An Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) is someone who has proven advanced skills in using Autodesk software, demonstrating expertise in programs like AutoCAD, Revit, or 3ds Max.
Without certification, it can be difficult to stand out in today’s competitive job market. Even with years of hands-on experience, employers might question your skills and qualifications.
That’s where a certification like the ACP can help you showcase your expertise and give you an edge in your career.
According to data from PayScale, Autodesk AutoCAD Certified Professionals earn an average salary between $55,770 and $75,000 per year, with the potential for even higher earnings depending on experience and location.
While you may already be familiar with Autodesk software, official certification adds credibility to your expertise.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the benefits of becoming certified, how to prepare for the exam, and the best courses to help you succeed.
Let’s dive in and explore how becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional can boost your career.
What is Autodesk Certified Professional?
The Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) certification shows that you have advanced skills in using Autodesk software.
It proves that you can handle complex design tasks and solve problems in fields like architecture, engineering, and construction. This certification is recognised worldwide and helps you stand out to employers as someone who can manage real-world projects.
There are different levels of Autodesk certification, depending on your experience and skill level:
- Autodesk Certified Associate (ACA): This certification is for beginners who have learned the basics of Autodesk software. It requires about 150 hours of practice and is often pursued by students or new professionals.
- Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP): This is for those who have more experience with Autodesk software (400 to 1200 hours). It’s for people who can work on complex design tasks and want to prove their advanced skills in the field.
- Autodesk Certified Expert (ACE): This is the highest certification level and is for professionals who have mastered Autodesk software. It shows that you can solve complex problems and are an expert in the field.
Each certification level helps you grow in your career. But becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional is especially valuable if you want to take on more complex projects and prove your advanced skills.
Benefits of Becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional
Becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional can advance your career by opening up more job opportunities, increasing your earning potential, and gaining recognition in the industry. This certification shows you have the skills to handle complex tasks, giving you an advantage over non-certified professionals.
As a result, you’ll stand out in a competitive job market and be a more attractive candidate to employers.
Now, let’s take a closer look at how this certification can specifically benefit your career.
Career Advancement
Certification opens doors to new job opportunities and promotions.
With an ACP, you demonstrate that you’ve mastered industry-standard software. This can lead to career growth in roles that require advanced Autodesk skills, such as senior designer or project manager positions. Employers are more likely to invest in you when they see that you’ve passed rigorous certification exams.
Skill Validation
The ACP certification serves as proof that you have the skills and expertise necessary to work on high-level projects. It gives you credibility in the eyes of employers, clients, and peers. Instead of just saying you have the skills, the certification shows that you’ve met high industry standards, making you a more valuable asset to any team.
Higher Earning Potential
Becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional can boost your earning potential.
With the certification, you position yourself for higher-paying opportunities in your field. According to PayScale, Autodesk Certified Professionals typically earn between $55,770 and $75,000 annually, and with increased experience and responsibilities, those numbers can grow even higher.
This opens up opportunities for better salary negotiations and job satisfaction as you advance in your career.
Industry Recognition
Holding an Autodesk Certified Professional designation signals to the industry that you are an expert in your field.
It gives you the recognition you deserve, elevating your status in the professional community. This can lead to more job offers, speaking engagements, or consulting opportunities, as you’ll be seen as someone who is highly skilled and committed to continuous learning.
How to Become an Autodesk Certified Professional?
To become an Autodesk Certified Professional, you need to take a 120-minute exam challenging your knowledge of the software. But before you take the exam, you need to prepare yourself with the right knowledge and skills.
Here are some tips so you can get ready for the certification:
Step 1: Take a Certified Online Course
The first step is to strengthen your skills with an online course that you can learn at your own pace, from anywhere.
Certified online courses from platforms like Interscale Education will guide you through the tools and features of Autodesk software. These courses are designed to provide you with hands-on training, focusing on real-world applications and problem-solving.
Taking such a course will prepare you for the challenges you’ll face in the certification exam.
Step 2: Practice and Review
After completing your course, it’s time to practice.
