AutoCAD is the world’s most popular computer-aided design (CAD) software. Millions of professionals across the globe use it every day to create blueprints, survey maps, floor plans, building models, and more. Known as the industry standard, AutoCAD was first released in 1982 by the software company Autodesk. This powerful and collaborative tool makes 2D and 3D designing more accurate and efficient and is a must-have skill for professionals in several industries.
Adding AutoCAD skills to your resume will help you stand out in today’s competitive job market and boost your salary potential. And if you’re already employed, learning this popular software can accelerate your career path or help you pivot to a new and exciting job opportunity. It’s also a key skill to acquire if you want to start a side gig as a freelancer or pick up a new hobby like furniture design or personal 3D printing. So where do you begin? Whether you’re an AutoCAD newbie or a seasoned pro looking to elevate your skills, several live online and on-demand courses are available to meet your needs. Here’s a list of the 10 Best Online AutoCAD Classes to help get you started:
The 10 Best Online AutoCAD Classes
- ONLC Training Centers—AutoCAD for Novice Users (Live Online)
- Noble Desktop—AutoCAD Bootcamp (Live Online)
- Future Media Concepts—AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials (Live Online)
- NYC Career Centers—Beginner AutoCAD (Live Online)
- Cerstaffix—AutoCAD Essentials (Live Online)
- NYIM Training—AutoCAD Bootcamp (Live Online)
- Technical Institute of America—AutoCAD Level 1 (Live Online)
- D3 Technologies—AutoCAD Essentials Tools (Live Online)
- LinkedIn Learning—AutoCAD 2025 Essential Training (On-Demand)
- Udemy—AutoCAD Complete Course (On-Demand)
#1: ONLC Training Centers—AutoCAD for Novice Users (Live Online)
ONLC’s AutoCAD for Novice Users is geared toward students with limited CAD, drafting, or architectural design experience. The course covers the essential core topics of working with AutoCAD and helps students go from beginner to skilled user in a week. Students will start with learning tools to help create and edit a basic 2D drawing and then move on to more advanced concepts throughout the week. Advanced topics include editing hatches, dimensioning concepts, creating and modifying tables, and working with object properties. Students will work on mechanical, architectural, and civil projects throughout the class. While not every AutoCAD command or option is covered, students will learn the key tools and concepts to work effectively with the software.
Key Information
This full-time, five-day class meets seven hours daily and costs $2,495. Payment is due before the course starts. ONLC does not offer scholarships but does offer group discounts. Students also have the option to purchase an AutoCAD Certification Bundle, which includes training, exam prep, and an exam voucher at a discounted price. Students can attend the class live online from their home or office or access one of ONLC’s 300 computer labs in the U.S. These training centers are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology, which is helpful for students who may not have access to a working computer or fast internet connection. No prior working knowledge of CAD software is required for this course. However, students must have experience using the Windows operating system. Please note students attending class from home should use a wheeled mouse—trackpads are not sufficient because AutoCAD relies heavily on selecting points and right-clicking for additional menus. Also, this class is not designed for AutoCAD for Mac software.
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ONLC allows one opportunity for students to retake the same course at no additional charge within 12 months of the original class. AutoCAD for Novice Users also provides extra time for practice labs and review sessions so that students can master the skills and concepts. This course is offered about once a month, and ONLC notes it’s popular and sells out early. Jean said, "The class is awesome! The instructor spoke very clearly and was very knowledgeable and patient." Linda added, "I recommend ONLC courses to other individuals who require additional software skills with limited time availability.” Carol praised ONLC’s computer lab setting: "I loved the fact that even though I was in a class with other people, the actual physical space was private and quiet and very conducive to learning.”
#2: Noble Desktop—AutoCAD Bootcamp (Live Online)
Noble Desktop’s live online AutoCAD Bootcamp combines its beginner and intermediate classes into one comprehensive course. Taught by expert instructors, this course covers basic drawing and modifying techniques for drafting and technical drawing and then moves on to more advanced tools. In this hands-on class, students learn how to create designs for building mechanical and architectural objects and create and edit a basic 2D drawing. Through hands-on projects, students learn to create templates with defined layouts for printing sheets by setting units, drawing limits, and using scales. The course also covers how to use the AutoCAD interface to complete advanced layer and block techniques.
