A guide to AutoCAD certifications

AutoCAD is an industry-standard application, and lots of people know how to use it. That can make it difficult to stand out as an AutoCAD professional. One way to distinguish yourself from all the other people who have AutoCAD on their resumes is to earn a certification. A certification is a formal credential that can only be earned by passing a standardized exam. Because it is more difficult to obtain, AutoCAD certification is valued by employers and can lead to more job options and a higher salary. If you use AutoCAD regularly or plan to do so in the future, learning more about AutoCAD certification can definitely be worth your time.

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Why get certified?

Certification validates your skills. It proves that you have a specific level of mastery because you have taken an independent exam that you can’t pass without a certain level of skill. Employers or clients who want to understand how well you can use AutoCAD won’t just have to believe your assessment or look at your portfolio. Instead, they’ll know just by seeing your certification.  

A number of research studies have shown that employers are more likely to hire candidates who are certified and pay them more than those without certification. According to the Certiport article, 91% of hiring managers consider certification when hiring. In a fact sheet titled “The Value of Certification: FAQ,” Certiport states, “In the U.S. and Canada, professionals with certifications have an average salary of $111,334, which is 7% more than non-certified professionals. In North America, someone with six or more certifications earns $13,000 more than someone with one certification.”

Many employers like certification because it not only proves that you have a certain level of mastery but also shows that you’re dedicated to learning and improving your skills. In an article titled “What Are Certifications? Definition, Benefits, Types, and Examples,” Indeed explains, “Taking the time and effort to obtain these certifications can show potential employers that you are a valuable contributor to your profession and help you gain recognition for your commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.” In addition, it maintains, certification can also improve your professional credibility, which can help you with both employers and clients.

Types of AutoCAD certifications

AutoCAD is an Autodesk product. As explained on the official website, there are four levels of certification for these applications:

• Autodesk Certified User: This shows that you have mastered foundational concepts and is a good option for beginning users. This certification is often pursued by students.
• Autodesk Certified Associate: For those trying to get a new job or advance within their existing career.
• Autodesk Certified Professional: Designed for more advanced users and intended to help them stand out in the job market. This is a common certification for working professionals.
• Autodesk Certified Expert: The highest level of certification for expert users who have extensive knowledge.

The Autodesk Certified User exam in AutoCAD is the most basic type of certification in this application. It is offered by Certiport, a third-party testing provider. The Autodesk Certified User page of the Certiport website explains the skills needed to become an Autodesk Certified User. The Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design and Drafting is a higher-level certification designed for people who work with AutoCAD professionally. It is valid for three years and can be renewed after that by retaking the exam. This exam is offered by PearsonUEe, another third-party testing provider. According to the Autodesk website, you’ll likely need 400 to 1,200 hours of real-world experience in AutoCAD and in an architectural environment to earn this certification. It states that test-takers will need to understand drafting concepts, setting up and managing drawings, linking and referencing files and data, authoring and editing content, applying annotations and details, configuring and managing design output, and working with collaborative tools.

How to get certified in AutoCAD

AutoCAD certifications are offered through third-party testing providers. For Certified User exams, you will test through Certiport. Certified Associate, Professional, and Expert exams are offered by Pearson Vue. The Autodesk Certified User exam in AutoCAD has 30 to 35 questions and takes 50 minutes. The Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design and Drafting is a 120-minute exam and has 45 to 60 questions. If you don’t pass your certification exam on your first try, you can schedule a retake right away. If you fail the second time, you’ll need to wait 72 hours before attempting another retake. 

Preparing for AutoCAD certification

An AutoCAD class is one of the best ways to prepare for certification. Any AutoCAD class is likely to be helpful; however, a class specifically focused on certification is best. The Autodesk website has a free practice course titled “AutoCAD for Design and Drafting Professional Certification Prep,” which includes self-paced lessons and a practice test. 

Many schools also offer classes specifically designed to walk you through the certification process. These courses not only cover all the skills and knowledge you’ll need–and include instructor support and feedback to make sure you’re on track–but often include the test, too. For instance, the Virtual Design and Construction Institute offers an AutoCAD Certification Course that is designed to prepare you for both the Autodesk Certified User Exam in AutoCAD and the Autodesk Certified Professional Exam in AutoCAD. As part of the class, you can choose to take one of the two exams, and you will also get a free retake if needed.