Top 10 Technical Illustrator Certifications

Certifications are important for a technical illustrator in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality work. Certifications can also help potential employers determine if an applicant is qualified for a particular role. They provide evidence of an individual’s expertise and can be used as a way to differentiate between applicants. Additionally, certifications often allow access to specialized resources, such as software or industry contacts, which can be helpful when working on projects.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Technical Illustrators and explain how they can help to advance a technical illustrator's career.

What are Technical Illustrator Certifications?

Technical illustrator certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a person’s proficiency in creating technical illustrations. Technical illustrations are drawings, diagrams or other visual representations of scientific and engineering data used to explain complex concepts. They can be used to help explain how a product works, show the relationship between components of a system, or provide instructions for assembling or operating a device.

Technical illustrator certification can help individuals demonstrate their expertise in this field and gain recognition as an expert in technical illustration. It requires knowledge of design principles, drawing techniques, typography, digital media and more. This certification also shows employers that you have the skills necessary to accurately create technical drawings and illustrations that meet industry standards.

Having technical illustrator certification can open up many career opportunities with companies in various industries including aerospace engineering, automotive manufacturing and medical device development. Individuals who have earned this certification may also find themselves working on projects related to instructional design, product documentation and software user interfaces. In addition to gaining recognition as an expert in the field, those with technical illustrator certification may also receive higher pay rates than those without it.

Pro Tip: When considering a technical illustrator certification, it is important to research the requirements for the specific certification you are interested in. Many certifications require a certain amount of experience and/or education, and some may even require passing an exam. Additionally, look into the job market for technical illustrators in your area to ensure that the certification will be beneficial for your career prospects.

Related: What does a Technical Illustrator do?

Top 10 Technical Illustrator Certifications

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

1. Adobe Certified Expert: Illustrator

Adobe Certified Expert: Illustrator is a certification program offered by Adobe to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in Adobe Illustrator. This certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of those who use the software on a professional level.

To become an Adobe Certified Expert: Illustrator, you must pass two exams: the 9A0-388 Exam and the 9A0-389 Exam. The 9A0-388 Exam focuses on basic features of Illustrator, such as creating vector artwork, working with type and images, color management, and preparing artwork for print or web output. The 9A0-389 Exam covers more advanced topics such as creating complex illustrations, using effects and filters, working with 3D objects, using scripting tools, and automating tasks.

The cost of the two exams is $180 USD each. The exams are available online through Pearson VUE or Prometric test centers. It typically takes around 2 hours to complete each exam. Once you have passed both exams you will be awarded with an Adobe Certified Expert: Illustrator badge that can be displayed on your website or other digital media outlets.

2. Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD Illustration

Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD Illustration is a certification program created by Autodesk, the leading provider of 3D design and engineering software. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the use of AutoCAD for illustration purposes. It covers topics such as creating illustrations from existing CAD models, using advanced features like lighting, materials, and rendering, and integrating illustrations into other documents.

It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the certification exam. To get certified, you must first pass a qualifying exam that tests your knowledge in the areas of illustration, model preparation, and rendering. Once you have passed the exam, you will be eligible to take the final certification exam.

The cost for taking the Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD Illustration exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD to take the qualifying exam and $200 USD for the final certification exam.

In addition to passing the exams, there are also some prerequisites that must be met before taking either test. These include having at least six months of experience with AutoCAD or a related software package; being familiar with drawing conventions; understanding basic 3D modeling concepts; being able to create complex 3D models; and having an understanding of rendering techniques.

3. CorelDRAW Technical Suite Certification

CorelDRAW Technical Suite Certification is a professional certification program offered by Corel Corporation, the makers of CorelDRAW. The certification is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of individuals who use CorelDRAW software to create technical illustrations, diagrams, maps, and other technical graphics.

The certification consists of two levels: CorelDRAW Technical Suite Certified Professional (CTSCP) and CorelDRAW Technical Suite Certified Expert (CTSCE). The CTSCP level requires passing an online exam that covers topics such as drawing tools, layers, objects, effects, text formatting, color management, printing and exporting. The CTSCE level requires passing a more advanced online exam that covers topics such as page layout design, 3D illustration techniques and animation.

