Aria Input Field Name
Critical - WCAG Level A
What the issue is:
The accessibility issue arises when ARIA input fields lack an accessible name, making it difficult for users of assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to understand the purpose of the input. Without a proper label, users may be confused about what information is expected in the field, leading to frustration and potential errors when filling out forms.
Why it matters:
Accessible names are crucial for users with disabilities, particularly those relying on screen readers. These tools read out the name of the input field, allowing users to navigate forms effectively. If an input field does not have an accessible name, it can lead to a poor user experience, as users may not know what data to enter, which can hinder their ability to complete tasks successfully.
How to fix it:
Identify Input Fields: Locate all ARIA input fields in your code that are missing accessible names.
Add Labels: Use the
<label>element to provide a name for the input field. Ensure theforattribute of the label matches theidof the input field.Use ARIA Attributes: If a label cannot be visually associated with the input field, use the
aria-labeloraria-labelledbyattributes to define an accessible name directly on the input field.
Best practices:
Always prefer using a
<label>element over ARIA attributes when possible, as it provides better semantics and is more widely supported.Ensure that the label is descriptive enough to convey the purpose of the input field.
Common mistakes:
Using empty labels or labels that do not convey meaningful information.
Forgetting to associate the label with the input field using the
forattribute.Relying solely on ARIA attributes without providing a visible label when possible.