Autodesk AutoCAD is paid software, but there are legitimate ways to use it without purchasing a full commercial license for certain users and periods. This guide explains all legal options, step-by-step instructions, alternatives, common activation errors and fixes, practical tips, and a helpful FAQ to answer likely follow-up questions. All instructions emphasize staying within Autodesk’s terms and avoiding illegal activation methods.
How to legally get AutoCAD for free
Free trial
Autodesk offers a free trial of AutoCAD that lets you use the full software for a limited time (typically 30 days). This is ideal to evaluate the product before committing to a subscription.
Educational license (students & educators)
If you are a student, teacher, or affiliated with an educational institution, you can get a free educational license through the Autodesk education Community. This license is intended for learning and teaching, not for commercial use.
Special promotions and offers
Occasionally, Autodesk runs promotions or limited-time offers that provide Free access or extended trials. Check the official Autodesk website or subscribe to their newsletter for announcements.
Step-by-step: Get the free trial
- Visit the official Autodesk website (autodesk.com) and search for AutoCAD.
- Click “Free Trial” on the AutoCAD product page.
- Create an Autodesk account or sign in if you already have one.
- Choose your operating system and language, then download the installer.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install AutoCAD.
- When prompted, select “Start free trial” and sign in with your Autodesk account.
- Confirm that your trial period (usually 30 days) is active in the software’s About or Account area.
Notes:
- Ensure your computer meets the system requirements listed on Autodesk’s site before installing.
- Trials are for evaluation only and will expire automatically; save your work to a portable format if you need to migrate.
Step-by-step: Get the educational license
- Go to the Autodesk Education Community page (education.autodesk.com).
- Create an account or sign in using a valid email address.
- Navigate to AutoCAD in the list of available software.
- Click “Get Product” and select the educational license option.
- Provide proof of educational status (student/educator ID, school email, or document upload). Follow the on-screen verification steps.
- Once verified, download the educational version of AutoCAD and install it.
- Sign in with your Autodesk education account to activate the license.
Important:
- The educational license is for non-commercial use. Using it commercially violates Autodesk’s terms.
- Verification may take time — plan ahead if you need software for coursework.
Alternative free CAD software
If AutoCAD’s free options do not apply to you, consider these legal free alternatives:
- LibreCAD — 2D CAD, lightweight, open-source, good for basic drafting and DWG-like workflows.
- FreeCAD — 3D parametric modeling, open-source, suitable for mechanical and architectural modeling.
- DraftSight (Free version may be limited) — 2D drafting tools (check availability and licensing).
- Onshape (free plan) — cloud-based CAD with a free plan for public projects.
- DWG TrueView — Autodesk’s free viewer for DWG files (viewing and measuring only).
Each has different features and workflows; choose the one that best fits your needs.
Common activation errors and fixes
Error: “Trial expired” or “Product deactivated”
- Fix: You must purchase a subscription or obtain an eligible educational license. Export your drawings to DWG/DXF before the trial ends.
Error: “Activation failed” or “Invalid Activation code”
- Fix: Do not use unofficial activation codes. Sign in with the Autodesk account tied to your trial or license. If you have a purchased Serial number, re-enter it exactly and ensure internet connectivity.
Error: “Verification documents rejected” (educational license)
- Fix: Re-upload clearer supporting documents (student ID, enrollment letter) or use an official school email address. Contact Autodesk Education Support if verification fails repeatedly.
Error: “Network license cannot be checked out” or “Cannot connect to license server”
- Fix: Check firewall and proxy settings. Ensure the license server is reachable and proper ports are open. Contact your IT administrator.
Error: “Installer fails” or “Missing prerequisites”
- Fix: Install required components (Visual C++ redistributables, .NET Framework), update your OS, and run the installer as an administrator.
General tip: If problems persist, clear installer caches, uninstall previous Autodesk components, reboot, and try a fresh install. Use Autodesk’s uninstall tool and consult Autodesk support or community forums.
Practical tips for using AutoCAD during a free period
- Before starting a trial, confirm your computer meets AutoCAD system requirements (CPU, RAM, GPU, disk space).
- Use the trial to test critical workflows: printing, external references (Xrefs), custom blocks, and any plugins you rely on.
- Save backups frequently and export important files to DWG or DXF formats to maintain compatibility.
- If you’re a student, apply for the educational license early — verification can take time.
- Avoid any pirated activation tools or cracked installers — these are illegal, often contain malware, and can compromise your work.
- Use DWG TrueView to view files if you only need viewing capability.
- Keep AutoCAD up to date via Autodesk Desktop App or the Autodesk Account portal for security and stability.
FAQ
Can I legally use AutoCAD for free forever?
No. AutoCAD is commercial software. You can use it free temporarily via a trial, or long-term if you qualify for a free educational license. For commercial, ongoing use you must buy a subscription.
How long does the AutoCAD free trial last?
The standard trial duration is typically 30 days, but check Autodesk’s site for the current trial length when you register.
Am I allowed to use the educational license for paid client work?
No. The educational license is legally restricted to learning and teaching purposes. Using it for commercial work violates Autodesk’s terms of service.
What should I do if my educational verification is rejected?
Recheck the documents you uploaded: use an official school email if possible, provide clear scans/photos of IDs or enrollment letters, and follow Autodesk’s verification instructions. Contact Autodesk Education Support if issues persist.
Can I install AutoCAD on multiple computers with a trial or educational license?
Trial licenses are generally intended for a single user on limited machines; details depend on Autodesk’s current licensing policy. Educational licenses often allow installation on multiple personal devices for the verified user. Check license terms in your Autodesk account.
Are there safe, free plugins or add-ons for AutoCAD?
Yes — many trusted plugins are available through the Autodesk App Store and reputable developers. Always download from official or well-known sources and verify compatibility before installing.
What if I encounter a licensing or activation error I can’t fix?
Contact Autodesk Support or use their community forums. Provide screenshots, error codes, and details about your OS and network environment to speed troubleshooting.
Can I convert my trial or educational AutoCAD files to use in another CAD program?
Yes. Save or export files as DWG or DXF, which are widely supported by many CAD programs and viewers like LibreCAD, FreeCAD, or DWG TrueView.