What are the differences between WCAG Levels A, AA, and AAA?

WCAG – Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

The WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) define three levels of accessibility:

Level A – Minimum Requirements

This level ensures that basic barriers are removed.

Examples:

• Images have alternative text.

• Content is accessible via keyboard.

• Videos do not autoplay.

Target group:
People with mild impairments or users of assistive technologies.

Level AA – Standard for Legal Requirements

This level includes all Level A requirements plus additional improvements for broader accessibility.

Examples:

• Sufficient contrast (at least 4.5:1).

• Consistent navigation.

• Form fields are properly labeled.

Note:
Level AA is legally required in many countries – including Germany’s BITV and BFSG.

Level AAA – Highest Level of Accessibility

This level goes far beyond legal minimum requirements.

Examples:

• Very high color contrast (at least 7:1).

• Sign language videos for content.

• Text is especially easy to understand.

Note:
Level AAA is rarely realistic for entire websites but is recommended for specific content.

Conclusion