PDF Remediation Accessibility Checklist

Step 1: Prep

  • Open in Acrobat Pro
  • Run Accessibility Checker
  • Check if tags exist

Step 2: Text Layer

  • Run OCR if scanned
  • Confirm text is selectable/searchable

Step 3: Structure

  • Autotag, then fix manually
  • Apply correct heading levels
  • Tag paragraphs, lists, and tables properly

Step 4: Reading Order

  • Use Reading Order Tool
  • Ensure logical flow (L to R, top to bottom)
  • Mark decorative elements as artifacts

Step 5: Images & Links

  • Add alt text to meaningful images
  • Mark decorative images as artifacts
  • Ensure links are descriptive and tagged

Step 6: Forms (if present)

  • Add tooltips/labels
  • Set tab order

Step 7: Metadata

  • Set document language
  • Add descriptive title
  • Confirm security allows assistive tech

Step 8: Final Check

  • Run Accessibility Checker again
  • Test with a screen reader