Accessibility Guide: PDF or Portable Document Format

PDF stands for Portable Document Format and was designed to be a universal document format that could be read by any computer or operating system, whether it is an Apple or Windows based computer. Many people like the way that PDFs provide information that cannot be (easily) changed or edited. However this can also make them inaccessible to some individuals using assistive technology. This is especially true when a pdf is made of a scanned document.

Maine Web Accessibility Policy requires an alternative accessible format for any PDF documents on State websites or an explanation on how to access alternative versions.

Though some PDFs can be made accessible, an alternative format should always be provided or made available.

More Information

• Alternative Format
• Word Format

References / More information:

• PDF and Accessibility; Maine Webmaster's Resource Center
• Portable Document Format (PDF) Files and Accessibility Maine CITE
• Portable Document Format (PDF) Files and Accessibility -Part II Maine CITE