ADA and Accessibility Requirements for Certification Exams

Nov, 12 2025

If you’re taking a certification exam, you deserve a fair shot. That’s not just a nice idea-it’s the law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that certification exams be accessible to everyone, no matter their disability. But what does that actually mean in practice? How do test providers make sure their exams meet these rules? And what can you do if you need extra help to show what you know?

What ADA Compliance Means for Certification Exams

The ADA doesn’t just apply to buildings and sidewalks. It covers everything from job interviews to professional certification tests. If a certification exam is used to determine whether someone can work in a field-like nursing, IT, accounting, or teaching-it must be accessible. That means the test can’t be a barrier to entry just because someone has a visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive disability.

Test providers can’t say, "We’ve always done it this way." They have to adapt. That includes making sure digital exams work with screen readers, offering extended time for people with learning disabilities, providing large-print or braille versions, and allowing assistive technologies like speech-to-text software. If you’re taking an exam online, the platform must be compatible with common accessibility tools. If it’s a paper-based test, they must provide the same content in an accessible format.

It’s not about giving someone an advantage. It’s about removing unfair obstacles. Someone with dyslexia shouldn’t fail because they can’t read dense text quickly. Someone who is blind shouldn’t be stuck because the exam uses images without alt text. The goal is to measure knowledge, not ability to navigate inaccessible formats.

How WCAG Standards Shape Exam Design

Most certification exams that are delivered digitally follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. These aren’t suggestions-they’re the industry standard for digital accessibility. If your exam platform doesn’t meet WCAG 2.1 AA, it’s likely violating ADA requirements.

Here’s what WCAG 2.1 AA actually means for your exam:

All text has sufficient contrast against its background-no light gray on white.
Every image, chart, or diagram has a text alternative (alt text) that describes its purpose.
Navigation works with a keyboard alone-no mouse required.
Video content includes captions and audio descriptions.
Forms and interactive elements are labeled clearly for screen readers.
There are no time limits unless absolutely necessary, and if there are, you can request an extension.

Many exam vendors still get this wrong. They use flashy animations that flash too fast, or they embed PDFs that aren’t tagged properly. That’s not just bad design-it’s illegal. The U.S. Department of Justice has fined multiple testing companies for failing to meet these standards. In 2023, a major certification body settled a lawsuit after failing to provide accessible practice tests for people with color blindness.

Requesting Accommodations: A Step-by-Step Guide

You don’t have to guess what accommodations you’re entitled to. The process is straightforward, but you need to act early.

Identify your need. Are you blind? Have a learning disability? Use a wheelchair? Know exactly what you need to take the test fairly-extra time, screen reader compatibility, a quiet room, etc.
Check the exam provider’s website. Most certification bodies have an accessibility or accommodations page. Look for terms like "Request Accommodations," "Disability Services," or "ADA Compliance."
Submit documentation. You’ll usually need a letter from a qualified professional-doctor, psychologist, audiologist, etc.-that confirms your disability and recommends specific accommodations. Generic letters saying "this person has a disability" won’t cut it. The letter must link your condition to the requested adjustment.
Apply early. Don’t wait until the day before your exam. Processing can take 2-6 weeks. Some providers require 30 days’ notice.
Follow up. If you don’t hear back within 10 business days, call or email. Keep records of all communication.

Pro tip: If you’re taking a test through Pearson VUE, Prometric, or Certiport, they all have standardized accommodation request forms. You can often upload documents directly through their portals.

Candidate submitting accommodation request as WCAG compliance icons fly out from a digital portal.

Common Accommodations You Can Request

Not every accommodation is automatic. But most are granted if you provide proper documentation. Here are the most common ones:

Extended time: 50% or 100% extra time is standard for learning disabilities, ADHD, or processing disorders.
Screen reader access: Compatible with JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver. The exam must not rely on visual cues alone.
Large print or braille: Available for print exams. Digital versions should allow text resizing up to 200%.
Alternative formats: Audio versions of written exams, or questions read aloud by a proctor.
Breaks: Extra or unscheduled breaks for medical conditions, fatigue, or mobility needs.
Separate testing room: For people sensitive to noise, light, or distractions.
Assistive technology: Speech-to-text software, sip-and-puff devices, or adaptive keyboards.

Some accommodations are rarely granted unless justified. For example, having someone else take the exam for you? Never allowed. Having someone read the questions aloud? Only if you’re blind and can’t use a screen reader. The accommodation must level the playing field-not change what’s being tested.

What Happens If Your Request Is Denied?

