WCAG 1.3.6: Identify Purpose

WCAG 1.3.6 Identify Purpose is a level AAA success criterion from WCAG 2.1. Regions and icons can be marked so user agents can adapt them, for example identifying a search region or a home link.

People who use custom symbols or simplified interfaces need the purpose in the markup, not only in the design.

How to test

Check that landmarks and common icons expose their purpose, not only a picture.

How to fix

Use landmarks and accessible names. For icons, add a text name.

Example that fails

A house icon link has no accessible name.

Example that passes the check

The house icon link is named Home.

Shopify

Name icon links in the header section with aria-label or visually hidden text: Home, Search, Cart, Account.

WooCommerce

Add screen-reader text to header icons in the theme.

WordPress

Name icon links in the navigation block or theme template.

Wix

Set the accessible name on icon buttons in the Editor.

Related fixes