Top 11 Drafter Certifications

Certifications are an important way for a drafter to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a specific area of drafting. Having certifications can help drafters stand out in the job market, as employers are looking for candidates who have proven their knowledge and proficiency in their chosen field. With the right certifications, a drafter can show prospective employers that they have the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job. Certifications also provide recognition from industry peers and demonstrate to employers that the individual is up-to-date with current industry standards. Finally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement or further education in the field.

This article reviews the top certifications for Drafters and explains how they can help drafters advance their careers.

What are Drafter Certifications?

Drafter certification is a process by which drafters are certified to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in a particular area of drafting. The certification is typically granted by an organization that specializes in the field, such as the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). By obtaining drafter certification, drafters are able to show employers that they have the necessary qualifications and skills to perform drafting work.

The benefits of drafter certification include increased job opportunities, higher pay, and improved career advancement. With certification, drafters can demonstrate their knowledge and experience in a specific area of drafting. This provides employers with more confidence in hiring them for jobs because they know that they are properly trained and qualified for the position. Furthermore, certified drafters may be eligible for higher salaries due to their credentials. Finally, having a certified drafter on staff can lead to better career advancement opportunities since employers are more likely to promote an employee who has demonstrated mastery over a certain field.

Pro Tip: When considering drafter certification, make sure to research the certifying organization and the requirements for certification. Certification can provide a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in a specific area of drafting, but it's important to ensure that the certifying organization is reputable and that the requirements for certification are attainable.

Related: What does a Drafter do?

Top 11 Drafter Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Drafters today.

1. Certified Professional Drafter (CPD)

Certified Professional Drafter (CPD) is a professional designation that recognizes drafters who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in the field of drafting. This certification is administered by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA).

The CPD certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field of drafting through a series of tests and evaluations. The tests are designed to assess an applicant’s ability to interpret drawings, create accurate drawings, and understand drafting standards. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) software.

To become certified as a CPD, applicants must complete an approved training program or have at least two years of professional experience in the field. Once the requirements are met, applicants can submit an application for certification with ADDA. The application fee is $200 for members and $250 for non-members.

Once the application has been accepted, applicants will be required to take an online exam that covers topics such as drawing interpretation, CAD software basics, and drafting standards. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants must then submit a portfolio demonstrating their work experience in order to receive certification from ADDA.

The entire process typically takes between four and six weeks from start to finish.

2. Certified Autodesk Revit Professional (CARP)

Certified Autodesk Revit Professional (CARP) is a certification program offered by Autodesk for individuals who are proficient in using the Autodesk Revit software. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to design, document, and manage projects using the Autodesk Revit software.

To become a Certified Autodesk Revit Professional, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as creating views, families, and templates; setting up project worksets; working with materials; and understanding the building information modeling (BIM) workflow. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete.

You can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through the Autodesk Certification website. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $125 - $200 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CARP certificate from Autodesk and be listed in their online directory of certified professionals. This certification is valid for two years after which you must retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

3. Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP)

Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) is a professional certification program offered by Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation. It is designed to validate a user’s proficiency in the use of the SolidWorks 3D CAD software. This certification is recognized by employers and educational institutions as a measure of an individual’s technical skills.

The CSWP exam consists of two parts: Core and Advanced. The Core exam focuses on basic knowledge of the SolidWorks software, while the Advanced exam tests more advanced features and functions. To become certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher.

It typically takes around 8-10 hours to complete both exams, depending on your level of experience with SolidWorks. You can take the exams at any authorized testing center or online through the MySolidWorks portal.

The cost for taking the CSWP exam varies depending on where you take it and whether you are taking it online or at a testing center. Generally, it costs between $150-$200 USD for each part of the exam (Core and Advanced).

4. Certified Inventor Professional (CIP)

Certified Inventor Professional (CIP) is an advanced certification program for inventors, entrepreneurs, and innovators. It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to create successful products and services.

The CIP program consists of four courses: Product Design & Development, Business & Marketing Strategies, Intellectual Property & Licensing, and Prototype Development. Each course is divided into modules that cover topics such as product design principles, market research, patent law, prototyping techniques, business models, and more. The courses are offered online or in-person at select locations across the United States.

It typically takes around six months to complete the CIP program. Participants must complete all four courses in order to receive their certification.

