What is Grade 2 Braille and why is it required on ADA signs?
Quick Answer
Grade 2 Braille is a contracted form of Braille that uses abbreviations and contractions for common letter combinations. ADA requires Grade 2 Braille on all tactile signs because it is the standard literacy form used by Braille readers.
Content Verification
Sources:
Code Reference
ADA 703.3
ADA 2010 Standards Section 703.3
Detailed Explanation
Grade 2 Braille is the standard form of Braille literacy in the United States:
1. **Grade 1 vs Grade 2**: Grade 1 Braille is a letter-for-letter transcription. Grade 2 uses contractions (e.g., "the" becomes a single character, "ing" becomes one symbol) making it faster to read.
2. **ADA Requirement**: The ADA mandates Grade 2 Braille on all tactile signs because Grade 2 is what Braille-literate individuals learn and use daily.
3. **Braille Specifications**: - Dot diameter: 0.059" to 0.063" (1.5mm to 1.6mm) - Dot height: 0.025" minimum (0.6mm) - Dot spacing (center to center, same cell): 0.090" to 0.100" - Cell spacing (center to center, adjacent cells): 0.241" to 0.300"
4. **California Stricter Spacing**: California Title 24 requires tighter tolerances with 0.1" (1/10 inch) Braille spacing, stricter than federal ADA.
Common Mistakes
- ×Using Grade 1 Braille instead of Grade 2
- ×Incorrect dot height (too flat or too raised)
- ×Improper spacing between cells
- ×Braille not matching tactile text exactly
- ×Placing Braille in the wrong location relative to tactile text
How to Verify Compliance
- ✓Confirm the Braille uses contractions (Grade 2)
- ✓Use a Braille gauge to verify dot dimensions
- ✓Check that Braille is positioned below corresponding tactile text
- ✓Verify Braille reads the same content as the raised text
Official Code Text
"Braille shall be contracted (Grade 2) and shall comply with the Braille dimensions and capitalization provisions specified in ICC A117.1."
How to Cite This Page
When referencing this information:
SpecCodes.com "What is Grade 2 Braille and why is it required on ADA signs?" - Verified 2026-01-30Compliant Products
To meet these requirements, compliant signage typically includes:
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Expert Verification
Compliance Information Verified
2026-01-30
CBC 2025 / ADA 2010
Effective January 1, 2026
California Building Standards Commission
Compliance Verification Notice
This information is provided for general reference purposes only. Local inspectors and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) have final authority over code interpretation and enforcement.
Before ordering signage, SpecCodes recommends:
- Contacting your local Building Department
- Reviewing current permit requirements for your project
- Confirming any local code amendments that may apply
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