Key Information
The tuition for Noble’s AutoCAD Bootcamp is $949. This includes supplemental materials, a certificate of completion, and a one-year free retake policy. Students can retake all or part of the course for free within that time. Payment is due before the class starts. This course does not qualify for payment plans or student financing. There are no extra fees for this class. If you plan to take the course live online, you’ll need to download the AutoCAD software. The instructor will help you download a free software trial before the class. If you attend the course in-person, Noble provides computers with all required software at no additional cost. This course is designed for PC users, and in-person classes are PC-only. Mac users may attend online but should be aware that the Mac AutoCAD graphic interface differs from the PC version, which is what the instructor uses and the class focuses on. Students must be comfortable using a computer to take the AutoCAD Bootcamp, but no other prior knowledge is required. This hands-on 30-hour bootcamp is available as a full-time, five-day class or a ten-session, part-time course.
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The AutoCAD Bootcamp is taught in-person in NYC or live online via the Zoom platform from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. Students can access recordings of each session for one month after it ends. A single free retake of the course is also available within a year. Upon completing the AutoCAD Bootcamp, students receive a link to an official certificate of completion shareable online with friends or professional networks on LinkedIn. In reviews, students praised the bootcamp: Susan said, “Noble Desktop offers efficient, thorough classes for learning these programs. There's enough repetition to get you used to the workflow without slowing the pace.” Albert praised the NYC location and trainers: “The staff and instructors were very friendly and kind. The venue was spacious, clean, and well-equipped, with classrooms well-maintained and stocked will all the necessary equipment…highly recommend.”
#3: Future Media Concepts (FMC)—AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials (Live Online)
AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials helps students learn how to navigate the user interface and fundamental features of AutoCAD. FMC’s instructors hold manufacturer’s certifications and have extensive training experience. Students learn to use precision drafting tools to develop accurate technical drawings and prepare for a successful career. Topics covered include essential drawing tools and commands, working with objects and blocks, project organization, printing, adding text/dimensions/annotations, and more.
Key Information
AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials is a full-time, three-day course offered about six times per year. This class requires knowledge of basic computer navigation in addition to basic design/drafting procedures and terminology. This class costs $1,495; payment is due before the course starts. Discounts are available for government and education workers and individuals buying multiple classes or registering as a group. Satisfaction is guaranteed, and students can retake the same course at no charge for up to three months from course completion.
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FMC offers a small-class format allowing 1-on-1 time with instructors as needed. In reviews, students were pleased with FMCs instructors and the overall value of their courses. Helga said, “Future Media Concepts gathered awesome experts, and I can't wait to attend again next year!“ Eddie added, “The sessions were valuable, and the price tag was unbeatable. Great value for their customers.” FMC also caters to learners at all levels: “Thanks, FMC, for being an affordable and fast option for older, working students, and thanks for making the learning process easy and very convenient, ” said Dana.
#4: NYC Career Centers—Beginner AutoCAD (Live Online)
The three-day Beginner AutoCAD course at NYC Career Centers is geared toward students with no prior knowledge of AutoCAD and is available in-person in NYC or live online. This project-based course helps students learn the foundational skills to create 2D designs. Topics covered include basic drawing, editing and viewing tools, adding text, hatching, dimensions, advanced plotting and publishing options, and more.
Key Information
The tuition for the Beginner AutoCAD course is $599 and includes a free retake of all or part of the course within a year. This course does not qualify for payment plans or student financing. Payment for the class is due before the course starts. Students must be comfortable using a computer, but no other prior knowledge is required. This hands-on course features 18 hours of instruction and is offered full or part-time.
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NYC Career Centers Beginner AutoCAD is taught in-person or live online from anywhere by an expert instructor via the Zoom platform. Beginner AutoCAD is taught in a small group setting, and students praised the value and overall experience. Michael said, “For the money, you can’t come close to getting a better experience for your first time trying to learn this program. A true no-pressure and learn-at-your-own pace experience.” Kaliope added, “I learned so much in such a short time. The instructor was very knowledgeable and explained it so that any level can understand.”
