Site search

Status

Standard

Public-facing websites must contain a search function that allows users to easily search content intended for public use.

Why

Search is a basic and universal part of using the internet, and search functionality is an expected feature for websites and digital services.

Applies to

Executive branch agency websites and digital services that are intended for use by the public

Exemptions

This standard is not practicable in the following circumstances:

• Digital products with minimal content that can easily be navigated without a search function
• Digital products whose sole purpose is to provide a lookup function (e.g., https://data.census.gov/, https://889.smartpay.gsa.gov/, https://www.usaspending.gov/)
• Narrowly-focused applications that require user input in which a site search would take the user away from the application (e.g., job application, benefit enrollment)

Acceptance criteria

These conditions must be met to comply with this standard.

• Every website or digital service, except for the exemptions listed above, must include a search function.
• On a desktop view, the search function must be available from the upper right corner of every page.
• The search function must be in the same place on every page of your site.
• A magnifying glass icon must be used to identify the search function. The icon can be used on its own or with the word “Search.”

How to implement

These are tips to help you implement this standard.

• Use Search.gov for on-site search solutions, or make sure your site can be indexed by Search.gov.
• On a mobile view, the search function should be outside of the mobile menu or at the top of the mobile menu.
• The search function should be a site-wide global search. When appropriate for your users, the search feature could search subsets of content (e.g., help, blog, videos).

NOTE: The U.S. Web Design System (USWDS) search component does not currently align with all of the relevant acceptance criteria for this draft standard. USWDS will update its search component before this standard moves to the pending phase. USWDS and the federal website standards will always aim to be in alignment.

Read more

• Get started with Search.gov
• An introduction to search from Digital.gov
• Site searches (WebAim.org)
• OMB memo on Delivering a Digital-First Public Experience: Information and services that are discoverable and optimized for search

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