To get certified at either level you must first purchase the appropriate exam from the Corel Store or from a third-party vendor. After purchasing an exam you will be given access to an online training course that covers all of the topics on the exam. You must then pass the online exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive your certification.

The cost for each exam varies depending on where you purchase it from. Generally speaking it costs around $100 for each level of certification. It typically takes between one and two hours to complete each exam depending on your familiarity with CorelDRAW software.

4. Adobe Certified Associate: Visual Communication Using Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Certified Associate: Visual Communication Using Adobe Illustrator is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the skills necessary to create digital graphics, illustrations, and typography using Adobe Illustrator software. The certification is offered by Adobe in partnership with Certiport, an independent testing organization.

To become certified as an Adobe Certified Associate: Visual Communication Using Adobe Illustrator, you must pass a performance-based exam that tests your knowledge of the features and functions of the software. This exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete.

You can register for the exam through Certiport’s website or through an authorized testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location and may be subject to additional taxes or fees. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $95-$150 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an official certificate from Certiport that verifies your certification status as an Adobe Certified Associate: Visual Communication Using Adobe Illustrator. This certificate is valid for two years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking a new version of the exam when it becomes available.

5. Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD for Technical Illustration

Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD for Technical Illustration is an industry-recognized certification that validates a user’s skills in creating technical illustrations with AutoCAD software. This certification is ideal for illustrators, designers, and engineers who need to demonstrate their proficiency in the use of AutoCAD for technical illustration.

It typically takes around 8 hours to complete the Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD for Technical Illustration exam. The exam consists of 40 questions covering topics such as 2D drawing, 3D modeling, annotation, plotting, and other related topics.

To get certified, you must first purchase an Autodesk Certification Exam Voucher from an authorized reseller or from the Autodesk website. Once you have purchased your voucher, you must register for the exam at the Pearson VUE website. After registering, you will be able to schedule your exam at a time and location that is convenient for you.

The cost of the Autodesk Certified User: AutoCAD for Technical Illustration exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD per attempt.

6. Certified Technical Illustrator (CTI)

Certified Technical Illustrator (CTI) is a professional certification program offered by the Society of Technical Communication (STC). It is designed to recognize technical illustrators who demonstrate a high level of skill and expertise in their field. The certification program covers topics such as design principles and techniques, illustration software, production processes, and industry standards.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain prerequisites including having at least two years of experience in technical illustration or related fields such as graphic design, engineering drawing, or computer-aided drafting. Applicants must also pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of the topics covered by the CTI program.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Once applicants have passed the exam, they are eligible to receive their CTI certification. The cost for taking the exam is $295 USD for STC members and $395 USD for non-members.

7. Adobe Certified Instructor: Illustrator

Adobe Certified Instructor: Illustrator is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of expertise in teaching Adobe Illustrator. The certification requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to teach advanced-level concepts and techniques related to Adobe Illustrator.

To become an Adobe Certified Instructor (ACI): Illustrator, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as working with layers, using color, creating vector graphics, and more. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to take the ACI: Illustrator exam, you must first register with Pearson VUE and purchase a voucher for the exam. The cost of the voucher varies depending on your geographical location but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

Once you have passed the ACI: Illustrator exam, you will receive a digital badge that can be used on your website or social media accounts to demonstrate your expertise in teaching Adobe Illustrator. You will also be listed on the Adobe Certified Instructors page as an official ACI: Illustrator instructor.

8. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite Certification

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite Certification is a professional certification program that is designed to help individuals demonstrate their proficiency in using CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, which is a comprehensive vector-based illustration and design software. The certification program consists of two levels: CorelDRAW Certified Associate (CDA) and CorelDRAW Certified Professional (CDP).

To become CorelDRAW Certified Associate, you must pass the online CDA exam. This exam covers topics such as basic drawing tools, effects, text tools, color management, and outputting files for print or web. It takes approximately 1 hour to complete the exam and costs $99 USD.

The second level of certification is CorelDRAW Certified Professional (CDP). To become CDP certified, you must pass both the online CDA exam and an advanced skills assessment test. This test covers topics such as advanced drawing tools, effects, text tools, color management, outputting files for print or web, and managing projects with multiple documents. It takes approximately 2 hours to complete the exam and costs $199 USD.

