Perceivable · Level AA · Introduced in WCAG 2.0
WCAG 1.4.3: Contrast (Minimum)
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Ordinary text needs a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background; large text needs 3:1. Large means at least 18 points, or 14 points when bold. Evaluate the rendered colors and applicable exceptions.
A practical example
A 16-pixel checkout hint uses a pale gray that measures 3.2:1 against white. It needs a darker color for this AA text requirement even though a large heading could meet a lower threshold.
How to check it
- Inventory text styles and states, including placeholder text, hover content and validation messages.
- Measure foreground against the actual background, accounting for transparency, gradients and images.
- Compare the unrounded ratio with the applicable threshold and record the colors, size, weight and location.
What can be missed
Do not round 4.49 up to a pass. Logotypes, inactive controls and certain incidental text have exceptions, but branding ordinary body copy does not create a logo exception.
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.