Top 10 Draftsman Certifications

Certifications are important for a draftsman in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to do their job effectively. Certifications also show employers that the draftsman has taken the time to learn and develop their skills. This gives employers assurance that they will be getting a qualified, experienced professional who can handle the task at hand. Additionally, certifications may make an individual more competitive in the job market, as they may be able to command higher wages or have access to more positions than those without certifications.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Draftsmans and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Draftsman Certifications?

Draftsman certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional's expertise in the field of drafting and design. The certification program tests a professional’s knowledge in areas such as mathematics, blueprint reading, engineering, and computer-aided design (CAD). By obtaining this certification, professionals can prove their ability to create accurate technical drawings and designs for various projects.

Draftsman certification can be beneficial for professionals in many ways. With the certification, they can demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency to employers or clients. It also helps them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Additionally, it shows their commitment to continuing education and to staying up-to-date with industry standards. Certification holders may also benefit from networking opportunities with other certified draftsmen, which could lead to more job opportunities or collaborations on projects.

Pro Tip: When considering draftsman certification, make sure to research the requirements and regulations in your state or country. Different states have different requirements for certification, so it's important to make sure that you're meeting all of the necessary criteria before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Draftsman do?

Top 10 Draftsman Certifications

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

1. Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD

Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD is a professional certification program from Autodesk that validates an individual’s expertise in the use of AutoCAD software. The certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to create, modify, and document drawings using AutoCAD software.

The exam typically takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as drafting tools, user interface, drawing commands, editing commands, layers and objects, printing and plotting, dimensioning and annotation, blocks and external references, 3D modeling tools and techniques, rendering techniques, customization options and more.

To become an Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD you will need to pass the Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD exam. This exam can be taken at any authorized Autodesk testing center or online through the Autodesk Certification website. You will need to register for the exam on the website before taking it.

The cost of the Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges between $200 - $400 USD. Once you have passed the exam you will receive an official certificate from Autodesk that confirms your certification status.

2. Autodesk Certified Professional: Revit Architecture

Autodesk Certified Professional: Revit Architecture is a professional certification program from Autodesk, the world’s leading provider of 3D design and engineering software. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in using Autodesk Revit Architecture for projects such as commercial, residential, and institutional buildings.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on project. The written exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of Revit Architecture features and functions. The hands-on project requires the candidate to create a model based on given criteria.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the individual’s experience level with Revit Architecture. Candidates must have at least one year of experience working with Revit Architecture before they can take the exam.

To get certified, candidates must first register for the exam through Autodesk's website or by calling their customer service line. Once registered, candidates must then purchase an authorized training course from an Autodesk Authorized Training Center (ATC). After completing the training course, candidates are eligible to take the written exam at any ATC location around the world. Upon passing both parts of the certification process, candidates receive their official Autodesk Certified Professional: Revit Architecture certificate in the mail.

The cost for taking the Autodesk Certified Professional: Revit Architecture certification varies depending on several factors such as which ATC you choose to attend and which version of Revit you are certified in (e.g., basic or advanced). Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on these factors.

3. Autodesk Certified Professional: Inventor

Autodesk Certified Professional: Inventor is a certification program offered by Autodesk, the makers of the popular 3D design software. This certification demonstrates that an individual has a deep understanding of the Inventor software and its capabilities. It also shows that they have the skills necessary to create complex designs and assemblies with precision accuracy.

The certification process typically takes around six months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. To become certified, individuals must first pass an online assessment that covers topics such as sketching, part modeling, assembly design, and drawing production. Once they have passed this assessment, they must then complete two additional tests—a hands-on performance test and a written exam—to demonstrate their mastery of the software.

To get started with the Autodesk Certified Professional: Inventor program, individuals must purchase a subscription to Autodesk’s Certification Program for $99 USD per year (as of 2021). This includes access to all of the training materials needed to prepare for and pass the assessments. Additionally, individuals may need to purchase additional study materials or attend instructor-led courses in order to fully prepare for their exams.

Once certified, individuals will be able to use their credentials on resumes or portfolios when applying for jobs or contracts related to Inventor design work. They will also be able to take advantage of exclusive discounts on Autodesk products and services as well as other perks from participating companies.

4. Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD

Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD is an official certification program offered by Autodesk. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals using AutoCAD software. The certification proves that the user has a fundamental understanding of 2D drawing tools, commands, and features in AutoCAD.

To become an Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD, you must pass a performance-based exam. This exam tests your ability to use the software to create, modify, and plot drawings. The exam typically takes around two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions.

In order to take the Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD exam, you must first purchase an Autodesk Certification Voucher from an authorized reseller or from the Autodesk website. The cost of the voucher varies depending on where you purchase it from but generally ranges from $100-$200 USD. Once you have purchased your voucher, you can then register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive an official Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD certificate that is valid for three years. You can also add your certification to your LinkedIn profile or resume as proof of your expertise in using AutoCAD software.

5. Autodesk Certified User: Revit Architecture

Autodesk Certified User: Revit Architecture is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and skills in using Autodesk Revit Architecture software. This certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the use of the software and provides employers with a reliable way to assess potential employees' abilities.

The Autodesk Certified User: Revit Architecture exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. It covers topics such as project setup, navigation, view manipulation, basic modeling, annotation, scheduling, printing/plotting, and collaboration.

To become certified, you must pass the Autodesk Certified User: Revit Architecture exam. The exam can be taken at any authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE. You will need to create an account with Pearson VUE before taking the exam.

The cost for the Autodesk Certified User: Revit Architecture exam varies depending on where you take it and which version of the software you are using (Revit 2020 or 2021). Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD for the online version and $200 USD for the proctored version.

6. Autodesk Certified User: Inventor

Autodesk Certified User: Inventor is a certification program that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in Autodesk Inventor, a 3D mechanical design software. The certification validates the user’s ability to create, document, and share designs using the software.

The Autodesk Certified User: Inventor certification requires passing a performance-based exam that tests an individual’s knowledge and skills in creating 3D models, assemblies, drawings, and other documents with Autodesk Inventor. The exam consists of approximately 50 questions that must be completed within two hours.

To get certified as an Autodesk Certified User: Inventor, individuals must first purchase the exam voucher from Autodesk. After purchasing the voucher, they can then register for and take the exam at any authorized Pearson VUE test center or online through Pearson VUE's OnVUE platform.

The cost of the Autodesk Certified User: Inventor exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally speaking, the cost of taking the exam in person at a Pearson VUE test center ranges from $100 to $200 USD depending on location. Taking the exam online through OnVUE costs slightly more ($125 to $225 USD).

7. SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) Certification

SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) Certification is a certification program offered by SolidWorks Corporation, a leader in 3D CAD software. The CSWA certification recognizes the skills and knowledge of users who have mastered the fundamentals of SolidWorks design tools. It is designed to validate the user’s ability to create basic parts, assemblies, and drawings in SolidWorks.

The CSWA exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. The exam covers topics such as sketching, part modeling, assembly modeling, drawing creation and management, and feature-based modeling.

To get the CSWA certification, you must first complete an online application form and pay the required fee. After your application is approved, you will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. You can take the exam at any authorized testing center or through an online proctoring service.

The cost of taking the CSWA exam varies depending on where you take it and which proctoring service you use. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD to take the exam at a testing center or through an online proctoring service.

8. SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) Certification

SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of experienced SolidWorks users. The CSWP credential demonstrates an individual’s ability to use SolidWorks software to create and analyze complex parts, assemblies, and drawings. It also shows proficiency in using the advanced features of SolidWorks such as sheet metal design, surfacing, and molding tools.

It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the certification exam depending on your experience level with SolidWorks. The exam consists of two parts: a multiple choice section and a hands-on section where you must demonstrate your ability to use SolidWorks tools to solve problems. You can take the exam at any authorized testing center or online through MySolidWorks.

The cost for the CSWP certification exam varies by country but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD. After passing the exam, you will receive a digital certificate that can be shared with employers or used as part of your portfolio.

9. Bentley Institute Accredited Drafter Certificate

The Bentley Institute Accredited Drafter Certificate is a professional certificate program designed to provide drafters with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an expert in the field of Computer Aided Design (CAD). The program consists of four courses, which cover topics such as CAD fundamentals, advanced CAD techniques, 3D modeling and drafting standards. The program takes approximately six months to complete, depending on the student’s pace and commitment.

