WCAG 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.
Table of contents
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.
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.
Testing WCAG 3.2.3 With AccessBell
This criterion depends on meaning or context, so it needs a person to judge. AccessBell's report lists it for manual review rather than marking it pass or fail automatically, so it is not missed.
Run a free scan to spot issues on your own pages.
Related Criteria in Predictable
- 3.2.1 On Focus (Level A, WCAG 2.0)
- 3.2.2 On Input (Level A, WCAG 2.0)
- 3.2.4 Consistent Identification (Level AA, WCAG 2.0)
- 3.2.5 Change on Request (Level AAA, WCAG 2.0)
- 3.2.6 Consistent Help (Level A, WCAG 2.2)
Frequently Asked 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 the level referenced by the ADA, Section 508 and most accessibility laws.
Sources
- W3C: Understanding 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation (opens in a new tab)
- W3C: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 (opens in a new tab)
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