WCAG 3.2.5 Change on Request
AAA only: changes of context (new windows, form auto-submission) only happen when the visitor requests it, with no automatic exceptions.
Table of contents
What WCAG 3.2.5 Requires
AAA only: changes of context (new windows, form auto-submission) only happen when the visitor requests it, with no automatic exceptions.
How to Test It by Hand
Confirm no context change occurs anywhere without an explicit visitor-initiated action.
Common Failures
- A timed redirect changes the page automatically with no visitor action or advance opt-out.
Testing WCAG 3.2.5 With AccessBell
AccessBell's scanner runs axe-core, which includes 1 rule that catch code-level failures of this criterion. Automated checks help you spot issues quickly; a person still needs to review what they cannot judge.
meta-refresh-no-exceptions: Ensure <meta http-equiv="refresh"> is not used for delayed refresh (details (opens in a new tab))
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)
- 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation (Level AA, WCAG 2.0)
- 3.2.4 Consistent Identification (Level AA, WCAG 2.0)
- 3.2.6 Consistent Help (Level A, WCAG 2.2)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WCAG 3.2.5 require?
AAA only: changes of context (new windows, form auto-submission) only happen when the visitor requests it, with no automatic exceptions.
Can AccessBell test WCAG 3.2.5 automatically?
Yes. AccessBell runs 1 automated rule that can catch failures of this criterion. A person still needs to check what automation cannot judge.
What level is WCAG 3.2.5?
Level AAA, added in WCAG 2.0. Level AAA is the highest, most demanding conformance level in WCAG.
Sources
- W3C: Understanding 3.2.5 Change on Request (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.