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WCAG 2.2: What’s New & How to Test for Compliance

2-5 min read

WCAG 2.2: What’s New & How to Test for Compliance

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 is the newest version of the global standard that helps make websites accessible to people with disabilities. Published as a W3C Recommendation in October 2023, WCAG 2.2 builds on 2.1 by introducing new success criteria focused on cognitive, visual, and motor accessibility.

In this guide from GetWCAG.com, you’ll learn what’s new in WCAG 2.2, why it matters, and how to test your website for compliance using practical tools and methods.


What Is WCAG 2.2?

WCAG is a set of guidelines from the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) that define how to make digital content accessible. WCAG 2.2 is backward-compatible with WCAG 2.1, so if your website already meets 2.1, you’re on the right track—but not fully compliant.

WCAG is built on four core principles: content must be Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR).


What’s New in WCAG 2.2?

WCAG 2.2 introduces nine new success criteria, mainly at Level A and AA, to better support users with cognitive, motor, and low-vision disabilities.

Highlights include:

  • Focus Appearance (Level AA): Stronger visual focus indicators
  • Focus Not Obscured (AA & AAA): Ensure focused elements aren’t hidden
  • Dragging Movements (AA): Support alternatives to dragging
  • Target Size Minimum (AA): Make touch targets easier to tap
  • Accessible Authentication (AA & AAA): Reduce reliance on memory or CAPTCHAs
  • Redundant Entry (A): Don’t force users to re-enter known data

These updates reflect real-world accessibility barriers that many users still face today.

Why WCAG 2.2 Compliance Matters

  • Legal Protection: WCAG is referenced in laws like the ADA, EN 301 549, and Canada’s ACA.
  • Better UX for Everyone: Features like easier navigation and clearer focus help all users.
  • SEO Boost: Accessible, well-structured content can help improve search rankings.

    How to Test Your Website for WCAG 2.2

    1. Use an Automated Accessibility Scanner

Start with a fast scan from tools like:

These tools identify common issues like missing alt text, contrast problems, and focus traps.

2. Manually Test Critical Flows

Automated tools only catch 30–40% of issues. Manually check:

  • Keyboard navigation

  • Focus visibility

  • Screen reader behavior

  • Form label and error message pairing

  • CAPTCHA alternatives

    3. Test with Assistive Technologies

Validate your website using:

  • Screen readers (NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)

  • Zoom/magnifier tools

  • Switch devices or voice navigation

    4. Review Against the WCAG 2.2 Checklist

Use the official W3C WCAG 2.2 Quick Reference to verify each success criterion.

Choosing the Right Testing Tool

When selecting a WCAG scanner, look for:

  • WCAG 2.2 support

  • Clear, developer-friendly issue reports

  • Integration with your dev workflow

  • Exportable scan results for compliance tracking

Pro Tip: Pair automated scans with manual reviews for the most accurate compliance snapshot.

Final Thoughts

WCAG 2.2 is a practical step forward in digital accessibility. The new criteria help make websites more usable for everyone—not just users with disabilities.

If you're unsure whether your website complies with WCAG 2.2, run a free scan today with GetWCAG.com. Our tools and audits help you catch critical issues early and build with accessibility in mind.
Start your WCAG 2.2 scan now — it's fast, free, and audit-ready

WCAG 2.2: What’s New & How to Test for Compliance | GetWCAG Blog