WCAG 2.2 Exceptions and Options

[mgifford]

Exceptions and Options were raised in the call today, so I asked ChatGPT to highlight them for us to be aware of.

A WCAG 2.2 reference table where each Success Criterion (SC) has:

• A link to the SC itself.
• A link to the Understanding doc.
• A short note on exceptions.
• A short note on options (sufficient techniques / alternative ways to comply).

WCAG 2.2 Exceptions & Options Reference

SC Understanding Exceptions | Options
2.5.8 Target Size (Minimum) Understanding 2.5.8 Inline targets and essential targets are exempt. | Increase spacing between targets; enlarge hit areas; provide equivalent controls.
2.4.7 Focus Visible Understanding 2.4.7 None. UA default focus indicators may suffice if visible. | Provide custom focus styling with contrast/shape/outline.
3.3.8 Redundant Entry Understanding 3.3.8 Users don’t need to re-enter previously provided info unless essential. Autofill/copy permitted. | Support autofill, copy-paste, and prefilled fields.
3.2.6 Consistent Help Understanding 3.2.6 Not required if help is inappropriate (e.g., during an exam). | Provide consistent placement of help links, chat, contact info, or help text.
2.5.7 Dragging Movements Understanding 2.5.7 Dragging is allowed if an alternative input method is provided. | Provide click/tap alternatives for drag actions.
3.3.7 Accessible Authentication (Minimum) Understanding 3.3.7 Cognitive function tests exempt if an alternative (autofill, biometrics, copy-paste) is available. | Allow password managers, biometric login, copy-paste support.
3.3.9 Accessible Authentication (Enhanced) Understanding 3.3.9 Similar exemptions as 3.3.7, but stricter: no reliance on cognitive tests at all. | Stronger use of autofill, password managers, or biometrics.
2.4.13 Focus Appearance (Minimum) Understanding 2.4.13 None. Must meet visibility requirements. | Options include outline, color contrast + thickness, or shape change.

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This is the shortened reference table with just the new or exception-heavy 2.2 SCs. If you want, I can expand it to include all WCAG 2.2 additions (e.g., 2.4.11 Focus Not Obscured, 2.4.12 Focus Not Obscured (Enhanced), etc.) with the same structure.