This page is especially designed to help blind and visually impaired visitors understand ADA sign guidelines. Links will take you to special pages that will describe some of the things you need to know to evaluate ADA signs.
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| The ADA requires accessible signs |
Signs that identify permanent rooms and spaces must have raised, tactile letters and numbers, and be translated into Grade 2 Braille. The Department of Justice particularly mentions numbered rooms, restrooms and exits as requiring tactile signs.
Rules for tactile signs
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Signs that give directions on how to get around the building, or information about permanent features of the building, do not need to be tactile. They do, however, have to follow rules that should make it possible for legally blind with usable vision or severely visually impaired people to read many of them.
Rules for visual signs
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Pictograms, or pictorial symbols are often used on signs. There are a few rules governing the use of pictograms.
Pictogram rules
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Four special pictograms, called symbols of accessibility, are required by the ADA to be used on signs under certain circumstances.
Symbols of Accessibility
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| What is a typeface and why is it important? |
People who have never seen a sign may wonder why it matters what typestyle is used. After all, isn't one letter B like the next one? If one typestyle has an R that is easier to read, and the other has a better M, why not just use the best letters from each?
Some answers about type
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| What You Can Expect |
| When you enter a public building, you have a right to expect to be able to find your way around.
Here are some things to look for
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