Page must use language code

Rule ID Language 1
Definition Page must define the language of its principal content using a valid IANA language code.
Purpose
  • Assistive technologies like screen readers and other speech output technologies need to know the languages represented by the characters in order to speak the text content correctly.
Mappings
  • HTML4 Legacy Techniques (Required)
  • HTML5 and ARIA Techniques (Required)
WCAG Success Criteria

3.1.1 Language of Page (Level A, Primary Success Criterion)

Rule Category Styling/Content
Scope Page
Target Resources HTML element
Techniques
  • Use the lang attribute on the html or xhtml element to define the principal language of the web page.
  • Use the IANA codes to identify the principal language (e.g. en, fr, ...).
Informational Links