In order to get certified as a Certified Inventor Professional (CIP), you must first register for the program through the National Council of Inventors website. After registering for the program, you will be able to access the course materials and begin studying for each module. Once you have completed all four courses successfully, you can submit your application for certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Inventor Professional (CIP) varies depending on which option you choose: online or in-person classes. The online option costs $2,995 while in-person classes cost $3,495 plus travel expenses if applicable.

5. Autodesk AutoCAD Certified User (ACU)

Autodesk AutoCAD Certified User (ACU) is a certification program offered by Autodesk, the leading provider of 3D design, engineering and entertainment software. The ACU certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in using AutoCAD software for creating 2D drawings and 3D models. It is a great way to demonstrate your skills to employers and can help you stand out from other applicants.

The ACU exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as drawing setup, drawing commands, editing objects, layers, dimensioning, hatching, plotting/publishing and more. The exam must be completed within two hours and there is no time limit for individual questions. To pass the exam you must score at least 70%.

The cost of the ACU exam varies depending on your location. In the US it typically costs around $200 USD. You can purchase the exam directly from Autodesk or through an authorized training center.

To become certified as an AutoCAD user you need to take an online training course or attend a classroom-based course at an authorized training center before taking the ACU exam. Depending on your prior knowledge of AutoCAD it may take anywhere from 1 day to several weeks to complete the course and prepare for the exam.

6. Autodesk AutoCAD Certified Professional (ACP)

Autodesk AutoCAD Certified Professional (ACP) is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of users who have mastered the design and drafting capabilities of Autodesk AutoCAD software. It is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals who can use Autodesk AutoCAD to create and modify drawings, designs, and 3D models.

It typically takes between one to two months to become an ACP. The process involves studying for the certification exam, completing practice exams, and taking the actual exam. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as 2D drawing techniques, 3D modeling techniques, annotation techniques, and customizing AutoCAD.

To become an ACP, you must first purchase an Autodesk Certification Exam voucher from an authorized reseller or directly from Autodesk. Once you have purchased your voucher, you can register for the exam at the Autodesk website. After registering, you will receive instructions on how to access your online practice tests and schedule your proctored certification exam appointment.

The cost of becoming an ACP varies depending on where you purchase your voucher from. Generally speaking, vouchers purchased directly from Autodesk cost around $200 USD while vouchers purchased from authorized resellers may be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on their location.

7. Autodesk Inventor Certified User (AICU)

Autodesk Inventor Certified User (AICU) is a certification program that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in Autodesk Inventor software. It is designed to validate the skills of users who are proficient in the use of Autodesk Inventor for 3D mechanical design, visualization, and simulation. This certification is ideal for anyone interested in demonstrating their knowledge and understanding of Autodesk Inventor.

The AICU certification requires the completion of a two-part exam: an online assessment and a hands-on performance-based test. The online assessment consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as basic concepts, sketching, parts modeling, assemblies, drawings, and more. The performance-based test requires the candidate to complete a series of tasks using Autodesk Inventor software within a set time limit.

The entire process typically takes between 6 and 8 hours to complete depending on the candidate’s familiarity with Autodesk Inventor software. Candidates must register for the exam through an authorized Autodesk testing center or online via Prometric or VUE testing centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $125-$175 USD per attempt.

8. Autodesk Inventor Certified Professional (AICP)

Autodesk Inventor Certified Professional (AICP) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of users in Autodesk Inventor software. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s mastery of Autodesk Inventor and its related technologies.

It takes approximately six months to complete the AICP certification process. To get certified, you must first pass the Autodesk Inventor Certified Professional Exam. This exam covers topics such as 3D modeling, assembly design, sheet metal design, drawing creation, and more. After passing the exam, you will receive your AICP certificate from Autodesk.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location and whether or not you are a member of an Autodesk user group. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$150 USD to take the exam.

In addition to passing the exam, there are other requirements for becoming an AICP certified professional. You must have at least two years of experience using Autodesk Inventor and be able to demonstrate proficiency in all areas covered by the exam. You must also agree to abide by Autodesk’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for AICP certified professionals.

9. SolidWorks Associate CSWA

SolidWorks Associate CSWA (Certified SolidWorks Associate) is a certification program offered by Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation. It is designed to assess the knowledge and proficiency of individuals who use SolidWorks software for 3D design, simulation, and analysis. The certification is valid for two years and demonstrates that an individual has a fundamental understanding of the basic principles of SolidWorks.

