What WCAG 2.4.11 Requires
When an element receives keyboard focus, it must not be entirely hidden by other content, such as a sticky header or cookie banner, at least partially.
Can AccessBell Test This Automatically?
Not fully. Like most WCAG criteria that depend on meaning or context, this one needs a person to judge. AccessBell's report lists it for manual review rather than marking it pass or fail automatically, so it never gets missed.
How to Test It by Hand
Tab through the page with a sticky header or footer present and confirm the focused element is never completely covered.
Common Failures
- A sticky header covers the top of the page, hiding focused links as the visitor tabs down.
- A cookie consent banner sits over form fields and is never dismissed before focus reaches them.
Related Criteria in Navigable
WCAG 2.4.11 Questions
What does WCAG 2.4.11 require?
When an element receives keyboard focus, it must not be entirely hidden by other content, such as a sticky header or cookie banner, at least partially.
Can AccessBell test WCAG 2.4.11 automatically?
Not fully. This criterion needs a person to judge, so AccessBell's report lists it for manual review rather than marking it pass or fail on its own.
What level is WCAG 2.4.11?
Level AA, added in WCAG 2.2. Level AA is required to meet WCAG AA, the level referenced by the ADA, Section 508 and most accessibility laws.
Sources
- W3C: Understanding 2.4.11 Focus Not Obscured (Minimum) (opens in a new tab)
- W3C: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 (opens in a new tab)
This page explains a technical standard and is not legal advice. See our disclaimer.