Autodesk Civil 3D 2026: Essentials for Surveyors (Imperial Units)

The Autodesk ® Civil 3D ® 2026: Essentials for Surveyors is designed to provide survey professionals with the basic knowledge required to use Autodesk Civil 3D for completing routine tasks.
With this course, surveyors and technicians can learn how to use Civil 3D in a typical workflow by importing field survey data into a standardized environment and using automation tools to create an Existing Conditions Plan.
Topics such as data collection, traverses, styles, correct AutoCAD® drafting techniques, effective linework creation methodologies, symbology variables, surfaces, point categorization, and the use of online maps are covered to enhance efficiency and precision.

Topics Covered

The Autodesk Civil 3D interface
Points overview and styles
Importing points and coordinate transformations
Creating points and drafting
Point groups, grips, and reports
Point security and editing
Introduction to data collection in the field
Introduction to Civil 3D Survey and automated linework
Survey networks
Coordinate Geometry Editor for entering traverse information or legal descriptions
Surface overview
Surface editing
Surface labels and analysis

Prerequisites

Access to the 2026.0 version of the software, to ensure compatibility with this guide. Future software updates that are released by Autodesk may include changes that are not reflected in this guide. The practices and files included with this guide might not be compatible with prior versions (e.g., 2025).
Knowledge of AutoCAD basics as taught in AutoCAD: Essentials, or equivalent experience.
A sound understanding and knowledge of civil engineering terminology.