A form field should not have multiple label elements

Rule form-field-multiple-labels · Forms · impact moderate · Static + live

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Why it matters#

When several elements point at the same control, browsers and screen readers disagree on which one wins, so the announced name is unpredictable.

How to fix#

Use a single per control; move supplementary text to aria-describedby.

Example#

<label for="q">A</label><label for="q">B</label><input id="q">

<label for="q">Search</label><input id="q" aria-describedby="hint"><span id="hint">B</span>

WCAG success criteria#

3.3.2 Labels or Instructions — Level A#

Inputs need labels or instructions so users know what to enter.

Understanding 3.3.2

Standards#

This rule contributes to the following standards:

WCAG A EN 301 549 Trusted Tester

References#

• W3C — Form Labels