Download the AutoCAD Free Trial: 2D and 3D CAD from Autodesk
Autodesk AutoCAD · for Windows and macOS
Developer: Autodesk (opens in a new tab)
- Windows
- macOS
The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: autodesk.com
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AutoCAD is Autodesk’s subscription CAD software for 2D drafting and 3D modelling on Windows and macOS. Autodesk offers a 15-day free trial, plus free one-year education access for eligible students and educators.
AutoCAD is the program behind the DWG format, so it is often what architects, engineers and contractors expect drawings to be made in. It covers detailed 2D drafting as well as 3D modelling, and it can be automated with scripts and add-ons.
What full AutoCAD includes
- 2D drafting and documentation: Precise drawing tools, layers, dimensions, blocks and layouts for plotting.
- 3D modelling: Solid, surface and mesh modelling, with visual styles and rendering.
- Automation: AutoLISP, APIs and add-ons for repetitive tasks, which AutoCAD LT does not support.
- Specialized toolsets: Industry toolsets such as AutoCAD Electrical and Plant 3D are included with an AutoCAD subscription on Windows.
Starting the trial
- The Download button opens Autodesk’s AutoCAD free-trial page.
- Sign in or create an Autodesk account and fill in the short form.
- Download the installer for Windows or Mac and install it.
The AutoCAD trial lasts 15 days, according to Autodesk’s trial page, and it cannot be extended. After that you need a subscription. For short projects, Autodesk suggests a monthly subscription with automatic renewal turned off.
System requirements and education
The latest Windows release requires 64-bit Windows 11, with 8 GB of RAM as a minimum and 32 GB recommended; the toolsets are Windows-only and need extra disk space. On Mac, AutoCAD runs on both Apple silicon and Intel. Students and educators can get free one-year access through the Autodesk Education Plan for learning, teaching and research, not commercial work.
If you only need 2D drawings, AutoCAD LT costs less. For another DWG-based program that also runs on Linux, BricsCAD offers a 30-day trial.
Pros
- Native DWG, the most widely exchanged CAD format
- Includes industry toolsets on Windows
- Free education licence for students
Cons
- Subscription only
- Short 15-day trial
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the AutoCAD free trial?
Autodesk lists 15 days for the AutoCAD trial. It cannot be extended; after it ends you need a subscription.
Can students use AutoCAD for free?
Yes. Eligible students and educators can get one year of free access through the Autodesk Education Plan, renewable while they remain eligible. Commercial use is not allowed.
Autodesk AutoCADTrial
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