction documents
Gain hands-on experience applying AutoCAD to architectural, mechanical, electrical, and structural drawings
Prepare for the Autodesk Certified Certification Exam, earning an industry-recognized credential
Develop the ability to interpret blueprints, integrate CAD drawings into larger projects, and collaborate with engineers and architects

Autodesk AutoCAD Certification Exam Overview

The AutoCAD Certification Exam is a professional qualification designed to validate an individual’s expertise in Autodesk AutoCAD, one of the most widely used Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software tools in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. The AutoCAD certification exam demonstrates proof of fundamental skills in building design and drafting using AutoCAD software. It showcases a candidate's ability to create and edit technical drawings, manage layouts, and apply annotations effectively. Learn how you can prepare for the AutoCAD Certification Exam here.

There are two levels of AutoCAD Certification Exams for AutoCAD users: the Autodesk Certified User (ACU) and the Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP). Both certifications validate your expertise, but they cater to different levels of experience and skill sets. For AutoCAD, Autodesk offers one exam per level.

AutoCAD Certified User (ACU) Exam Overview

The Autodesk Certified User (ACU) for AutoCAD certification exam is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate foundational skills and proficiency in AutoCAD software. This certification is ideal for students and professionals beginning their careers in design and drafting. The exam focuses on key competencies such as creating and editing drawings, working with layouts, and utilizing annotations effectively. This exam typically takes 50 minutes to complete, including a combination of multiple-choice and performance-based questions. By earning the ACU certification, candidates validate their knowledge and set themselves apart in the competitive design and drafting industries.

AutoCAD Certified Professional (ACP) Exam Overview

The Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in AutoCAD for Design and Drafting exam is the ultimate credential for professionals who want to validate and showcase their expertise in AutoCAD. Recognized across industries, this certification proves your advanced skills in design and drafting, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. VDCI's AutoCAD Certification Course prepares you for this certification and includes a free exam voucher with online proctoring.

The ACP exam is designed for individuals with advanced AutoCAD skills and extensive real-world experience. It tests your ability to solve complex design challenges and your understanding of AutoCAD workflows. Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in the following key areas:

Drafting concepts and standards
Setting up, managing, and organizing drawings
Linking and referencing external files and data
Authoring and editing drawing content
Applying annotations and detailing to drawings
Using collaboration tools
Managing design outputs effectively

The exam comprises 45-60 questions and typically takes 120 minutes to complete and is proctored online through VDCI. The format includes multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, hot-area, and graphic-interpretation questions. These methods are designed to assess both your theoretical knowledge and practical AutoCAD skills.

Key details include:

Available in English
Cost: $200 (included in VDCI's AutoCAD Certification course)
Certification validity: 3 years
Retesting is required for renewal

How VDCI Prepares You for the AutoCAD Certification Exam

As an Autodesk Learning Partner and Training Center, VDCI provides high-quality, industry-approved courses to help students and professionals develop job-ready skills using Autodesk tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and more. Our partnership with Autodesk ensures that our training aligns with the latest industry standards and best practices.

VDCI is committed to equipping students with practical, industry-standard skills that provide a solid foundation for success in the AutoCAD Certification Exam. Our teaching approach combines real-world project-based learning with proven instructional methods to ensure students grasp the core functionalities and advanced techniques for AutoCAD.

VDCI offers a comprehensive AutoCAD Certification Course designed to prepare individuals for success on the AutoCAD certification exam. The course provides in-depth training on essential AutoCAD tools and workflows, ensuring participants develop a strong foundation in design and drafting. Through practical, hands-on exercises and real-world projects, students master key concepts such as creating and editing technical drawings, working with layouts, and applying annotations. VDCI's experienced instructors guide learners every step of the way, providing personalized support and insights into industry best practices. By completing this course, participants gain the knowledge and confidence needed to excel on the certification exam and advance their careers in the design and drafting industries.

