Level AASince WCAG 2.0
1.4.5 Images of Text
Guideline 1.4: Distinguishable – Content is easy to see and hear: contrast, size, spacing.
What does the rule require?
Text is real text, not a picture of text. Real text can be enlarged, recoloured and read aloud. Logos are exempt.
How to get it right
Build headings and banners with HTML and CSS instead of graphics with baked-in text.
Who benefits most?
- People with low vision
- People with cognitive disabilities
Official wording
This page explains the rule in simple words. Only the original W3C text is normative.
- “Understanding Images of Text” at W3C (external site)
- Techniques in the WCAG Quick Reference (external site)