The HTML readonly attribute
Quick answer
The HTML readonly attribute makes the value uneditable while the control remains focusable and is still submitted. It is used on the <input> and <textarea> elements.
Overview
The readonly attribute makes the value uneditable while the control remains focusable and is still submitted. It applies to the <input> and <textarea> elements.
Unlike disabled, a readonly field can still be focused and copied, and its value is submitted with the form.
Syntax
<input value="Fixed" readonly>Values
| Value |
|---|
| A boolean attribute — present or absent. |
Example
<input value="Read-only value" readonly style="padding:8px;width:100%;">Best practices
- Give every control a <label> so it has an accessible name.
- Treat client-side constraints as a convenience — always validate again on the server, since they can be bypassed.
- Choose the most specific input type so users get the right on-screen keyboard and built-in checks.
- Keep the submitted name and value meaningful for whatever processes the form.
Frequently asked questions
What does the readonly attribute do?
Makes a field read-only.
Are HTML form attributes enough for validation?
They give instant feedback, but client-side checks can be bypassed, so always validate on the server too.
Do form controls still need a label?
Yes. Every control needs a <label> for an accessible name, whatever attributes you set.
Which elements use the readonly attribute?
It is an element-specific attribute, used on form controls such as <input>, <select> and <textarea>.