Best Online AutoCAD Classes

What is AutoCAD?

Invented by Autodesk, AutoCAD is the most widely used computer-aided design (CAD) software worldwide. It is used to create architectural, construction, and engineering blueprints, schematics, and models. Released by Autodesk in 1982, AutoCAD makes 2D and 3D designing more efficient by letting you draw and edit digital designs more quickly and easily than you could by hand. The files can also be effortlessly saved and stored in the cloud, so you can access them anywhere at any time. 

Before the dawn of computers, a designer would have to revise designs manually. You would have to create an entirely new draft or edit the draft you had, which could be messy and challenging to interpret. With AutoCAD, you can change and manipulate designs, as well as create a reusable block library to replicate design parts. Saved files can be reused later, making the design process faster than if you did it by hand. Drawing by hand also limits how small of a design you can create, but AutoCAD allows you to design down to fractions. This allows for a more accurate design in all dimensions.

AutoCAD can be downloaded from Autodesk’s website, where you can purchase a subscription to keep up with the latest software versions. There are many ways to learn AutoCAD, as there are a variety of self-paced, virtual, and in-person classes and tutorials available. While there are other comparable CAD programs on the market, AutoCAD is known as the industry standard, and it is a valuable skill to add to your resume.

Best Online AutoCAD Classes

AutoCAD Fundamentals Course Bundle 

Learn AutoCAD

• Nationally accredited
• Create your own portfolio
• Free student software
• Learn at your convenience
• Authorized Autodesk training center

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This two-course bundle from VDCI includes an introduction to AutoCAD which will get you acquainted with the interface and essential commands, drawing and plotting, and help you establish a strong foundation. You’ll then progress to drafting CAD construction documents for a Habitat for Humanity initiative, enhancing your skills in creating floor plans, roof plans, and more. You’ll also explore advanced functions like block creation and external file referencing to optimize workflow.

The Intermediate AutoCAD course takes your knowledge further, teaching you to navigate complex applications and master file referencing, user coordinate systems, and dynamic viewing. You’ll also learn advanced AutoCAD commands and industry-standard drafting conventions to refine your expertise, preparing for intricate design projects.

AutoCAD Certification Course Bundle

Made up of five VDCI courses, this training bundle is designed to prepare you for the AutoCAD certification exam. You’ll enhance your AutoCAD proficiency, commencing from the fundamentals and explore the AutoCAD User Interface. Throughout this comprehensive AutoCAD learning experience, you will master the creation of construction documents—an invaluable skill set for professional workflows. These classes offer a hands-on, project-centric approach, guided by experienced instructors who are actively engaged in professional AutoCAD usage.

AutoCAD/Civil 3D Certification Training Bundle

This VDCI course bundle is geared towards students with no AutoCAD experience. You’ll learn the fundamentals of AutoCAD and then advance into Civil 3D which uses the backbone of AutoCAD to leverage the specific tools in Civil 3D. This series of classes will prepare you for the Autodesk Certified Professional in Civil 3D for Infrastructure Design. All classes are hands-on and use real-world projects. Every instructor is a practicing professional who uses AutoCAD and Civil 3D on a daily basis.

What Can You Do with AutoCAD Training?

With this industry-standard software for CAD and drafting, you can create, edit, and collaborate across desktop, web, and mobile devices. By using AutoCAD, you can produce precise 2D and 3D drawings and models, electrical diagrams, construction drawings, interior designs, and more. 

AutoCAD is a versatile software featuring many industry-specific tools and features, making the design process more accessible through its many automation and customization tools. Because of this, it is a popular and vital tool for professionals in many industries, including interior design, project management, machining, manufacturing, architectural design, and engineering. The software allows team members to share and collaborate seamlessly on projects across their devices from anywhere. 

For example, you could leverage AutoCAD to create a detailed floor plan for a client’s new house, measuring and placing doors and windows accurately. Plus, AutoCAD’s 3D tools can turn the 2D plan into a 3D model, allowing clients to virtually walk through the house before it’s even built.

AutoCAD can also be used to design engineering projects like a bridge. The software allows you to draw the bridge’s support structures and calculate their load-bearing capacities to find out how much weight each part can handle., ensuring the bridge is safe for cars and people.

