Accessibility: QR Codes
QR codes provide a quick and convenient way to access information, but they are not accessible to everyone. Some individuals may be unable to scan a QR code due to a disability, limited technology, poor connectivity or device limitations. Providing an alternative way to access the same information helps ensure equal access and supports inclusive communication.
Accessible QR codes also improve usability for all users by making the code easier to locate, scan and use successfully.
Use accessible QR codes whenever you include a QR code in:
- Flyers, posters, brochures and printed materials.
- Event advertisements and promotional materials.
- Digital documents such as PDFs, presentations or emails.
- Signage and wayfinding materials.
- Marketing and communication materials.
Whenever a QR code is used to provide access to important information, registration forms, websites, menus or services, an alternative access method should also be provided.
Follow these best practices when creating QR codes:
- Use high color contrast between the QR code and its background.
- Make the QR code large enough to be scanned easily from a reasonable distance.
- Provide a short URL near the QR code as an alternative method of access.
- Include brief instructions, such as:
- Scan the QR code or visit: sdsu.edu/example.
- Avoid placing QR codes over busy images, patterns or textured backgrounds that may interfere with scanning.
- Verify the destination content is accessible, including webpages, forms, documents and multimedia linked through the QR code.
- Test the QR code using different devices and scanning applications to ensure it works reliably.
Example
This approach allows users to access the information whether or not they can successfully scan the code.
- Verify the code has 4.5:1 contrast ratio against the background.
- Visit Accessibility: Color Contrast for more information.
- Add descriptive alternate text to the image.
- Visit Accessibility: Alternative Text for more information.
- Insert a short link near the code as an alternative method of access.
- Visit Accessibility: Links for more information.