Many of our clients ask the same question: “Can I buy SOLIDWORKS once and own it forever?”

The answer is yes – you can buy SOLIDWORKS permanently through a perpetual license.
This type of license gives you lifetime ownership of the software, allowing you to use it indefinitely without the need for renewal.

At MECAD Systems, we help South African designers, engineers, and manufacturers choose the right licensing model for their needs – whether that’s a flexible short-term subscription or a once-off perpetual purchase.

1. What Is a Perpetual SOLIDWORKS License?

A perpetual licence allows you to purchase SOLIDWORKS once and keep it forever. You’ll own that version of the software indefinitely, with no expiry date or time-based limitation.

Your perpetual licence gives you full access to SOLIDWORKS’ core design features, and you can continue using it for as long as your hardware and operating system support it.

However, the key difference lies in maintenance.

While the licence itself never expires, the annual maintenance subscription provides continuous updates, new versions, bug fixes, and access to additional support and training.

In other words, you’ll always own your license, but your access to future improvements depends on whether you renew your maintenance.

2. Perpetual vs Term Licensing

SOLIDWORKS is available in two main licensing structures:

Through our online SOLIDWORKS shop, we offer 3-month and 1-year term licenses for immediate purchase.

For perpetual licenses, our sales team works directly with you to configure the right package, edition, and maintenance plan – ensuring your investment matches your long-term goals.

3. Benefits of Buying SOLIDWORKS Permanently

Purchasing SOLIDWORKS as a perpetual license offers several long-term advantages:

3.1. Lifetime Ownership

You retain permanent rights to the version you purchase. Even if you choose not to renew maintenance, your licence remains active and usable indefinitely.

3.2. Long-Term Value

Although the initial cost is higher, a perpetual license can be more cost-effective over time for users who rely on SOLIDWORKS daily.

3.3. Stable Workflow

A perpetual setup gives you full control over your design environment. You decide when to update your software – ensuring stability across teams and projects.

3.4. Professional Credibility

Owning your licence outright demonstrates a serious, long-term commitment to professional CAD software. It reassures clients and partners that you’re equipped with the best tools in the industry.

4. Costs and Considerations

When deciding whether to buy SOLIDWORKS permanently, it’s important to consider both the upfront cost and the optional annual maintenance.

4.1. Initial Investment

Perpetual licenses cost more initially than term-based licences because they include full ownership rights. Prices vary depending on the edition – Standard, Professional, or Premium – as well as any add-ons like SOLIDWORKS Simulation, SOLIDWORKS CAM, or SOLIDWORKS PDM.

4.2. Annual Maintenance

Most professionals choose to renew maintenance annually. This provides:

• Access to the latest SOLIDWORKS versions and service packs
• Dedicated local support from our certified application engineering team
• Compatibility with the latest operating systems and hardware.

If you choose not to renew, you’ll still own your software, but it will remain fixed at your current version. Over time, this can limit file compatibility and access to newer tools.

5. How We Handle Perpetual Licenses

Unlike term-based licences, perpetual licences aren’t sold directly through our online store.

We handle these directly through our sales team to ensure you receive accurate pricing, proper setup, and a tailored solution.

Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Consultation: We help you choose the right licence type (Standard, Professional, or Premium) and any add-ons you may need.
2. Quotation: We prepare a detailed quote in rand, including optional maintenance and training packages.
3. Implementation: Once purchased, we assist with installation, activation, and setup – ensuring you’re fully operational.
4. Support: If you keep your maintenance active, you’ll receive continuous updates, local technical support, and access to our learning resources.

We manage the process end-to-end, making sure you’re fully supported before, during, and after purchase.

6. Is a Perpetual License Right for You?

A perpetual licence is the best fit if:

• You use SOLIDWORKS consistently and long term.
• You prefer stable workflows and want control over updates.
• You value ownership and plan to keep using SOLIDWORKS for years to come.

If you only need the software for short projects, a term-based licence may offer better flexibility at a lower upfront cost. It provides the same professional features and can be upgraded or extended at any time.

Whichever option you choose, our team will help you assess your usage, forecast your needs, and recommend the most cost-effective approach.

7. The Bottom Line

So, can you buy SOLIDWORKS permanently? Yes – and you can do it directly through us.

A perpetual license gives you lifetime ownership of your SOLIDWORKS software, ensuring stability, control, and professional credibility for your business. With our expert guidance, local support, and Enhanced Subscription benefits, you’ll always have the right tools and assistance to stay productive.

To discuss your options or request a tailored quote, contact our sales team or visit our SOLIDWORKS Shop.

We’ll help you find the right balance between cost, flexibility, and long-term value.