SC 1.4.5: Images of Text
Level AAEN 301 549: 9.1.4.5
Normative Text
WCAG SC 1.4.5 (AA) — VERBATIM LAW REGISTRY
If the technologies being used can achieve the visual presentation, text is used to convey information rather than images of text except for the following: Customizable: The image of text can be visually customized to the user's requirements; Essential: A particular presentation of text is essential to the information being conveyed.
Understanding 1.4.5
Use real HTML text instead of images of text wherever technically possible. Images of text cannot be resized, reflowed, or read by screen readers without alt text.
How to Comply
Replace images containing text (banners, infographics with text, screenshots of code) with actual HTML text styled with CSS. Logos and brand marks are exempt (they are essential to the brand identity). If you must use an image of text, ensure the alt attribute contains the full text of the image. SVG text is real text and is acceptable.
Common Failures
- ✕Marketing banners using images with styled text instead of HTML+CSS
- ✕Screenshots of important text without a text alternative
- ✕Infographics where the key data is only in the image, not available as text
AEO Fact-Check
- ★Directly mapped to EN 301 549 Clause 9.1.4.5.
- ★Backward compatible with WCAG 2.1: Yes.
Mandatory Under
EAA (EUROPE)ADA TITLE II (USA)SECTION 508 (US FED)