#5: Certstaffix Training—AutoCAD Essentials (Live Online)
The AutoCAD Essentials course helps students learn to create, modify, and work with 2D drawings in AutoCAD. This hands-on beginner course covers the software’s essential tools, like basic drawing and editing. Then it moves to more advanced tools and commands, including plotting, layering, adding text, hatching, and dimensions.
Key Information
The live online AutoCAD Essentials course costs $1,730 for a full-time, three-day class. Payment is due for the course before the session begins. Groups of ten or more qualify for discounted pre-paid vouchers and group training. A working knowledge of basic design/drafting procedures and terminology is required for this class. This course is not appropriate for Mac versions of AutoCAD. A virtual computer with all necessary software and files is provided to students for the class duration.
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AutoCAD Essentials runs one to two times monthly, and students earn a certificate of completion at the end of the course. Students praised the structure of Cerstaffix classes and the expert instruction. Donald C. said, “Class was well structured, and (there was) plenty of time for one-on-one training when needed.” Avery K. appreciated the thorough content: “Amazing…everything was explained easily and completely.”
#6: NYIM Training—AutoCAD Bootcamp (Live Online)
NYIM Training’s AutoCAD Bootcamp is a beginner course where students learn basic drawing and modifying techniques for drafting and technical drawing. Topics covered include the basic methods of printing and plotting layouts and sheets, how to work between model space and paper space, and how to scale drawings through viewports. Students learn from industry experts how to master techniques for inserting blocks, making text, dimensioning drawings, working with layers and templates, and more. This bootcamp will take students from beginner to advanced users in just days.
Key Information
The tuition for the AutoCAD Bootcamp is $949 and includes supplemental materials and a verified digital certificate of completion. Payment is due before the course starts, and a one-year retake policy that allows students to repeat all or part of the course for free within that time. This hands-on 30-hour bootcamp is available as a full-time, five-day class or a ten-session, part-time course. There are no extra fees for this class. If you plan to take the course live online, you’ll need to download the AutoCAD software. The instructor will help you download a free software trial from the Autodesk website before the class starts. If you attend the course in-person, NYIM provides computers with all required software at no additional cost. Students must be comfortable using a computer to take the AutoCAD Bootcamp, but no other prior knowledge is required. This course is designed for PC users, and in-person classes are PC-only. Mac users may attend online but should be aware that the Mac AutoCAD graphic interface differs from the PC version, which is what the instructor uses and the class focuses on.
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You can attend NYIM’s AutoCAD Bootcamp in-person at its training center in NYC or live online anywhere via the Zoom platform. Students enjoy the small class sizes, which help to facilitate individual attention. Jacob D. said, “I’ve taken courses at other facilities before, but this one tops the charts. Worth every penny! The instructors are smart and take the time to make sure you understand the nuances of the program.” Students also praised the class handouts: “The course was very thoughtfully laid out, with easy-to-follow materials provided. The teacher was great and answered all questions well, ” said Chris G.
#7: Technical Institute of America—AutoCAD Level 1 (Live Online)
AutoCAD Level 1 is an ideal course for beginners who want to learn how to use AutoCAD commands and tools to create drawings using a variety of shapes. The class starts with topics like basic drawing and copying commands and moves on to layers, viewports, hatch commands, and more.
Key Information
AutoCAD Level 1 is available live online or in-person in New York City. The course runs about once a month and includes three full days of instruction. Tuition for the class is $749 and includes a textbook and certificate of completion. Discounts are available for onsite training of groups of two or more. There are no prerequisites for this class, but students are required to have a recent working version of AutoCAD installed on their computer. Free trials are available to download at Autodesk.
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AutoCAD Level 1 includes free unlimited retakes for up to one year. The course is taught by an expert Autodesk Certified Instructor with over ten years of experience using and teaching AutoCAD. James F. said, "The course was presented in a clear manner that was easy to follow…excellent AutoCAD instructor." Carolyn W. also praised the content of the course: “I struggled with CAD for years; this course helped me fill in the gaps I was missing. I recommend this course to anyone looking to learn CAD."
