Perceivable · Level AA · Introduced in WCAG 2.1
WCAG 1.4.13: Content on Hover or Focus
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Additional content triggered by hover or keyboard focus must satisfy the dismissible, hoverable and persistent conditions where they apply. Users need time and a stable way to inspect the revealed information.
A practical example
A product tooltip appears above a help icon. It can be dismissed without moving focus, stays open when the pointer moves onto it, and remains available while it is being read instead of disappearing on a timer.
How to check it
- Trigger the additional content with both pointer hover and keyboard focus where supported.
- Try dismissing it without moving the pointer or focus, and move the pointer onto the additional content.
- Check that it persists until the trigger is removed, the user dismisses it or the information is no longer valid.
What can be missed
There are defined exceptions, including certain content controlled by the browser and dismissibility cases. Avoid treating every tooltip-like widget as automatically exempt.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.