How to Activate License in AutoCAD?

Understanding AutoCAD Activation Licenses

Activating your AutoCAD software license is a vital step to ensure you can use all features without interruption. Depending on how you obtained your version of AutoCAD, activation could vary slightly. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to activate your AutoCAD license.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Information

Before starting the activation process, ensure you have all the required details ready:

• Your serial number and product key, which can be found in your Autodesk Account under the Manage tab.
• A stable internet connection is usually required, but note that offline activation is available for standalone licenses.

Step 2: Begin Activation Process

1. Launch AutoCAD: Start the AutoCAD application on your computer.
2. Access the Activation Screen: During initial setup or after installation, you’ll be prompted with the Product License Activation screen.
3. Select ‘Activate’: Click on the ‘Activate’ button to proceed.

Step 3: Enter the Serial Number and Product Key

1. Input Information: When prompted, enter your serial number and product key as obtained from your Autodesk Account.
2. Confirm Your Input: Carefully check that all details are entered correctly to avoid any issues with your activation.

Step 4: Complete Online Activation

1. Internet Activation: If you have an internet connection, AutoCAD will automatically connect to Autodesk’s servers to validate your license.
2. Follow Prompts: The software will provide onscreen prompts to guide you. Follow them until the activation process is complete.
3. Restart the Software: After successful activation, restart AutoCAD to ensure that all features are fully operational.

Step 5: Offline Activation (if necessary)

If your computer does not have internet access, follow these steps:

1. Select Offline Activation: When prompted in the activation window, choose "Offline Activation."
2. Obtain Request Code: The software will generate a request code. Write this code down accurately.
3. Visit Autodesk Activation Portal: On another device with internet access, go to the Autodesk Activation page.
4. Enter Request Code: Input the request code obtained from your AutoCAD installation.
5. Receive Activation Code: The portal will generate an activation code that you need to write down.
6. Return to AutoCAD: Go back to your AutoCAD installation and enter the activation code in the appropriate field.
7. Complete Activation: Follow the instructions to finalize the offline activation process.

Step 6: Verify License Status

1. Check Activation: To confirm that your AutoCAD has been activated, navigate to Help > About AutoCAD.
2. Product License Information: In the About window, click on Product Information or Product License Information. This should display the details confirming that your license is active.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my serial number or product key is not working?

Double-check your input for any typographical errors. Ensure that you are using a serial number and product key compatible with your version of AutoCAD. If issues persist, contact Autodesk customer support for assistance.

2. Can I use AutoCAD without activating it?

While you can install AutoCAD without activation, the software will operate in a trial mode with limited functionalities. Activation is necessary to access the full features of AutoCAD.

3. How can I check my AutoCAD license status?

Open AutoCAD, click Help, then About AutoCAD. Inside the About window, you will find the Product Information section, where the license status and other relevant details are displayed.