508 Standards and Exceptions Chart & Examples

When procuring information and communication technology (ICT), ensure your purchases conform to the Revised 508 Standards by clearly communicating the standards and exceptions that apply to each item in your solicitation. ICT includes software, hardware, electronic content, support documentation & services.

Use the template below, or develop your own format, when preparing a solicitation, statement of work, or other procurement document.

Applicable 508 Standards and Exceptions Chart - Template (MS-Word, September 2017)

Examples

The following examples show how to complete the chart for different ICT items.

Website
Software
Kiosk (complex)

Website Example
Exceptions, Functional Performance Criteria and Technical Requirements	What applies?	What functionality is covered?
Exceptions	No exceptions apply	All functionality
Chapter 3: Functional Performance Criteria	All apply	All functionality
WCAG 2.0 Level A and AA Guidelines	All apply	All functionality
Chapter 4: Hardware Requirements	Does not apply	All functionality
Chapter 5: Software Requirements	Does not apply	All functionality
Chapter 6: Support Services and Documentation Requirements	All apply	All functionality

Software Example
Exceptions, Functional Performance Criteria and Technical Requirements	What applies?	What functionality is covered?
Exceptions	No exceptions apply	All functionality
Chapter 3: Functional Performance Criteria	All apply	All functionality
WCAG 2.0 Level A and AA Guidelines	All apply except: 2.4.1 Bypass Blocks 2.4.5 Multiple Ways 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation 3.2.4 Consistent Identification	All functionality
Chapter 4: Hardware Requirements	Does not apply	All functionality
Chapter 5: Software Requirements	All apply except: 504 Authoring Tools	All functionality
Chapter 6: Support Services and Documentation Requirements	All apply	All functionality

Kiosk (Complex) Example
Exceptions, Functional Performance Criteria and Technical Requirements	What applies?	What functionality is covered?
Exceptions	No exceptions apply	All functionality
Chapter 3: Functional Performance Criteria	All apply	All functionality
WCAG 2.0 Level A and AA Guidelines	All apply	Kiosk Web Based Software Interface
Chapter 4: Hardware Requirements	402 Closed Functionality 408 Display Screens 404 Preservation of Information provided for accessibility 405 Privacy 406 Standard Connections 407 Operable Parts 409 Status Indicators 410 Color Coding 411 Audible Signals	All functionality
Chapter 5: Software Requirements	502 Interoperability with Assistive Technology 503 Application	Kiosk Web Based Software Interface
Chapter 6: Support Services and Documentation Requirements	All apply	All functionality

See Request Accessibility Information from Vendors and Contractors to learn more about standards and exceptions for ICT items.

These best practices were developed by the U.S. Federal Government Revised 508 Standards Transition Workgroup. Members include the U.S. Federal CIO Council Accessibility Community of Practice, the U.S. Access Board, and the General Services Administration.

Reviewed/Updated: May 2018