Expected 2024 Updates to the DHS Trusted Tester Certification Process

The Trusted Tester Certification program is transitioning from version 5.0 to 5.1.3. This article outlines the key modifications and actions you need to take to stay on track with the certification process.

1. Transition to Version 5.1.3

The DHS Trusted Tester Web Certification Program is evolving to version 5.1.3, incorporating essential updates to the curriculum. These updates reflect advancements in technology and best practices in web accessibility. To keep pace with these improvements, it is essential for all registered participants to complete their classwork by December 31, 2023. This ensures that your progress is seamlessly transitioned to the updated version without any data loss.

2. Recertification is not required for Current Certificate Holders

The good news is that for individuals who have already obtained their Trusted Tester certificates, no recertification is needed due to these updates. Your existing certification and TT number remain valid, and you will have access to the updated guidelines through our online resources. The revised guidelines will be available at Trusted Tester Guidelines once they are posted.

3. Rebranding: OAST is becoming A&LS

The provider for the Trusted Tester Certification Track, the Office of Accessible Systems and Technology (OAST), will undergo a change in nomenclature and will now be known as Accessibility and Language Services (A&LS), aligning with its mission to enhance accessibility across various domains. It is expected that the training portal will undergo rebranding to align with the recent name change, but it will still continue to serve as a comprehensive and user-friendly platform for all your training needs.

Check out my course “Ace Trusted Tester Certification: Expert Tips & Tricks,” in which I explain the certification process in detail, answer FAQs, and provide study templates for exam success.

4. What’s Different in Trusted Tester Version 5.1.3:

Some significant updates and enhancements were made to improve the clarity, thoroughness, and effectiveness of the program. Here are the notable changes and additions in the updated version:

1.Appendix D of the TT Guidelines for ANDI Workarounds:

A new Appendix D has been added to provide possible ANDI (Accessible Name & Description Inspector) workarounds, aiding in better accessibility evaluations.

2. Changes to Conforming Alternate Versions (1.A to 1.C):

Conforming alternate versions must now be clearly identified as such.

Test results in this section will now be marked as FAIL rather than DNA to ensure continued testing progress.

Reference access has been removed from non-conforming versions in section 1.C.

3. Clarifications for Visual Labels (5.A and 5.B):

Clarified that tests 5.A and 5.B specifically pertain to visual labels, providing a clear focus for evaluation.

4. Acceptable Link Context (6.A):

In test 6.A, sentences and list items are now deemed acceptable link context, enhancing the understanding of link evaluations.

5.Meaningful Images Identification (7.A):

Test 7.A now emphasizes the identification of meaningful images, including those conveying mood or tone, enabling assistive technology users to be aware of their presence and location.

6. Exclusion of Menus and Navigational Framework (10.D):

Test 10.D has been updated to exclude menus and navigational frameworks from the evaluation scope.

7.Testing for Color Use (13.A and 13.B):

Test 13.A now emphasizes the need to check if color is the sole visual method used, providing a clear criterion for evaluation.

In test 13.B, color has been categorized as a type of sensory information and cannot be combined with another type of sensory information to pass this test.

8. Modification in Legibility Testing (15.A):

Test 15.A has been refined to exclude testing for overlapping or other illegibility issues, focusing on specific aspects for evaluation.

These updates, along with potential others, aim to refine the accuracy and efficacy of the Trusted Tester Certification process, ensuring a thorough evaluation of web accessibility. They will be integrated into the examination in the coming year, providing an opportunity for reenrollment into the certification track. If you wish to familiarize yourself with the exam in advance, I invite you to explore my dedicated course shedding light on common misconceptions and strategies related to the Trusted Tester certification process. Until next time.