Web accessibility: guides, RGAA 5, WCAG 2.2 and best practices
A11y Resources is an independent bilingual resource for building accessible websites: RGAA 4.1.2 in force, preparing for RGAA 5 (publication announced for end of 2026), WCAG 2.2, ARIA, testing and tools.
The essentials in 30 seconds
- RGAA 4.1.2 is the version in force in France (106 criteria, 258 tests, 13 themes, based on WCAG 2.1 level AA).
- RGAA 5 is being drafted by DINUM, with publication announced for end of 2026. It will integrate WCAG 2.2 and extend scope to mobile apps and documents.
- Statements based on RGAA 4.1.2 stay valid for 18 months after RGAA 5 is published, capped at 3 years after their own publication.
- Don’t pause: keep fixing against RGAA 4.1.2 and adopt the six WCAG 2.2 level A and AA criteria now.
Where do we stand: RGAA 4.1.2, WCAG 2.2 and RGAA 5?
Three texts overlap. RGAA 4.1.2 is the French verification method required today. WCAG 2.2, a W3C Recommendation since 5 October 2023, is already stable. RGAA 5 will take over most of it.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 16 February 2021 | RGAA 4.1 published |
| 2023 | RGAA 4.1.2, the version currently in force |
| 5 October 2023 | WCAG 2.2 becomes a W3C Recommendation (9 new success criteria) |
| March 2026 | DINUM officially announces RGAA 5 |
| September 2026 | EN 301 549 V4.1.1 published, integrating WCAG 2.2; RGAA 5 presented at Paris Web (24 September) |
| End of 2026 (announced) | RGAA 5 publication planned, preceded by a beta version |
The four POUR principles of WCAG
Every accessibility requirement belongs to one of these four principles. Full detail in the fundamentals guide.
- Perceivable
- Transcripts, text alternatives, sufficient contrast, clear visual organisation.
- Operable
- Keyboard navigation, logical tab order, skip links, large enough touch targets.
- Understandable
- Declared language, consistent behaviour, simple instructions, cognitive accessibility.
- Robust
- Compatibility with assistive technologies, correct ARIA, valid code.
Where to start
Pick the entry point that matches your need.
RGAA 5
Timeline, changes, statement validity and a checklist to prepare for RGAA 5, due end of 2026.
Fundamentals
The complete guide: POUR principles, keyboard, forms, ARIA, overlays, testing, i18n.
Keyboard navigation
Tab order, visible focus, skip link, keyboard traps and WCAG 2.4.11.
Accessible forms
Labels, errors, grouping, autocomplete and accessible authentication.
Tools
axe, WAVE, Lighthouse, pa11y, contrast checkers and screen readers, with their limits.
Best practices
Contrast, alternatives, ARIA, WCAG 2.2, SEO, Core Web Vitals and certifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which RGAA version applies in 2026?
RGAA 4.1.2 remains in force until RGAA 5 is published, announced for the end of 2026. DINUM asks that no accessibility work be suspended.
Will my RGAA 4.1.2 audit remain valid?
For a limited time: per DINUM, statements established on RGAA 4.1.2 stay valid 18 months after RGAA 5 is published, within three years of their own publication date.
What is the difference between RGAA, WCAG and EN 301 549?
WCAG is the W3C’s international standard. EN 301 549 is the European standard that incorporates its requirements. RGAA is the French verification method, broken into criteria and tests.
Should I wait for RGAA 5 to apply WCAG 2.2?
No. WCAG 2.2 has been published since October 2023 and its six level A and AA criteria should not change in substance. Adopting them now avoids rework in 2027.