WCAG 2.2 success criteria, explained
WCAG 2.2 has 86 success criteria. Most laws, including the European Accessibility Act and the ADA, point to levels A and AA. Pick a criterion to see what it means, code that fails and passes, and whether an automated scanner can find problems.
1. Perceivable
People must be able to perceive the content: text alternatives, captions, structure and contrast.
2. Operable
People must be able to use the interface: keyboard access, enough time, no seizures, clear navigation.
3. Understandable
Content and behavior must be understandable: readable language, predictable pages, help with input.
| Criterion | Level | Added in |
|---|---|---|
| 3.1.1 Language of Page | A | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.1.2 Language of Parts | AA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.1.3 Unusual Words | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.1.4 Abbreviations | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.1.5 Reading Level | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.1.6 Pronunciation | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.2.1 On Focus | A | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.2.2 On Input | A | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation | AA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.2.4 Consistent Identification | AA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.2.5 Change on Request | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.2.6 Consistent Help | A | New in WCAG 2.2 |
| 3.3.1 Error Identification | A | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.3.2 Labels or Instructions | A | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.3.3 Error Suggestion | AA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.3.4 Error Prevention (Legal, Financial, Data) | AA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.3.5 Help | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.3.6 Error Prevention (All) | AAA | WCAG 2.0 |
| 3.3.7 Redundant Entry | A | New in WCAG 2.2 |
| 3.3.8 Accessible Authentication (Minimum) | AA | New in WCAG 2.2 |
| 3.3.9 Accessible Authentication (Enhanced) | AAA | New in WCAG 2.2 |
4. Robust
Content must work reliably with browsers and assistive technologies.
| Criterion | Level | Added in |
|---|---|---|
| 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value | A | WCAG 2.0 |
| 4.1.3 Status Messages | AA | WCAG 2.1 |