Operable · Level A · Introduced in WCAG 2.0
WCAG 2.2.1: Timing Adjustable
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
For time limits imposed by content, let users turn them off, adjust them sufficiently or extend them under the criterion's conditions, unless a defined exception applies. People need enough time to read, decide and enter information.
A practical example
A benefits form warns before session expiry and offers a simple Extend session action. The warning allows at least 20 seconds to respond, and the session can be extended at least ten times when this option is used.
How to check it
- Inventory session, quiz, form and confirmation time limits controlled by the application.
- Verify the selected route: off before encounter, adjustment to at least ten times the default, or compliant warning and repeated extension.
- Test with the keyboard and check whether any real-time, essential or longer-than-20-hour exception is justified.
What can be missed
A warning that appears for five seconds is not enough for the extension route. Security requirements should be analyzed carefully rather than assumed to exempt every session timeout.
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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.