TopoDOT
5.7/10TopoDOT is a MicroStation-based point cloud processing application that turns LiDAR and scan data into CAD topography and 3D models for infrastructure projects.
Data last updated November 2026 · Our methodology
Overview
TopoDOT, made by TopoDOT Solutions in Winter Garden, Florida (formerly Certainty 3D), is software for extracting features from point clouds. It runs as an application inside Bentley MicroStation. Users import LiDAR from mobile mapping, UAV, or terrestrial scanners, along with calibrated imagery, in formats such as LAS, E57, and Bentley POD. They then extract topography, linework, and 3D CAD models with a mix of semi-automated and manual tools. Typical uses are roads, rail, tunnels, powerline corridors, bridge clearance, BIM, change monitoring, and encroachment analysis. Several US state departments of transportation are among its long-standing customers, and the vendor reports more than 8,000 users in over 35 countries. Related products are TopoShare, a survey data governance portal with a free Basic tier and a paid Enterprise tier, and two free web planning tools, TopoPlanner and TopoMission. Licensing is unusual: you pay an up-front license fee by level, then usage rates. A 2021 article says the license is owned permanently and covers unlimited users, with usage costs that can be charged to individual projects. No list prices are published, so you need to contact sales for a quote. The main limitation is the MicroStation dependency, which adds Bentley licensing costs, and surveyors who don't know MicroStation will need structured training.
Our Rating
Who TopoDOT is best for
Good fit
It produces CAD deliverables from scan data for survey and engineering production work.
Several US state DOTs use it for transportation modeling.
Less suited
It processes UAV LiDAR, but a MicroStation seat and trained operators are required.
Powerline modeling and clearance analysis are documented uses.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Semi-automated extraction keeps a user verification step, and manual tools are available alongside it
- Forum users found its extraction tools intuitive and easier to use than Polyworks
- According to a 2021 review, the license covers unlimited users and can move to a new machine
- Usage costs can be charged to individual project budgets
- Proven with several US state DOTs for transportation corridor modeling
Cons
- Requires Bentley MicroStation, which adds licensing costs and a learning curve
- Extraction work needs trained operators
- No public list prices
- Little independent review coverage available
Key Features
TopoDOT Pricing
TopoShare Enterprise
- Data warehouse
- Enterprise portal for sharing datasets
TopoDOT license (by level, plus usage rates)
- Quote from sales
- Up-front license fee by level, then usage rates
- Unlimited users per plan, according to a 2021 review
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. It runs as an application inside Bentley MicroStation, so you need a MicroStation license as well.
The vendor has historically offered a 30-day trial license and web demos on request.
You pay an up-front license fee by level, then usage rates. A 2021 review says each plan covers unlimited users. There are no public prices.
It reads LAS, ASTM E57, and Bentley POD, among other formats, plus calibrated imagery.
Yes. TopoPlanner and TopoMission are free web tools for planning and estimating scanning projects, and TopoShare has a free Basic tier.
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