Understandable · Predictable

3.2.3 Consistent Navigation

Navigation that repeats across multiple pages (a main menu, a footer) must appear in the same relative order each time, so visitors can build a mental model of the site.

Level AA Added in WCAG 2.0 Needs manual review

What WCAG 3.2.3 Requires

Navigation that repeats across multiple pages (a main menu, a footer) must appear in the same relative order each time, so visitors can build a mental model of the site.

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

Compare the navigation menu across several pages and confirm the items appear in the same order.

Common Failures

  • The main navigation menu reorders its items differently depending on the page.

WCAG 3.2.3 Questions

What does WCAG 3.2.3 require?

Navigation that repeats across multiple pages (a main menu, a footer) must appear in the same relative order each time, so visitors can build a mental model of the site.

Can AccessBell test WCAG 3.2.3 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 3.2.3?

Level AA, added in WCAG 2.0. Level AA is required to meet WCAG AA, the level referenced by the ADA, Section 508 and most accessibility laws.

Sources

This page explains a technical standard and is not legal advice. See our disclaimer.

Check Your Site Against WCAG 3.2.3

Run a free scan and see whether your pages pass 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation, along with every other criterion in WCAG 2.2, 2.1 or 2.0.

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