Level AASince WCAG 2.1

1.4.13 Content on Hover or Focus

Guideline 1.4: Distinguishable – Content is easy to see and hear: contrast, size, spacing.

What does the rule require?

Tooltips and pop-up content that appear on hover or focus can be dismissed (Esc), stay when the pointer moves onto them, and do not vanish on their own.

How to get it right

Close tooltips with the Esc key, keep them open while pointer or focus is on them, and do not use a timer to hide them.

Who benefits most?

People with low vision
People with motor disabilities

Official wording

This page explains the rule in simple words. Only the original W3C text is normative.

“Understanding Content on Hover or Focus” at W3C (external site)
Techniques in the WCAG Quick Reference (external site)