What it does
USWDS is an open-source design system for U.S. federal websites. It provides components, task patterns, design tokens and templates with UX and implementation guidance. Downloads and reference pages are available without an account; included fonts and other third-party assets retain their own open licences.
USWDS is particularly relevant to form-heavy public services. Its patterns cover creating a profile, completing a complex form and selecting a language. Components include date pickers, validation, step indicators and language selectors, with guidance on how to combine them.
The developer route has three phases: Install, Compile and Customize. It recommends Node.js and npm, then compiling Sass and adjusting the components and tokens for the project. A direct-download route is also available. Templates include authentication, landing and form pages.
Cost and reuse
The main project is in the public domain, with a worldwide CC0 dedication. Fonts, Material icons and some supporting files use separate SIL Open Font, Apache or MIT licences, so retain the applicable notices. The grant does not include GSA trademark rights. USWDS supports major modern browsers and no longer supports Internet Explorer 11.
Strengths
- Form patterns connect individual controls to complete tasks
- Ready-made templates cover authentication and form pages
- Developers can install through npm or download the files directly
Watch out for
- Internet Explorer 11 is no longer supported
- Bundled third-party fonts and icons have their own licence terms
Best for
- Teams designing U.S. federal and similar public-service interfaces
Sources
- U.S. Web Design System (Oct 27, 2026)
- USWDS getting started for developers (Oct 27, 2026)
- USWDS licences and public-domain dedication (Oct 27, 2026)