If you’re designing a new electronic device, AutoCAD can come in handy. The 3D modeling features can visualize how the device will look from different angles, helping to refine the design before production.

AutoCAD can also be used in the entertainment industry to design sets, stage layouts, and lighting. It helps set designers create detailed and functional sets for theaters, concerts, and film productions. Lighting designers can simulate and test out lighting effects to achieve the desired effects.

As you can see, the applications for AutoCAD are many, and its usefulness is only increasing as technologies and industries become more innovative. Becoming certified in AutoCAD can make you more marketable in a variety of fields and help you create a fulfilling and successful career. 

What Will I Learn in an AutoCAD Class?

AutoCAD is a multifaceted tool, so it comes as no surprise that there's a lot you can learn in an AutoCAD course. Below is a brief list of the top general skills you’ll master as an AutoCAD student, including both hard and soft skills. All of these will serve you well when applying, interviewing, and working in an AutoCAD role. 

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Expert communication skills are a must-have for AutoCAD professionals. You will need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders to understand project requirements, manage expectations, and meet deadlines. Employers will prefer candidates who possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to ensure smooth and efficient project delivery as well as positive relationships with team members and stakeholders. Skills like active listening, professionalism, courtesy, flexibility and adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively with team members are all needed to succeed.

Ability to Interpret Technical Drawings & Specifications

Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, like floor plans, elevations, and sections will also be essential for AutoCAD professionals. Familiarity with industry-standard symbols, conventions, and abbreviations used in technical drawings, as well as a keen attention to detail are also helpful skills to have. Understanding of technical specifications, including materials, finishes, and dimensions falls under this umbrella of skills as well. 

Advanced 3D Modeling & Drafting Skills

Advanced 3D modeling and drafting skills will help you draft detailed designs, minimizing the need for revisions. Proficiency in these skills while using AutoCAD or other relevant software, as well as knowledge of advanced modeling techniques like parametric modeling and surface modeling, will all be extremely useful. If you can create complex assemblies and parts in 3D and understand 3D printing and prototyping, you’ll be a highly desirable candidate at any company. 

Analytical & Technical Problem Solving Skills

The below skills are vital to ensuring that designs are accurate, functional, and meet the client’s needs.

• Experience in troubleshooting and resolving technical problems
• Strong mathematical and spatial reasoning skills
• Proficiency in analysis tools and software
• Ability to identify and address potential design issues
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accurate designs

Attention to Detail & Time Management

Proven ability to work efficiently and effectively while paying close attention to detail will serve you well in any job, but especially as an AutoCAD professional. Having good time management techniques (like prioritization and delegation) and experience working with strict deadlines while producing accurate, high-quality work will be of great value. Of course, strong organizational skills will help you to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, allowing you to error-free deliver projects on time.

What Kinds of Training Options are Available to Learn AutoCAD?

There are four main ways to learn AutoCAD: live in-person classes, live online courses, on-demand classes, and free resources. Each one has been outlined below so that you can consider the pros and cons. 

In-Person Classes

In-person classes are held on location at scheduled times and offer face-to-face interaction with your fellow students and your expert instructor. If you encounter any challenging material, you can ask questions in real time instead of spending unnecessary time figuring it out on your own. You are also able to work with other students, allowing you to practice teamwork skills and build relationships. This collaborative environment is available for both full-time and part-time classes and provides structure and accountability, two things that can help you succeed.

Live Online Classes

Live virtual courses are considered the middle ground between on-demand and in-person classes. You’ll attend scheduled class times from the comfort of your own home (or wherever you choose) to learn from an expert instructor. Live online classes offer instant feedback from your teacher and interactions with other students, creating the opportunity for a deeper understanding of the coursework. These classes are ideal for students that thrive in a structured learning environment but perhaps don’t live near any in-person offerings. Or, if you simply prefer online learning, then a live virtual class could be for you. 

Self-Directed 

Self-directed courses are a flexible online option for those with complicated schedules. You can attend from anywhere you choose and complete each lesson on your own time, so you can speed through easy sections and spend more time on challenging ones. But, like a live online class, you’ll still have additional support and guidance from instructors or mentors, albeit with slightly more of a delay.

