GD&T Training – Frequently Asked Questions (2025 Guide)

If you’re considering GD&T training, you probably have questions about cost, certification, career benefits, and what to expect. This guide brings together the most common questions engineers, students, and companies ask about GD&T training, with clear answers to help you decide.

  • What is GD&T training?

    GD&T training teaches engineers and technicians how to use Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing — the symbolic language used on technical drawings to define allowable variation in part geometry. Training usually covers symbols, feature control frames, datums, and tolerance analysis.

  • Why is GD&T important in engineering?

    GD&T ensures that designs are built and inspected correctly. It eliminates ambiguity on drawings, reduces scrap and rework, and improves communication between design, manufacturing, and inspection teams.

  • Is GD&T training hard to learn?

    It depends. The basics (symbols and simple tolerances) are straightforward. The challenge comes in applying GD&T in real designs. A structured course with assignments makes the process easier than trying to self-study.

  • How long does it take to learn GD&T?

    Basics: 1–2 weeks of part-time study. Intermediate level: 20–40 hours. Advanced application: 2–3 months with practice. Most engineers can learn enough to apply GD&T confidently in a few weeks with a good online course.

  • Can I learn GD&T by myself, or do I need a course?

    Self-study is possible with books and charts, but without exercises and feedback, many engineers misunderstand key concepts. Courses provide structure, examples, and certification, which makes them more effective for careers.

  • What are the best books for GD&T training?

    Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing by David Madsen Fundamentals of GD&T by Alex Krulikowski Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing for Mechanical Design by Gene Cogorno

  • Is there a free GD&T training resource or PDF available?

    Yes, you can find free symbol charts and tutorials online. Excedify also offers a free GD&T symbols chart PDF . However, free resources usually don’t provide certification or assignments.

  • How much does GD&T training cost?

    Udemy/LinkedIn: $50–$200 ASME, SAE, GeoTol: $1,200–$1,600 Excedify: $299 (covers both ASME and ISO standards, lifetime access)

  • What is the best GD&T certification?

    The best certification is one that employers recognize and that proves practical skills. Certificates from ASME carry prestige, but Excedify’s skills-based certification is designed for real-world application.