Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act mandates accessibility of digital content. Therefore, Section 508 compliance testing becomes a crucial practice for government contractors of websites, apps or digital documents. Non-compliance can result in lost contracts with federal agencies. You may also face legal action or a loss of reputation.

How do you confirm that your product meets 508 compliance standards?

This guide is for government contractors seeking to win and retain contracts with federal agencies.

What Is 508 Compliance Testing?

508 compliance testing is the process of verifying digital content to ensure it meets accessibility standards. It involves automated scans and manual audits to make usable digital products.

The goal of testing is to remove accessibility barriers for disabled users. This means that screen reader users or keyboard only users can still access your Section 508 compliant content.

Why Government Contractors Must Take It Seriously

Accessibility 508 is not an option when bidding on or delivering federal contracts. Agencies must understand that:

No compliance = No contract.
Non-compliance = Risk of audits and penalties.
Accessibility = Competitive advantage.

Agencies are increasingly selecting vendors based on their accessibility practices. Contractors who embed 508 testing into their workflows have a higher chance of securing repeat work.

Step-by-Step 508 Compliance Testing Process

There are seven key steps to effective 508 compliance testing.

Step 1: Learn the 508 Compliance Requirements

Do not start testing unless you understand the norms of accessibility first. Section 508 aligns the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines WCAG 2.0. These are technical standards that cover:

Perceivable content means alt text, captions, contrast rules
Operable navigation like keyboard use and skip links.
Understandable content means readable language and error messages.
Robust code that allows assistive tech compatibility.

Pro tip: Federal agencies use the WCAG 2.0 framework to conduct 508 compliance evaluations. This is your baseline standard when testing.

Step 2: Use Automated Testing Tools First

Start with automated tools to quickly flag obvious issues. These tools help spot missing image alt text, low color contrast, improper heading structure or form inaccessibility.

But remember, automated tests only catch about 30–40% of issues. So ‘tools-only’ approach won’t be the safe choice.

Step 3: Conduct Manual Testing

Now, do what the machines can’t. Manual testing is the key step as it catches inconsistencies often missed by tools, such as:

HTML landmarks checking
Verifying keyboard-only function
Testing of focus indicator visibility
Form labels and error messages review
Captions or transcripts for all media content

Tip: Try navigating your site with only a keyboard. If you get stuck, a screen reader user will do so.

Step 4: Test with Assistive Technologies

You need to stimulate real user conditions. So use the same tools your users might rely on. NVDA for Windows, JAWS also for Windows, VoiceOver for Mac and TalkBack for Android are best for accessibility audits.

Testing with screen readers confirms that content is announced correctly and ready for 508 compliance certification process. It also reveals hidden barriers that neither automation nor manual testing can catch.

Step 5: Document Your Findings

Although there is no formal 508 compliance certification but proper documentation is the key to secure government contracts.

A VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template) documents your 508 compliance claims. It should include a summary of issues, the WCAG criteria affected and the tools and methods used during testing. This report helps federal buyers evaluate the accessibility of your product.

Step 6: Remediate and Re-Test

Fix the issues found during testing, then repeat the process. When done, go for another round of automated scans. Then you should re-do manual checks and assistive tech checks.

Testing after remediation makes your digital product truly usable.

Step 7: Consult With Accessibility Experts (Optional But Smart)

508 compliance testing can be complex if your team lacks in-house accessibility skills.

Accessibility services from trusted partners like ADACP can save you from the risk of lawsuits. Their team of certified testers helps government contractors in multiple ways.

Conduct full compliance audits
Build VPAT documentation
508 compliance guidelines training
Get 508-compliant faster

Working with experts is, of course, time-saving, and it also results in your projects aligned with current accessibility standards.

Extra Tips for Government Contractors

Start thinking about accessibility right from the beginning of your project. Don’t treat it as an afterthought. Give your developers, designers and content writers some training in digital accessibility. They should know what to look out for.

Stick to a consistent Section 508 checklist every time you launch something new. Do not wait for VPAT reporting untill contract deadline is breathing down your neck. Preparing early gives you time to fix issues and present a stronger case to your clients.

Want Help Getting Compliant?

If you’re unsure where to begin or want to ensure your testing process meets federal expectations, schedule a free consultation with ADACP. They have helped numerous contractors win and keep government projects through effective accessibility support.

Final Thoughts

Section 508 compliance testing prepares you to avoid lawsuits and meet compliance check boxes. It is a non-negotiable requirement for government contractors.

So follow this step by step process and consult experts before it is too late. You can make your digital product accessible to all users and position your company as a preferred Section 508 compliant vendor for federal agencies.

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