Autodesk provides practice exams, study guides, and other materials to help you sharpen your skills. Focus on the areas where you feel less confident. The exam will test your ability to solve complex problems, so it’s important to be well-prepared.
Review the course material, practice applying what you’ve learned, and go over the most common features and tools you’ll be tested on.
Step 3: Schedule the Exam
When you feel ready, the next step is scheduling your exam.
You’ll have two hours, or 120 minutes, to complete it. Make sure you choose a time when you can focus fully on the exam. It’s important to plan ahead so you can give your best performance. Autodesk provides the exam details on their website, where you can schedule the test and find all the necessary information.
Step 4: Take the Exam
The certification exam will test your ability to use Autodesk software in real-world situations.
You’ll be asked to solve tasks and problems that a professional might encounter. The exam typically covers design and engineering tasks that require you to apply your knowledge of various tools and commands.
During the exam, make sure you stay calm, take your time, and focus on each problem carefully.
Step 5: Earn Your Certification
Once you pass the exam, you’ll receive your Autodesk Certified Professional certificate.
This official certification proves that you are skilled in Autodesk software, which can make a big difference in your career. Employers value this certification, as it shows you have the expertise they need.
With your certification, you can advance in your current role or pursue new career opportunities in design, engineering, and other industries.
Best Training Courses to Prepare for ACP Certification
To pass the Autodesk Certified Professional exam, it’s essential to use the right resources to prepare. The right course can make a big difference in helping you build the necessary skills and knowledge.
Here are some of the best options for preparing for the exam:
Official Autodesk Learning Hub
The Autodesk Learning Hub is a great place to start your preparation. It provides a variety of online training resources, including video lessons and practice exercises. This platform is designed to guide you through Autodesk tools in a structured way, helping you gain hands-on experience with the software.
Online Platforms
Interscale Education offers a certified Autodesk online course that can help you prepare for the ACP exam.
These courses cover everything from the basics to more advanced Autodesk tools. The courses are flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your schedule. You’ll get access to industry-standard software, practice projects, and expert guidance to make sure you’re ready for the exam.
You’ll also earn a certificate when you complete this course. While it may not carry the same weight as the ACP certification, since Interscale Education is an Autodesk Gold Partner, completing that kind of will demonstrates your solid understanding of the software.
Practice Exams & Mock Tests
Practice exams and mock tests are essential in your preparation.
They help you familiarise yourself with the structure and timing of the actual exam. Mock tests give you an idea of the types of questions you’ll encounter and allow you to identify areas that need more focus. They also help reduce test anxiety by getting you comfortable with the process.
Books & Guides
Books and guides can offer in-depth explanations of Autodesk tools and techniques.
Look for official Autodesk study guides or books recommended by professionals who have passed the ACP exam. These resources often include tips and tricks that you may not find in the online materials, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the software.
Prepare for the ACP Exam with a Certified Online Course
Becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) can really give your career a boost and help you stand out in the job market. But to get there, you need hands-on experience with Autodesk software and a solid understanding of how it all works.
So where can you get the right training?
Interscale Education, an Autodesk Gold Partner, offers courses that focus on the real-world skills needed in industries like architecture, engineering, and construction. While the courses aren’t specifically designed to prepare you for the ACP exam, they give you the knowledge and experience you’ll need to confidently take the exam when you’re ready.
Here’s what you’ll get with our course:
- 100+ certified courses covering Autodesk software, including AutoCAD, Revit, and more, designed for professionals in real-world industry workflows.
- Step-by-step video lessons that teach you key software features, tools, and techniques required for both practical work and certification preparation.
- Expert instructors with 60+ years of combined industry experience, guiding you through practical applications and complex scenarios.
- Flexible learning with 60,000+ minutes of on-demand content, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
- Industry-recognised certification, helping you build credibility and stand out in the job market.
Interscale Education has everything you need to master Autodesk tools, whether you’re learning AutoCAD, Revit, or other software. Once you’ve got the knowledge and skills, you’ll be in a great position to take on the ACP exam and take your career further.
Take the next step with a certified AutoCAD online course—enroll today!
