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Level AAWCAG 2.0

3.2.4 Consistent Identification

Components that have the same functionality within a set of web pages are identified consistently.

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026

Understanding 3.2.4

This criterion ensures that components with the same function, such as a search icon button or a print link, are labeled and represented consistently across a set of pages. This matters most for screen reader users and people with cognitive disabilities, who rely on recognizing a familiar label or icon to know what a control does without re-examining it every time it appears.

How to Meet It

Use the same text label, icon, and accessible name for a given function everywhere it appears: for example, always "Search," not sometimes "Search" and sometimes "Find." Keep the alt text or aria-label for functionally identical icons the same across the site. Minor variation is acceptable when the additional text adds necessary specificity ("Search" vs. "Search products"), as long as the function remains clearly recognizable and consistent.

Code Examples

INCORRECT
<!-- Page A --> <button aria-label="Search"><svg>...</svg></button>
<!-- Page B --> <button aria-label="Find"><svg>...</svg></button>
<!-- Same icon and function, but inconsistent accessible name -->
CORRECT
<!-- Page A --> <button aria-label="Search"><svg>...</svg></button>
<!-- Page B --> <button aria-label="Search"><svg>...</svg></button>
<!-- Same function, same accessible name everywhere -->

Frequently Asked Questions

Do icons need identical alt text everywhere even if the surrounding page differs?

The accessible name for a given function should stay consistent site-wide. You can add page-specific context elsewhere, such as a visible heading, without changing the control's own accessible name.

Related Success Criteria

3.2.1 On Focus3.2.2 On Input3.2.3 Consistent Navigation3.2.5 Change on Request

Quick Facts

  • Criterion3.2.4
  • LevelAA
  • IntroducedWCAG 2.0

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