Some key features of VDCI's AutoCAD training include:

Hands-On Learning: Courses are designed with hands-on exercises that simulate real-world challenges
Experienced Instructors: Learn from industry-expert instructors who have years of AEC experience
Flexible Learning Options: Participate in online courses that fit your schedule
Dedicated Support: Dedicated instructor and support staff to guide you 1:1
Certified Training: Autodesk-approved training by Autodesk Certified Instructors

What You Get:

Free Autodesk Software: Free access to the AutoCAD software ($2,023/year)
Free Certification Exams: Free exam voucher ($200 retail) with 1 retake
Flexible Learning: Self-paced online learning options
VDCI Certificates: AutoCAD Course Completion Certificates
Autodesk Certificates: Autodesk Course Completion Certificates

VDCI also offers certification training for other AEC-related Autodesk certification exams, including Civil 3D Infrastructure Design, Revit Architectural Design, Revit Mechanical Design, Revit Electrical Design, and Revit Structural Design. Below are the courses that will prepare you for these certifications:

AutoCAD & Civil 3D Certification Course prepares you for the Civil 3D certification exam
Revit MEP Certification Course prepares you for Revit Mechanical & Revit Electrical certification exams
Revit Structure Certification Course prepares you for the Revit Structural Design certification exam

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are VDCI courses aligned with Autodesk certification exams?

Yes, VDCI courses are designed to prepare students for the Autodesk Certification Exams. VDCI is an Autodesk Learning Partner and Approved Autodesk Training Center. All of our instructors and course developers are Autodesk Certified Instructors.

Does VDCI offer Autodesk Certification Exams?

Yes, VDCI offers a free certification exam for each certification course completed.

Does VDCI facilitate the proctoring of the Autodesk Certification Exams?

Yes, VDCI facilitates the proctoring of Autodesk Certification exams. VDCI coordinates with Certiport and Pearson VUE to provide exam vouchers and schedule online proctored exams via Zoom. VDCI will coordinate all of these steps with the student directly.

How and when do I get the exam voucher?

To receive your exam voucher, you’ll need to reach out to us. We will then confirm that you have completed all the necessary requirements. Once verified, our team will purchase the voucher from Certiport and coordinate a time for you to take your exam. You can choose to take the Autodesk Certified User (ACU) exam or the Autodesk Professional (ACP) exam.

How can I take the certification exam? Is it remote or in person?

Once you receive your exam voucher, you’ll take the exam online with a live remote proctor via Zoom. We will coordinate and schedule your exam session to ensure a smooth testing process.

Who should take the AutoCAD Certification Exam?

The exam is designed for architects, drafters, building designers, construction engineers, and construction professionals who want to formally validate their AutoCAD expertise.

The ACU is ideal for students and professionals beginning their careers in design and drafting.

The ACP is ideal for professionals with 400–1200 hours of AutoCAD experience in an architectural or design environment. Whether you're an experienced drafter, a design professional, or someone looking to validate your skills for career advancement, this certification can help set you apart.

How many hours of software practice do I need to be prepared to take the exam?

The recommended practice hours vary depending on the certification level:

Entry-level certifications (Autodesk Certified User): Typically require 100-200 hours of hands-on experience with the software
Advanced certifications (Autodesk Certified Professional): Usually require 400-1200 hours of practical experience due to the increased complexity of the exam

Installment Plan Breakdown for AutoCAD Certification Course Online

Each installment is charged to your card on file one week before the start of the associated course. The payment schedule may vary if the courses are taken in a different order.

Installments		List Price
$579.00	Deposit – Intro to AutoCAD Course Online	$579
$579.00	Intermediate AutoCAD Course Onlne	$579
$579.00	AutoCAD Construction Documents I Course Online	$579
$262.00	AutoCAD Construction Documents II Course Online	$579
▴ The certificate discount of $896 has been applied
Free	CAD Detailing	$579
$1,999.00	Total You Pay

See the Installment plan FAQ for more information.