Operable · Level AA · Introduced in WCAG 2.2
WCAG 2.5.7: Dragging Movements
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Functions requiring a dragging movement need a single-pointer alternative without dragging, unless dragging is essential or the behavior is an unmodified browser function. Reordering controls and precise placement often need an explicit alternative.
A practical example
A task board moves cards only by dragging. Add a “Move task” control that lets the user choose a destination column and position through taps or clicks.
How to check it
- Inventory sortable lists, sliders, drawing handles, upload zones and other drag interactions.
- Find an equivalent action requiring only individual pointer activations.
- Complete the same outcome with that alternative and check that its state update is visible and understandable.
What can be missed
Keyboard arrow-key support is valuable but does not alone meet the single-pointer requirement. Do not assume an off-the-shelf drag library supplies the needed alternative.
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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.