WCAG 2.1 Level AA
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 are the globally recognized standard for digital accessibility, published by the W3C. Level AA is the legal benchmark referenced by ADA Title III settlements, the DOJ's 2024 Final Rule, Section 508, EN 301 549 (EU), and AODA (Ontario).
Perceivable. Operable. Understandable. Robust.
Perceivable
Information and UI components must be presentable in ways users can perceive — text alternatives for images, captions for video, sufficient color contrast (4.5:1 for body text), and content that adapts to assistive tech.
Operable
All functionality must be available from a keyboard. Users need enough time to read content, no seizure-inducing flashes, and clear navigation aids like skip links, page titles, and focus order.
Understandable
Text must be readable, content must behave predictably, and forms must help users avoid and correct mistakes — clear labels, error identification, and consistent navigation across the site.
Robust
Content must work reliably with current and future assistive technologies — valid HTML, proper ARIA roles, and name/role/value exposed for every UI component.
What Level AA requires.
Level AA covers all 30 Level A criteria plus 20 additional Level AA criteria — 50 total. Below are the most commonly cited requirements during ADA lawsuits and demand letters.
- Color contrast 4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text and UI components
- All functionality available via keyboard — no keyboard traps
- Text resize up to 200% without loss of content or function
- Captions for all pre-recorded video content
- Audio descriptions or alternative for pre-recorded video
- Multiple ways to find pages (search, sitemap, menu)
- Section headings used to organize content
- Visible focus indicators on all interactive elements
- Form inputs labeled and errors clearly identified
- Status messages announced by screen readers
- Content reflows on mobile down to 320px wide
- Touch targets at least 44×44px
Get certified to WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
ADA Active Shield audits, remediates, and certifies your site against every Level AA success criterion — then keeps it compliant year-round with our active widget and annual recertification.