#8: D3 Technologies—AutoCAD: User Interface & Basic Drawing (Live Online)
AutoCAD: User Interface & Basic Drawing is a compact four-hour course for beginners covering the basics of AutoCAD. Students learn the software’s layout, how to access commands, use a pointing device, and understand the Cartesian workspace. In addition, students will learn to create using basic drawing and editing commands combined with viewing options.
Key Information
The AutoCAD: User Interface & Basic Drawing course costs $334.75. This one-day class includes four hours of instruction. To take this course, students must have basic computer skills and general mechanical industry knowledge of design and drafting. System requirements for the course include a Google Chrome browser, 5Mbps wired internet connection, a webcam, two-way audio (headset or other), and dual monitors.
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D3 Technologies features small class sizes and expert instructors. One student said, “The instructor did a fantastic job teaching the course material and engaging all of the students. I look forward to my next class!” Another said it was great for beginners: “I had no prior interactions with AutoCAD, but the instructor helped the process of getting started go smoothly and helped to get my confidence up.”
#9: LinkedIn Learning—AutoCAD 2025 Essential Training (On-Demand)
LinkedIn Learning features over 5,000 courses and videos on a variety of topics, including hundreds on the AutoCAD software. AutoCAD 2025 Essential Training teaches students how to get the most out of AutoCAD’s processes and workflows to become a more efficient and productive user. This beginner/intermediate course covers using the ribbon, choosing workspaces, and working with built-in tools like ViewCube and Navigation Bar to design projects and drawings. In addition, students learn tips for managing units and options, drawing and modifying objects, working with dimensioning techniques, and more. Taught by a Certified Autodesk Instructor, this course helps students quickly build the skills needed to create and share AutoCAD designs.
Key Information
Students can purchase AutoCAD 2025 Essential Training for $49.99 or a LinkedIn Learning subscription for $39.99 monthly. Students who sign up for an annual membership receive a one-month free trial. Purchasing a yearly membership saves $20 a month compared to the monthly price. AutoCAD Essentials Training includes 116 videos led by an Autodesk Certified Instructor. The course takes about ten hours to complete, and LinkedIn informs students a week before the free trial period is due to end. Before taking this course, students should know how to work with Windows-based applications and their operating systems.
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All students receive a certification of completion once they finish the class. LinkedIn also gives students access to quizzes to help test their course knowledge. In addition, LinkedIn Learning subscriptions include free access to LinkedIn Premium, which features added benefits like unlimited profile viewing, job and salary insights, career resources, and more. Students gave the course positive reviews and said it’s helpful for all levels of users. Peter H. said, “Very informative for beginners to learn from.” Mary S. said, “Very nice … 30+ years of experience and still was able to learn a tip or two.” Students also found it easy to follow along with the course: “Great experience, clear explanation, easy to watch and listen to, the transcript was very useful to learn terms used in AutoCAD, ” said Jakub P.
#10: Udemy—AutoCAD Complete Course (On-Demand)
Udemy offers thousands of on-demand courses covering tech, business, design, and more. Students can access classes on Udemy 24/7 from anywhere on any device. The courses follow a lecture format, which may include videos, slides, texts, and exercises. There are several AutoCAD classes available, including the AutoCAD Complete Course. This course helps students feel comfortable using AutoCAD and quickly start building layouts from scratch. Created by a professional CAD Designer and Instructor, this class teaches students how to master beginner to advanced AutoCAD tools and techniques, including XRefs, layout tools, and 3D modeling.
Key Information
This AutoCAD Complete Course includes 11.5 hours of on-demand video and four downloadable resources. The class is designed for beginners, and no prior knowledge of AutoCAD is required. Students must have basic computer skills and a Windows version of the AutoCAD software, preferably year 2001 or later. The price for the AutoCAD Complete Course is $129.99. Total payment is due upfront, but students have a 30-day money-back guarantee. Students can buy the class outright or purchase a Personal Plan starting at $16.58 monthly (after a free trial). Please note: The Udemy Personal Plan is currently in the pilot stage; see the Udemy website for details.
