How to Convert PDF, JPG or Scanned Plans to CAD and Revit
To convert a PDF, JPG or scanned plan to CAD or Revit, a drafter redraws the drawing in AutoCAD or Revit at true scale, using the dimensions on the original plan. Automatic PDF-to-DWG and raster-to-vector converters can trace lines, but they produce broken geometry, wrong scales and text that can't be edited. A manual redraw gives you a clean, layered DWG file or a working Revit BIM model you can revise for a permit, share with engineers, or build from.
Why convert old plans to CAD or Revit?
Most renovation and addition projects start with whatever drawings the owner has: a PDF from the builder, a blueprint from the city archive, or a photo of a plan from the previous owner. Those files can't be edited. Converting them to CAD or Revit gives you a working file to revise for a new permit drawing set, to hand to a structural engineer, or to use for remodel planning.
PDF to CAD: vector PDFs vs. scanned PDFs
A vector PDF exported from CAD software still contains line data, so it can sometimes be imported into AutoCAD directly. The result is usually messy: lines are exploded into thousands of segments, text becomes geometry, and the scale is often off. A scanned PDF is just an image, so there is nothing to import at all. In both cases, the reliable route is to redraw the plan in AutoCAD on proper layers, at the dimensions written on the drawing.
JPG, photo and scanned blueprint to CAD
Image to CAD conversion follows the same process. The drafter sets the image to scale using a known dimension, then redraws walls, openings, stairs, fixtures and annotations. Phone photos taken at an angle are straightened first. If part of the image is unreadable, a good conversion service flags it rather than guessing.
- Shoot photos straight on, in good light, with the whole sheet in the frame
- Scan at 300 dpi or higher when possible
- Include any pages with dimensions, schedules or notes
- Send one or two site measurements if the plan has no dimensions
PDF or CAD to Revit (BIM) conversion
A Revit conversion goes further than a 2D redraw. The drafter builds a 3D BIM model with levels, walls, floors, roofs, doors, windows and stairs, then sets up plans, elevations, sections and sheets from that model. Because every view comes from one model, a change in plan updates the elevations and schedules too. Revit models are useful for additions, coordination with structural and MEP drawings, 3D visuals and quantity takeoffs.
Automatic converters vs. manual redrawing
Online PDF-to-DWG tools and raster-to-vector software are fine for a quick visual reference. They are not suitable when the file will be used for permits or construction, because traced lines don't join, walls aren't parallel, dimensions don't match and text can't be edited. Manual conversion costs more but produces a file that behaves like a drawing made in CAD from the start.
Getting your plans converted
ArchPermits converts PDF, JPG, scanned and hand-drawn plans into AutoCAD DWG files and Revit BIM models, and can update them into a permit-ready set if you're planning work. See our PDF to CAD and Revit conversion service.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a PDF to CAD?
For an accurate, editable file, have the PDF redrawn in AutoCAD at true scale. Direct PDF imports and automatic converters often produce broken lines, wrong scales and uneditable text.
Can a JPG be converted to CAD?
Yes. A JPG, PNG or photo of a plan can be redrawn in CAD after it's scaled from a known dimension. The clearer the image and dimensions, the more accurate the result.
What is the difference between CAD and Revit?
AutoCAD produces 2D (or 3D) line drawings. Revit builds an intelligent BIM model where walls, doors and windows are objects, and plans, elevations, sections and schedules all come from that one model.
How long does PDF to CAD conversion take?
A single floor plan usually takes 24 to 48 hours. A full house set takes 2 to 5 days, and Revit models a little longer.
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