Denials happen. Sometimes it’s because documentation is incomplete. Sometimes it’s because the provider doesn’t know the law. Either way, you have rights.

First, ask for a written explanation. They must provide one. Then, review it. If the reason is vague-like "not supported by policy"-that’s a red flag. The ADA doesn’t allow blanket policies that ignore individual needs.

Next, file a formal appeal. Most certification providers have an appeals process. If that fails, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice’s ADA website. You can also contact the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), a nonprofit that helps people fight discrimination in testing.

In 2024, a candidate successfully sued a cybersecurity certification body after they denied her request for a screen reader. The court ruled that the exam’s reliance on color-coded diagrams violated ADA requirements. She got her exam retaken with proper accommodations-and the provider had to overhaul its entire platform.

What Providers Must Do (And Often Don’t)

Test providers aren’t just passive gatekeepers. They’re required to actively ensure accessibility. That means:

Testing their platforms with real users who have disabilities-not just automated tools.
Training proctors on how to handle accommodations without stigma or confusion.
Offering accessible sample exams so candidates can practice with the same tools they’ll use on test day.
Providing clear, accessible instructions on how to request help.

Too many providers treat accessibility as an afterthought. They add alt text only when forced by a lawsuit. They don’t train staff. They don’t test with assistive tech. That’s not just unethical-it’s risky. The number of ADA complaints against testing companies rose 42% between 2022 and 2024.

Look for providers who proudly list their accessibility features. If they don’t mention it at all, assume they’re not compliant. Don’t take the test until you’ve confirmed they can meet your needs.

Courtroom scene with broken inaccessible exam tablet and ADA statute shining over empowered test-takers.

Why This Matters Beyond the Exam

Accessibility in certification exams isn’t just about fairness. It’s about equity in the workforce. If a person with a disability can’t get certified, they can’t get hired. That’s discrimination in action.

Companies that hire certified professionals are also affected. If the certification body doesn’t follow ADA rules, they’re potentially hiring from a biased pool. That means they miss out on talented people who just needed the right tools to prove their skills.

And it’s not just legal risk. Organizations that prioritize accessibility see higher exam pass rates, better candidate satisfaction, and stronger reputations. In 2023, a major IT certification provider saw a 27% increase in test-taker satisfaction after rolling out full WCAG compliance.

Accessibility isn’t a cost. It’s an investment in quality, diversity, and integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor’s note to request accommodations for a certification exam?

Yes, most providers require documentation from a qualified professional-like a doctor, psychologist, or licensed therapist-that confirms your disability and recommends specific accommodations. Generic letters won’t be accepted. The documentation should explain how your condition affects your ability to take the test under standard conditions.

Can I get extra time if I have anxiety or ADHD?

Yes. Both anxiety disorders and ADHD are recognized under the ADA as disabilities that may affect test performance. You’ll need documentation showing how your condition impacts your ability to focus, process information, or complete tasks within standard time limits. Extended time is one of the most commonly approved accommodations for these conditions.

Are all online certification exams accessible by default?

No. Just because an exam is online doesn’t mean it’s accessible. Many platforms still use images without alt text, lack keyboard navigation, or have poor color contrast. Always check the provider’s accessibility statement before registering. If they don’t have one, contact them directly to ask about WCAG compliance and assistive tech support.

Can I bring my own assistive technology to the exam?

Sometimes, but it depends on the provider. Many allow you to use your own screen reader or speech-to-text software if it’s pre-approved. Others require you to use their system’s built-in tools. Always request approval in advance and test your setup during any available practice sessions. Never assume your device will work without confirmation.

What if I don’t want to disclose my disability?

You’re not required to disclose your disability if you don’t need accommodations. But if you need adjustments to take the exam fairly, you must request them through the official process. You don’t have to share your diagnosis publicly-just provide enough documentation to support your accommodation request. Your privacy is protected under ADA guidelines.

Next Steps

If you’re preparing for a certification exam and think you might need accommodations, start now. Don’t wait until your test date is looming. Reach out to the provider’s accessibility team. Ask for their accommodation request form. Gather your documentation. Test the platform with your assistive tools.

If you’re a training provider or employer helping others get certified, make sure your resources include accessibility information. Don’t assume everyone knows their rights. Share the link to the provider’s accommodations page. Offer to help someone draft their request letter. Accessibility isn’t just a legal requirement-it’s a community responsibility.

Everyone deserves a fair chance to prove their skills. The law says so. The right thing to do says so too. Make sure your certification journey doesn’t get derailed by avoidable barriers.