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Students receive a certificate of completion at the end of the course. Participants reviewing the class were pleased overall with the instructors and content. Don M. said, “This course was amazing. The instructor was incredibly knowledgeable and did a great job conveying information in a way that was easy to follow and not overwhelming.” Jose M. added, “Very clear and concise. This course took it step by step and explained everything I should know in detail.” Laura M. said, “Loved this course! It helped me so much.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Different Types of Online AutoCAD Classes?
There are two formats to choose from when starting your AutoCAD online learning journey: live online or on-demand courses. Live online courses are taught by a remote instructor via a video conferencing platform like Zoom. Generally, a CAD industry expert or Certified Autodesk Instructor will lead the lessons while students participate online from their homes, offices, or anywhere with a reliable internet connection. Some live online classes also have the option for students to be in a classroom with the instructor while other participants will join online simultaneously. In addition, some training schools allow students to access their computer labs around the U.S., where they participate in courses led by live remote instructors.
Live online courses offer many of the same benefits as in-person instruction. For example, with live online learning, students can ask questions and interact with instructors and other students in real-time. It’s also a flexible way to learn if you have a full-time job, have family commitments, or live in a rural area where no in-person classes are available.
In contrast, on-demand classes feature pre-recorded videos that students can access whenever and wherever they choose. While live online classes require you to attend at a certain time and day, on-demand courses allow you to learn at your own pace and convenience. You also have the option to rewatch the videos as many times as you need to help reinforce your learning. On-demand classes are generally more affordable than live online classes and are accessible through subscription platforms that include a free trial. While on-demand courses provide some benefits, keep in mind that you cannot interact with a live instructor to ask questions and gain valuable feedback when learning this way.
What Will I Need for an Online AutoCAD Class?
To take an online course, students need a computer with a reliable internet connection and a copy of the AutoCAD software. You can purchase and download AutoCAD from the Autodesk website or take advantage of their free 30-day trial. Many training schools offer students tech assistance with their home computer setups before starting a course, so you don’t have to worry about technical issues. To run AutoCAD, Autodesk recommends a fast processor, minimum memory storage of 8GB, and at least 8GB of RAM (16GB is optimal). Please note that many online courses are geared toward Windows users rather than Mac, so make sure you have the right equipment before enrolling in a class.
Can I Learn AutoCAD Online for Free?
Yes, you can learn AutoCAD for free online. But before you dive in, there are some important factors to consider. First, AutoCAD is a complex software with many tools and commands. While it’s certainly possible to teach yourself basic AutoCAD concepts through YouTube videos and online tutorials, experts agree the best way to learn the software thoroughly is in a structured course taught by an expert instructor. However, browsing the many free resources online can be an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the software before taking a class. You will find an endless supply of free AutoCAD tutorials on YouTube; just be sure to watch the most recent videos since the software is frequently updated. Another option to explore is the free video tutorials, blogs, and resources on the Autodesk website. You can also consider joining an online AutoCAD forum on websites like CADForum, CADTutor.net, Reddit, and Facebook. These communities are a fun and effective way to connect with peers, ask questions, share information, and collaborate on projects. Forums allow you to network in real-time with like-minded individuals and keep up with the latest industry trends—at no cost.
Is It Better to Learn AutoCAD in a Live or Self-paced Class?
The course format you choose to learn AutoCAD will depend on a few important factors, including your learning style, schedule, budget, and motivation. For example, if you’re the type that thrives in a classroom setting where you can interact with instructors and fellow students, then live online learning is your best bet. Learning AutoCAD live online allows you to receive valuable instructor feedback and network with peers—something you won’t benefit from in a self-paced course. Also, live online learning requires you to adhere to a set schedule and follow a structured curriculum with deadlines and an instructor holding you accountable. In contrast, self-paced classes allow you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, whenever you choose. But remember that the self-paced format requires a lot of self-motivation and discipline, and AutoCAD is a complex software that may be challenging to learn independently. Of course, you may have family and job commitments or a tight budget that prevents you from attending a live online class. In that case, self-paced learning would be your best choice since it’s a convenient and affordable way to learn.