How to Open DGN Files in AutoCAD on PC or Mac

Open any DGN file in seconds with our simple guide

Written by Travis Boylls

Last Updated: December 9, 2024 Tested

This wikiHow teaches you how to open a DGN file in AutoCAD. DGN is the native file format used in MicroStation and Intergraph's IGDS CAD programs. AutoCAD allows you to import DGN files by converting them to DWG files, which are the standard file type for AutoCAD files.

Quick Steps to Opening a DGN in AutoCAD

In AutoCAD, click the A button in the upper-left, then click Open. Select DGN, then navigate to your DGN file. Go through the DGN import settings screen, then click OK. Your DGN file is now open in AutoCAD as a DWG file, AutoCAD's standard filetype.

Steps

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It's the app that has an icon with a red capital "A".
It's the button with a red capital "A" in the top-left corner. This will open a drop-down menu.

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It's the second option at the top of the Application menu. It's next to an image of an open folder. This will expand another drop-down menu to the right.
It's at the bottom of the menu next to the image of a piece of paper with a blue arrow. This will open a new window to select your file.
Use the browse window to navigate to a DGN file and select it.
It's located in the lower-right corner of the browse menu. This will open up an import settings window.
Select a design model from the box on the left and select any other import options you would like, such as choosing a Mapping Setup, or altering the Layer, Linetype, Lineweight, or Color options.
This will open the DGN file in AutoCAD after converting it to the DWG format.