How does a VPAT audit work?

A VPAT audit involves automated and manual testing to identify accessibility gaps, followed by remediation and documentation in a final VPAT report.

What is the difference between a VPAT audit and a VPAT report?

A VPAT audit is the testing process , while a VPAT report is the formal document that records compliance findings and accessibility conformance.

Why is VPAT testing important?

Accurate VPAT testing ensures compliance with accessibility laws, helps businesses avoid legal risks, and improves usability for all users.

How long does a VPAT audit take?

The timeframe depends on the complexity of the product, but most VPAT audits take between one to two weeks to complete.

Where can I get professional VPAT testing?

EqualWeb offers comprehensive VPAT evaluation services , including automated scans, manual testing, and compliance reporting.

VPAT Testing, Audits & Reports: Ensuring Accessibility Compliance

Q: What is VPAT testing?

VPAT testing is the evaluation process that determines if a digital product meets accessibility standards like WCAG, Section 508, and the ADA.

TL;DR - VPAT testing assesses whether digital products comply with accessibility standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the ADA. A VPAT audit helps identify and fix compliance gaps before finalizing an official VPAT report. This guide explains the testing process, audit steps, and compliance requirements.

What is VPAT Testing?

VPAT testing is a structured process designed to evaluate and document a product’s accessibility. It determines whether software, websites, or digital tools meet WCAG, Section 508, and ADA requirements. This evaluation involves both automated and manual testing to identify accessibility barriers and ensure compliance before completing a VPAT report.
Testing typically involves automated scans to detect basic accessibility errors, manual evaluations to assess user experience, and assistive technology testing to ensure compatibility with screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other accessibility tools. Without proper testing, businesses risk producing an inaccurate VPAT report, which could lead to compliance failures.
Read our VPAT Guide

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How to Conduct a VPAT Audit

A VPAT audit is a detailed examination of a product’s accessibility. This process ensures that all required standards are met before completing the final VPAT report. A successful audit follows these key steps:

Preliminary Assessment – The product is reviewed for major accessibility gaps using automated and manual testing tools.
Full Compliance Testing – Experts conduct in-depth testing based on WCAG success criteria and Section 508 guidelines.
Issue Identification & Remediation – Accessibility barriers are documented, and necessary fixes are implemented.
Final Validation & Documentation – The VPAT is finalized, confirming compliance with the applicable standards.

Regular audits help businesses maintain long-term accessibility compliance, ensuring that updates and new features don’t introduce new barriers.
Explore VPAT Compliance & Accessibility

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VPAT Audits vs. VPAT Reports: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the distinction between a VPAT audit and a VPAT report is essential. A VPAT audit is the testing process, where accessibility evaluations are conducted and improvements are made. In contrast, a VPAT report is the formal document that records the findings of the audit.
A VPAT report includes:

A summary of accessibility compliance
Detailed conformance levels for each criterion
Explanations for partial or non-compliance
Recommendations for improving accessibility

Organizations should ensure their VPAT report is accurate and transparent, as misleading information can result in legal risks or loss of contracts.
Learn more about VPAT Versions & ACR

Why VPAT Testing Matters for Compliance

VPAT testing is crucial for businesses that work with government agencies or large enterprises. An inaccurate VPAT can lead to contract rejections, legal consequences, and damage to brand reputation. Regular testing ensures that digital products remain accessible, improving usability for all users while maintaining compliance.
With an increasing focus on digital accessibility, organizations must take VPAT testing seriously. Ensuring compliance not only helps businesses avoid legal issues but also promotes inclusivity and better user experiences.

Where to Get VPAT Testing & Audit Support

Businesses can perform VPAT testing internally or work with accessibility specialists for a more comprehensive evaluation. EqualWeb provides expert VPAT testing and audit services, ensuring that organizations meet all accessibility requirements and generate accurate compliance reports.

Next Steps for VPAT Compliance

If your business requires VPAT testing and audits, the best approach is to undergo a thorough accessibility assessment. EqualWeb provides expert services to help businesses meet compliance requirements and create reliable VPAT reports.

Need a VPAT audit? Contact us for a professional assessment.
Want to test your product’s accessibility? Explore our automated and manual testing solutions.

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VPAT Accessibility Guide