In addition to passing the exams, applicants must also have at least 6 months of experience using CorelDRAW Graphics Suite in a professional setting before they can be certified.

9. Autodesk Certified Professional: 3ds Max for Technical Illustration

Autodesk Certified Professional: 3ds Max for Technical Illustration is a certification program that recognizes the technical proficiency of individuals in using Autodesk's 3ds Max software for creating technical illustrations. This certification is ideal for those looking to demonstrate their ability to create accurate and detailed technical illustrations.

The Autodesk Certified Professional: 3ds Max for Technical Illustration exam typically takes around 2 hours to complete and covers topics such as modeling, materials, lighting, rendering, animation, and post-production. To get this certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of the Autodesk Certified Professional: 3ds Max for Technical Illustration exam varies depending on your country or region but usually ranges from $100 to $200 USD.

10. Autodesk Certified User: Inventor for Technical Illustration

Autodesk Certified User: Inventor for Technical Illustration is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in using Autodesk Inventor software to create technical illustrations. It is designed to help employers identify and hire qualified professionals who can effectively use the software to produce high-quality technical drawings.

To get certified, applicants must take an online exam that tests their knowledge of the Autodesk Inventor software. The exam covers topics such as 3D modeling, sketching, assembly design, drawing creation, and visualization. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and is available in English or Spanish language versions.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your location. Generally speaking, it costs between $100 and $200 USD per attempt. You may also be required to pay for any additional materials needed for the exam such as textbooks or practice exams.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive an official Autodesk Certified User: Inventor for Technical Illustration certificate from Autodesk which will serve as proof of your qualification. This certificate is valid for three years after which time you must retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

Do You Really Need a Technical Illustrator Certificate?

A technical illustrator certificate is an important credential for anyone who wants to pursue a career in the field of technical illustration. Not only does it demonstrate your commitment to the profession, it also indicates that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as a technical illustrator.

That being said, whether or not you need a technical illustrator certificate will depend largely on your individual situation. For example, if you already have a degree in graphic design or a related field, then having a certificate may be beneficial but not essential. On the other hand, if you don't have any formal training in this area, then obtaining a certificate could be very helpful. A certification will demonstrate that you possess the basic skill set needed to succeed in this field.

In addition to providing proof of your skills and knowledge, having a technical illustrator certificate can also help open doors that might otherwise remain closed for those without such credentials. Many employers look for applicants with specialized certifications when considering candidates for higher-level positions within their organization. Therefore, obtaining a certification could potentially give you an edge over other job seekers and increase your chances of landing the job that you want.

Overall, while having a technical illustrator certificate is not necessarily required in order to pursue this career path, it can be quite beneficial if you are serious about becoming successful in this field. It provides proof of your abilities and shows employers that you are committed to learning more about the profession and honing your skills as an illustrator.

Related: Technical Illustrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Illustrator Certifications

1. What is a Technical Illustrator Certification?

Answer: A Technical Illustrator Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the field of technical illustration. It provides assurance to employers and clients that the certified professional has the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to complete technical illustrations accurately and efficiently.

2. How do I become a Certified Technical Illustrator?

Answer: To become a Certified Technical Illustrator, you must first complete a formal training program in technical illustration from an accredited school or institution. After completing the training program, you must then pass an exam administered by a recognized certification body in order to receive your certification.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a Technical Illustrator?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified as a Technical Illustrator will vary depending on the type of training program and certification exam you take. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months up to three years or more of study before obtaining your certification.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Technical Illustrator?

Answer: Yes, there are typically prerequisites for becoming certified as a Technical Illustrator such as having basic computer skills and knowledge of design software programs like Adobe Photoshop or Corel Draw. Additionally, some certification bodies may require applicants to have at least two years of experience in the field prior to taking their exam.

5. What are the benefits of being certified as a Technical Illustrator?

Answer: Being certified as a Technical Illustrator can provide numerous benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, greater credibility with employers and clients, and recognition within the industry. It also shows dedication to one’s career which can open up opportunities for advancement within one’s field or specialization in other areas such as animation or web design.