To get the Bentley Institute Accredited Drafter Certificate, students must first complete all four required courses. After completing these courses, students must then take an exam to demonstrate their proficiency in the subject matter. Upon successful completion of the exam, students will receive their Bentley Institute Accredited Drafter Certificate.

The cost of obtaining a Bentley Institute Accredited Drafter Certificate varies depending on the institution offering the program and any additional fees associated with it. Generally speaking, tuition for this certificate program ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.

10. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Drafting and Design Technology Level I-IV Certifications

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Drafting and Design Technology Level I-IV Certifications are professional certifications that recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who work with drafting and design technology. The certifications are offered by NICET, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing certification programs for technicians in engineering technologies.

To obtain the Level I certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in drafting and design technology or have completed an approved course of study. Applicants must then pass an examination covering topics such as basic drafting principles, geometric construction, orthographic projection, dimensioning, tolerancing, and CAD software applications. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

To obtain the Level II certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in drafting and design technology or have completed an approved course of study. They must also pass an examination which covers topics such as advanced drafting principles, geometric construction, orthographic projection, dimensioning, tolerancing, CAD software applications, 3D modeling techniques and reverse engineering. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

To obtain the Level III certification applicants must have at least four years of experience in drafting and design technology or have completed an approved course of study. They must also pass an examination which covers topics such as advanced drafting principles, geometric construction, orthographic projection, dimensioning & tolerancing CAD software applications 3D modeling techniques reverse engineering & complex assemblies. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 5 hours to complete.

To obtain the Level IV certification applicants must have at least five years of experience in drafting and design technology or have completed an approved course of study. They must also pass an examination which covers topics such as advanced drafting principles geometric construction orthographic projection dimensioning & tolerancing CAD software applications 3D modeling techniques reverse engineering complex assemblies & product development processes. The exam consists of 250 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 6 hours to complete.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or through a paper/pencil format; however all exams cost $150 per level plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with your testing location/format chosen.

Do You Really Need a Draftsman Certificate?

Draftsman certificates are not required in all places, but they can be a great asset to have if you want to pursue a career in drafting. A certificate shows potential employers that you have what it takes to create accurate drawings and plans. It also lets them know that you understand the principles of drafting and the tools used in the profession.

The decision of whether or not to get a draftsman certificate depends on your individual career goals. If you are just starting out, it may not be necessary, as most entry-level positions do not require certification. However, if you are looking for more advanced positions or employment opportunities with higher pay, having a certificate could be beneficial. It is important to research the requirements for jobs you are interested in so that you can determine if certification is necessary or advantageous before investing time and money into obtaining one.

In addition to demonstrating knowledge and skills related to drafting, having a draftsman certificate can also provide additional credibility when applying for jobs. Employers will see that you have taken the initiative to become certified and that you value professional development enough to invest in yourself. This commitment can set you apart from other applicants and give employers confidence that they are hiring someone who is dedicated and capable of doing quality work.

Overall, getting a draftsman certificate may be beneficial depending on your individual situation, but it is important to do your research before deciding if this is something worth pursuing.

Related: Draftsman Resume Examples

FAQs About Draftsman Certifications

1. What is a draftsman certification?

A draftsman certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills required to create drawings, plans, and other technical documents for engineering or architecture projects.

2. How do I become certified?

To become certified as a draftsman, you must complete an accredited program in drafting technology or engineering design and pass the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certification Exam.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Being certified as a draftsman provides recognition of your skills and abilities in the industry and can open up more job opportunities with higher salaries. It also allows you to use the title “Certified Draftsman” on business cards and resumes, which can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

It typically takes between one to two years of study to complete an accredited program in drafting technology or engineering design and then pass the NCARB Certification Exam. The amount of time it takes depends on how quickly you learn the material and how much time you dedicate to studying each day or week.

5. Is there an age limit for taking the NCARB Certification Exam?

No, there is no age limit for taking the NCARB Certification Exam; however, if you are under 18 years old, you will need to have written parental consent before taking the exam.