ARIA Dialog and Alertdialog Must Have an Accessible Name

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Quick Reference

Element Code: AC-023

Issue: Modal dialogs lack accessible names

Impact: Screen readers cannot announce what the dialog is about

Fix: Add aria-label or aria-labelledby to dialog elements

Detection: axe DevTools, screen reader testing

What Is This Issue?

Modal dialogs (role="dialog" or role="alertdialog") need accessible names so screen readers can announce them when they open. Without a name, users may not understand the dialog purpose.

Why This Matters for Your Website

Modals are common UI patterns for forms, confirmations, and alerts. Unlabeled dialogs create confusion and can prevent task completion.

How to Fix This Issue

  1. Use aria-labelledby: Reference the dialog heading
  2. Or aria-label: If no visible heading exists
  3. Manage focus: Move focus into dialog when opened

Tools for Detection

  • axe DevTools: Flags unlabeled dialogs

TL;DR (The Simple Version)

Your modal dialogs have no names. Use aria-labelledby to connect the dialog to its heading, or add aria-label if there is no visible title.

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