Converting Map Layers to CAD Format

Students regularly contact us regarding access to CAD format files. Most of the data we store on the network and much that is available over the web is formatted for the ESRI ArcGIS program. Data sets that you are able to view in ArcMap can also be exported into CAD format and this tutorial will show you how to accomplish this task. More information on integrating ArcGIS and AutoCAD can be found at ESRI's CAD Integration Resource Center.

Note: often times CAD data is not in a real world coordinate system. If you would like to match GIS data to existing CAD data, there may be additional steps required once all data layers are in CAD format.

The first step is to find and load the data layers of interest into an ArcMap document (.mxd). Use ArcMap to preview the datasets and to focus the map window on your area of interest.

Most CAD applications deal with relatively small spatial areas and therefore limiting the size of the source data files will make storing and transfering those files much simpler. Once you define your area of interest, the second step is to limit the extent of any layers that you intend to convert as follows.

Reduce Layer Extent

In ArcMap:


Right-click on the layer you wish to convert.




Select "Data"
then "Export Data".


Use the down arrow to limit the export to "All Features in the View Extent" and specify a location for the output.


Limit the Extent of your Data
A subsequent window will ask if you want to add the layer to your map document, select "Yes".

After you have reduced the layers you wish to convert into more manageable sizes, use the "Export to CAD" tool to create a CAD format file.

Make sure the ArcToolbox is displayed. If not, click on the red toolbox icon.


Browse to the "Conversion Tools", "To CAD" toolbox and open the "Export to CAD" tool.

Select each export layer using the black downarrow to access the layers in your project.
As each layer is added, it will appear in the target list. Enter a filemane for the output and click OK.



A status window will open during processing to alert you if problems occur.

Export To CAD