On-Demand Classes

On-demand classes offer the most flexibility of any class option but don’t win any awards for speed. They do have quite a few benefits for busy professionals, though. Not only can you learn from wherever you want, you can also learn whenever you want. There are no due dates or scheduled class times, so you can take your time on challenging topics or skip over ones you’ve already mastered. 

These classes are ideal for learners with complicated schedules who need to squeeze their studying in around their work and other obligations. You’ll need to be an independent and self-motivated student to succeed in an on-demand class.

Choosing the Right Training Method for You

While each of these training options have positive attributes, they also all have disadvantages. If you rely on the accountability of live online or in-person class schedules, you may struggle to stay focused in a self-directed or on-demand course. 

When it comes to online classes, these can vary widely in cost, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the length and depth of the program. Financial assistance is sometimes available for these courses, and you can typically set up a payment plan to help make these courses more accessible, but you’ll want to seriously consider cost when making your decision. Finally, it’s very easy to lose momentum or fall behind in a self-directed or on-demand class since you won’t have any outside accountability, so these courses tend to take longer than a structured live course.

How Hard is it to Learn AutoCAD?

According to the Home Design Institute of Paris, the AutoCAD exam is considered quite difficult by prospective test-takers. A comprehensive certification exam, it covers a wide range of topics related to computer-aided design, drafting, and engineering topics. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and is intended to measure the applicant's ability to understand and apply AutoCAD principles.

To pass the AutoCAD certification exam, you’ll need a good understanding of the software and its functions. It’s best if you’ve mastered the basic commands such as zoom, pan, rotate, scale, and edit. Additionally, applicants should be familiar with plotting and plotting operations; be able to create and modify objects; know how to create dimensioning, annotations, and labels; and understand the principles of AutoCAD layer management.

While the exam may be challenging and learning the software can take substantial time, becoming certified in AutoCAD is an achievable goal. The key to success is understanding the fundamentals of AutoCAD, being willing to practice with the software, studying text material extensively, and taking part in AutoCAD coursework or tutorials.

What are the most challenging parts of learning AutoCAD?

There are several things that can be challenging about learning AutoCAD, first and foremost being if you have any previous computer-aided design (CAD) experience. AutoCAD may seem complicated and unfamiliar if you don’t have experience with similar softwares like SketchUp and MicroStation. 

Additionally, the multitude of commands and options can seem overwhelming and take some time to master. AutoCAD is an extremely detailed program that can be used in a variety of ways, so it is made up of many parts. The good news is that you don’t need to master it all at once; learn-as-you-go can easily be implemented with AutoCAD. 

While learning a new software always comes with certain challenges, anyone can become an AutoCAD expert with the right determination, passion, and willingness to learn. 

How Long Does it Take to Learn AutoCAD?

There are several factors to consider when estimating how much time it will take to get certified. The length of the course, your hours of first-hand experience, and the length of the certification exam will all impact how quickly you can become AutoCAD certified.

The length of AutoCAD courses can vary widely, but they typically last anywhere from a few months to a year. These in-depth courses let you work directly with AutoCAD software to earn the technical skills needed to work with it professionally. Additionally, you’ll be able to create a portfolio of work to prove your competency to potential employers. 

According to Autodesk, it’s recommended that you have 1200 hours of real-world AutoCAD software experience, but the minimum required is 400. They also recommend you have a general understanding of the following topics:

• Drawing and organizing objects
• Drawing with accuracy
• Advanced editing functions
• Advanced layouts, printing, and alternative outputs
• Annotation techniques
• Reusable content and drawing management

Finally, it’s important to consider the time it will take to study and then take the test. The AutoCAD exam consists of 45-60 questions and typically takes around 120 minutes to complete. It can be taken online or in person at a Pearson VUE Testing Center near you. Once your exam results have been calculated and you have passed, you will be emailed a digital badge that showcases your skills and validates your abilities with potential employers in your resume and on professional networking sites.

Can I Learn AutoCAD Free Online?

Technically, it is possible to learn AutoCAD for free online. YouTube videos, blogs, and free short workshops can all be a great way to learn the basics without investing financially. (Don’t forget to watch the most recent uploads so you’re learning the latest versions of the software.) 

