🟢 Level A

WCAG 3.1.1: Language of Page

Success Criterion 3.1.1 — Level A

Quick Answer

The default language of each page must be identified in the code.

Why It Matters

Without lang attribute, screen readers guess the language and may mispronounce content.

How to Audit

Run an automated accessibility scan to detect common Language of Page 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 Language of Page issues — manual testing is essential.

How to Fix

Add lang='en' (or appropriate language code) to the <html> element on every page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is WCAG 3.1.1 Language of Page?

The default language of each page must be identified in the code.

Is WCAG 3.1.1 required for ADA compliance?

WCAG 2.1 Level A is the minimum baseline for ADA website compliance. Courts have upheld WCAG 2.1 AA as the standard for ADA Title III lawsuits.

How do I fix WCAG 3.1.1 violations?

Add lang='en' (or appropriate language code) to the <html> element on every page.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified ADA/accessibility attorney for your specific compliance situation.

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