AutoCAD

Which AutoCAD Free Trial? | TutoCAD

Which AutoCAD Free Trial? | TutoCAD
Wei Zhang
Written by Wei Zhang

Understanding the AutoCAD Free Trial

If you’re considering trying out AutoCAD, you can take advantage of a free trial that lasts for 30 days. This trial allows you to explore AutoCAD along with various industry-specific toolsets that come with a subscription. It’s a hands-on way to see how these tools can enhance your productivity and streamline your design processes. Keep in mind that you will need to download each trial separately to access different functionalities.

Steps to Obtain AutoCAD 2025 for Free

To get a free version of AutoCAD 2025, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Autodesk Education Community website.
  2. From the list of available software, select AutoCAD.
  3. Create an Autodesk account by providing necessary information.
  4. Click on the “DOWNLOAD NOW” button to start the process.
  5. Choose the version you want, including your operating system and language preference.

How to Utilize the AutoCAD Free Trial Effectively

To make the most out of your trial period for AutoCAD, adhere to the following steps:

  1. Select the “DOWNLOAD AUTOCAD FOR FREE” option on the official website.
  2. Indicate your operating system from the available choices.
  3. Review the system requirements to ensure compatibility with your device.
  4. In the drop-down menu, choose “Business User” as your profile type.
  5. Create your Autodesk account by filling out the personal information form.
  6. Input the necessary business information if applicable.

Alternative CAD Software Similar to AutoCAD

If you’re looking for free CAD software that resembles AutoCAD, consider these options:

  • SketchUp
  • DraftSight
  • NanoCAD
  • BricsCAD
  • LibreCAD
  • CMS IntelliCAD
  • ProgeCAD
  • FreeCAD

Do Students Get Access to AutoCAD 2025 for Free?

Students are typically eligible for free access to AutoCAD 2025 through the Autodesk Education Community. Registration as a student allows you to tap into various Autodesk products at no cost, giving you a valuable resource for your studies and projects.

Running AutoCAD without a Subscription

Using AutoCAD does require regular internet connectivity for subscription verification—specifically, every 30 days. However, you can work offline on your computer or via the AutoCAD mobile application without an active internet connection at other times.

Understanding the Cost of AutoCAD

AutoCAD is often viewed as expensive software. This pricing stems from its intricate design and ongoing maintenance challenges, paired with a more specialized market that is not as broad as consumer-grade software. Most users access AutoCAD through employer-provided licenses, accounting for a significant portion of sales.

How to Acquire a License for AutoCAD 2025

To obtain a license for AutoCAD 2025, follow these steps:

  1. Open AutoCAD and type “ABOUT” into the Command line, followed by hitting Enter.
  2. Navigate to the “Manage License” option, which will bring up the License Manager interface.
  3. Select “Change License Type” to explore your options.
  4. After confirming, you will need to restart the program.

How to Access AutoCAD Post-Trial Period

After your trial period ends, follow these steps to continue using AutoCAD:

  1. Launch the software on your computer.
  2. In the Sign-In menu, select the option to manage licenses.
  3. Choose “Change License Type.”
  4. Follow any prompts on the Change License Type screen, and then click Change.
  5. Restart the software, which should bring up the “Let’s Get Started” screen.
  6. Click Finish to begin using the program.

Downloading Free Lifetime Versions of AutoCAD

For those looking to use older versions such as AutoCAD 2017 for free, the following method is common:

  1. Download and install Autodesk AutoCAD 2017.
  2. Use one of the following serial numbers: 666-69696969, 667-98989898, 400-45454545, or 066-66666666.
  3. For the product key, enter 001i1.
  4. Complete the installation and open the AutoCAD 2017 application.
  5. Click on “Activate” and choose “I have an activation code from Autodesk.”

FAQs

  1. Can I access AutoCAD using a mobile device?
    Yes, you can use the AutoCAD mobile app to access features on the go, although a subscription check is still required.
  2. Are there any completely free alternatives to AutoCAD?
    Yes, options like FreeCAD, LibreCAD, and QCAD provide free tools with varying functionality for CAD tasks.
  3. How does the educational version of AutoCAD differ from the full version?
    Generally, the educational version has the same capabilities as the full version, but it may have restrictions on commercial use.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.