To get the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) certification, you must complete a 60-minute online exam consisting of 50 questions covering topics such as sketching, parts, assemblies, drawings, surfacing, sheet metal design, mold tools and weldments. You must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly in order to pass the exam.

The cost of taking the CSWA exam is $99 USD. After registering for the exam on the MySolidworks website and paying the fee, you will be given access to an online practice test to help you prepare for the real exam. Once you have completed your practice test and are ready to take the real exam, you can schedule it at any time convenient for you.

Overall, getting your Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) certification can take anywhere from one day up to several weeks depending on how much time you spend preparing for it.

10. SolidWorks Professional CSWP

SolidWorks Professional CSWP (Certified SolidWorks Professional) is a certification program offered by Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced SolidWorks users in the areas of design, analysis, and visualization.

The CSWP exam consists of two parts: a written test and a hands-on performance test. The written portion covers topics such as sketching, part modeling, assembly modeling, drawing creation, surface modeling, sheet metal design, weldments design, and mold design. The hands-on portion requires candidates to complete several tasks using SolidWorks software.

It usually takes around 6 months to prepare for the CSWP exam depending on your existing knowledge level. To get started with the preparation process you will need access to the latest version of SolidWorks software as well as some additional resources like books or online tutorials.

The cost of taking the CSWP exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD. You can find out more information about pricing and registration at www.solidworks.com/certification/pricing/.

11. Mastercam Certified Programmer/Designer

The Mastercam Certified Programmer/Designer (MCP) is a certification program offered by CNC Software, Inc., the makers of Mastercam. It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the use of Mastercam CAD/CAM software.

The MCP program consists of two levels: Level I and Level II. To become certified at either level, applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics such as geometry creation, toolpaths, machine simulations, post-processing, and more. The exam is administered through the CNC Software website.

Level I certification requires passing an online exam with a score of 70% or higher. Level II certification requires passing both the Level I exam and a hands-on programming test with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost for taking the Level I exam is $150 USD; the cost for taking the Level II exam is $300 USD. Both exams can be taken at any time from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.

Once you have passed either level of certification, you will receive an official MCP certificate from CNC Software that recognizes your achievement and serves as proof that you are qualified to program using Mastercam CAD/CAM software.

Do You Really Need a Drafter Certificate?

When it comes to drafters, the answer to whether or not you need a drafter certificate is an unequivocal yes. A drafter certificate is an official document from the drafting industry that shows you have been properly trained and certified in the use of drafting software and techniques. It is essential for those looking to pursue a career as a professional drafter, as it demonstrates both your knowledge and experience in the field.

Having a drafter certificate proves that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to work as a professional drafter. Employers will often look for these credentials when considering applicants for open positions, so having one can give you a competitive edge over other applicants who may be equally qualified but lack this certification. For example, employers may be more likely to hire someone with a certified background than someone without one.

In addition, having a certified background also helps to increase your earning potential. Certified drafters typically command higher salaries than non-certified ones due to their increased expertise and experience with drafting software and techniques. This can be especially beneficial if you are looking to move up within your current company or find a new job elsewhere.

Finally, having a certified background also increases job security, as employers are more likely to keep experienced employees on board rather than hiring new ones. This means that if you ever find yourself out of work, having this certification may help you land another job quickly since potential employers will know that you already have the necessary training and expertise required for the position.

In summary, obtaining a drafter certificate is essential for anyone looking to pursue a career in drafting. Having this certification increases your chances of getting hired by employers and can also help bring about higher salaries and greater job security.

Related: Drafter Resume Examples

FAQs About Drafter Certifications

1. What are the qualifications for drafter certification?

Answer: The requirements for drafter certification vary depending on the type of certification you pursue. Generally, certifications require a combination of formal education and/or experience in drafting, experience with specific software programs, and passing an exam.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a drafter?

Answer: It typically takes 2-3 months to complete the requirements for certification, including studying, taking practice exams and completing any necessary courses or workshops.

3. Is there a single certification that covers all types of drafting?

Answer: No, different certifications are available depending on your area of expertise and the type of drafting you do (e.g., mechanical drafting, architectural drafting, etc.).

4. How much does it cost to become certified as a drafter?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the type of certification you pursue and may include fees for classes or workshops, exam fees and membership dues. Generally speaking, expect to pay several hundred dollars in total expenses.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements after becoming certified as a drafter?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require that you maintain your certification by completing periodic continuing education credits or attending workshops/courses related to your field of expertise.