AutoDesk, the company that created AutoCAD, has free online tutorials and courses through AutoDesk University. Topics cover everything from essential “tips and tricks” to industry-specific tasks and processes. Additionally, there are forums and blogs on the AutoDesk website offering connection with peers, and the ability to ask questions and share information about AutoCAD.

Websites like Udemy, Coursera, myCADsite, and CADTutor cover 2D and 3D practice drawings, basic drafting techniques, and other fundamentals. You can also find hundreds of free AutoCAD tutorials on YouTube, covering various topics, including industry-specific videos. 

But, when it comes to the more advanced skills, an in-depth training course is going to be your best option. These courses will contain a curriculum developed and taught by experts and offer you the chance to receive feedback or troubleshoot any issues with your instructor or a support team. Formal training can also provide the structure and accountability that some students need to stay focused, creating an environment where you’re more likely to succeed. So, if you’re looking to master more than just the basics, a formal course or class is a better choice than free online resources. 

What Should I Learn Alongside AutoCAD?

Learning AutoCAD is a great step towards becoming the architect or engineer of your dreams, but it’s also helpful to be knowledgeable in additional design software. Other design applications that could be beneficial are Adobe Illustrator, Adobe XD, and Adobe InDesign. Additionally, Adobe Substance 3D and AutoCAD work together, so mastering this Adobe program can be beneficial as well. Many jobs that require AutoCAD skills may also expect proficiency in additional design software. Plus, regardless of where your career will take you, gaining additional skills will always help you stand out. 

Industries that Use AutoCAD

AutoCAD is crucial in many industries including construction, manufacturing, and engineering. The construction industry in the United States is a major contributor to the economy and was valued at around $2.1 trillion in 2024. Employing millions of professionals across a variety of trades and specialties, the construction industry relies on AutoCAD to create detailed 2D and 3D drawings of building designs, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to visualize the project accurately, identify potential issues before construction begins, and communicate design details clearly to all stakeholders involved.

The U.S. manufacturing industry is one of the largest in the world, second only to China. In 2023, manufacturing contributed $2.3 trillion to the U.S. GDP. The industry employs 8.41% of the nation’s workforce, too, with 15.6 million employees nationwide. In the manufacturing industry, AutoCAD is primarily used to create precise 2D and 3D designs of products. With AutoCAD, engineers can visualize and refine their designs before production, which helps identify potential issues early on, optimize functionality, and ensure components fit together seamlessly.

The engineering field also relies heavily on AutoCAD.The U.S. engineering services market generated $387,235.9 million in revenue in 2023. And, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in architecture and engineering will grow faster than average from 2023 to 2033. AutoCAD is used to create and model designs in 2D and 3D for many engineering fields, including aerospace, civil, and mechanical engineering.

AutoCAD Job Titles and Salaries

There are many jobs you could pursue as an AutoCAD expert. You could become a Mechanical Engineer and design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices. AutoCAD is often used by Mechanical Engineers to create manufacturing processes and design motor parts, robots, and other innovative objects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, the median salary for a Mechanical Engineer is $96,000. With job opportunities projected to grow 10 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a Mechanical Engineering role.

Electrical Engineers also use AutoCAD. Like all areas of engineering, this academic discipline is a hands-on field that involves making and improving practical objects. An Electrical Engineer makes around $102,000 per year.

Civil Engineers use AutoCAD to help design bridges and roads, streamlining these developments for both the private and public sectors. On average, a Civil Engineer makes $89,000, with the potential to earn much more in a senior role. 

Finally, If you lack the education or experience for these higher-level roles, you could become an AutoCAD Designer or Drafter and make approximately $80,000 starting out. Similarly, an AutoCAD Drafter can make around $61,000, with the potential to earn upwards of $85,000 with a few years of experience. 

AutoCAD Corporate Training

If you’re looking to offer in-person or online training to your office or team, VDCI can help. They offer a variety of corporate training programs, including in AutoCAD. You can order vouchers in bulk at a discount, choose which courses are available to employees, and even let your employees choose their own schedule. Plus, you can choose to have your training hosted at a location of your choosing, live online, or at VDCI’s Manhattan office. 

With a top-notch customizable curriculum and instructors who are experts in their industries, VDCI’s corporate training is designed to cater to your business or organization’s needs. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, you can reach out to VDCI at partnerships@vdci.edu.