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Accessibility Compliance Standards

Understand the accessibility standards and regulations that apply to your organization. From WCAG to ADA to Section 508, we help you navigate compliance requirements and test against the right criteria.

How Accessibility Standards Relate

WCAG

WCAG is the Technical Foundation

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide the specific technical requirements. Most laws and regulations reference WCAG as their standard.

ADA

ADA (US Private Sector)

Applies to businesses open to the public. Courts reference WCAG 2.1 AA as the standard.

508

Section 508 (US Federal)

Applies to federal agencies and contractors. Directly incorporates WCAG 2.0 AA.

EU

EN 301 549 (European)

Applies to EU public sector and expanding to private. Incorporates WCAG 2.1 AA.

Which Standard Applies to You?

US Private Businesses

  • ADA Title III applies to your website
  • Target WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance
  • Consider preparing for WCAG 2.2
Learn about ADA compliance

US Federal Agencies & Contractors

  • Section 508 is required
  • Must meet WCAG 2.0 AA (update coming)
  • VPAT documentation often required
Learn about Section 508

European Organizations

  • EN 301 549 is the standard
  • Incorporates WCAG 2.1 AA
  • European Accessibility Act expanding scope
Learn about EN 301 549

Best Practice Recommendation

  • Target WCAG 2.1 Level AA minimum
  • Prepare for WCAG 2.2 criteria
  • Implement continuous monitoring
Learn about WCAG 2.1 AA

Check Your Compliance Status

Run a free accessibility scan to see how your site measures up against WCAG, ADA, and other standards.

Start Free Compliance Scan