Drafting schools in Washington, DC
5 schools within 30 miles of Washington, DC offer CAD & drafting programs, and the closest is Northern Virginia Community College in Annandale, 13 miles away. CAD drafters in the U.S. earn a median $71,550 a year, according to the BLS.
- Within 30 miles
- 5
- Closest
- 13 mi
- Public colleges
- 5
- Median pay (U.S.)
- $71,550
What CAD drafters earn nationally
BLS doesn't publish a District of Columbia figure for this job, so these are national numbers. Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
- Median pay
- $71,550
- $34.40 an hour
- Typical range
- $48,360–$106,580
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in the U.S.
- 39,960
- Job growth, 2025–35
- -6%
- 2,900 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
Hear from the best fits near Washington
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Frequently asked questions
What are the closest CAD & drafting schools to Washington?
The closest are Northern Virginia Community College (Annandale, 13 mi), Montgomery College (Rockville, 15 mi), and Howard Community College (Columbia, 23 mi). In total, 5 schools within 30 miles teach CAD & drafting.
How much do CAD & drafting programs near Washington cost?
For the 5 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $8,027 to $14,915. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do CAD drafters make near Washington?
Nationally, the median pay is $71,550 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.
How do I choose a CAD & drafting school in Washington?
Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.
Drafting schools in nearby cities
- Bowie, MD (15 mi)
- Gaithersburg, MD (19 mi)
- Manassas, VA (27 mi)
- Annapolis, MD (28 mi)
- Leesburg, VA (32 mi)
- Baltimore, MD (35 mi)
- Frederick, MD (42 mi)
- Westminster, MD (47 mi)
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