WCAG 1.2.4: Captions Live
Success Criterion 1.2.4 — Level AA
Quick Answer
Live audio content in video must have captions.
Why It Matters
Live events, webinars, and video calls without captions exclude deaf participants.
How to Audit
Run an automated accessibility scan to detect common Captions Live failures. Then manually verify with: keyboard-only navigation, a screen reader (VoiceOver on Mac, NVDA on Windows), and browser developer tools. Automated tools catch approximately 40% of Captions Live issues — manual testing is essential.
How to Fix
Use live captioning services or AI tools for real-time captions on live video content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WCAG 1.2.4 Captions Live?
Live audio content in video must have captions.
Is WCAG 1.2.4 required for ADA compliance?
WCAG 2.1 Level AA is the standard referenced in most ADA website lawsuits and DOJ guidance. All Level AA criteria including this one are relevant to legal compliance.
How do I fix WCAG 1.2.4 violations?
Use live captioning services or AI tools for real-time captions on live video content.
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