WCAG checklist
The WCAG guidelines are extensive, and for many organizations it’s hard to know where to start. This checklist gives you a practical overview of the most important WCAG AA requirements—the level most websites aim for. Go through it, see where you stand, and identify what still needs attention.
Visible to everyone
The content of your website must be visible or audible to everyone, regardless of ability.
- Do all images have descriptive alt text?
- Are videos provided with captions?
- Is there sufficient color contrast between text and background (at least 4.5:1)?
- Is information never conveyed by color alone?
- Can the page be zoomed in up to 200% without losing content?
Fully operable
Every function on your website must be usable without a mouse.
- Can the entire website be navigated using only a keyboard?
- Is there a visible focus indicator when using keyboard navigation?
- Do links and buttons have clear, descriptive labels?
- Are there no elements that move automatically without the ability to pause or stop them?
- Do users have enough time to complete forms?
Easy to understand
Text, navigation, and forms must be clear and predictable.
- Is the page language defined in the HTML?
- Are form error messages clear and descriptive?
- Is navigation consistent across all pages?
- Are unusual words or abbreviations explained?
- Are unexpected changes in context avoided during input?
Functional and reliable
Your website must work properly with assistive technologies such as screen readers.
- Is the HTML valid and error-free?
- Do interactive elements use appropriate ARIA labels where needed?
- Does the website work correctly with common screen readers?
- Are status messages programmatically available without changing focus?
Legal requirements are tightening
Public sector organizations are already required to comply with WCAG 2.1 level AA across Europe. For commercial businesses, that pressure is increasing as well. The European Accessibility Act came into effect in 2025 and introduces stricter requirements for digital products and services. Building accessibility into your website now isn’t just smart—it’s becoming a legal requirement.
How we handle WCAG
At The Dare Company, we build websites with accessibility as a starting point. We test against the most relevant WCAG criteria during both design and development, ensuring your website works well for as many people as possible. Want to know how your current website performs? We’re happy to take a look with you.
Need help with your WCAG audit?
A checklist shows where you stand, but not always how to fix it. We’re happy to help you move forward; from a technical audit to a fully accessible website that also performs well in Google.