HTML readonly Attribute
Definition and Usage
The readonly attribute is a boolean attribute.
When present, it specifies that an input field or textarea is read-only.
A read-only field cannot be modified (however, a user can tab to it, highlight it, and copy the text from it).
The readonly attribute can be set to keep a user from changing the value until some other conditions have been met (like selecting a checkbox, etc.). Then, a JavaScript can remove the readonly value, and make the input field editable.
Applies to
The readonly attribute can be used on the following elements:
| Elements | Attribute |
|---|---|
| <input> | readonly |
| <textarea> | readonly |
Examples
Input Example
An HTML form with a read-only input field:
<form
action="/action_page.php">
Country:
<input type="text" name="country" value="Norway" readonly><br>
<input type="submit" value="Submit">
</form>
Try it Yourself »
Textarea Example
A read-only text area:
<textarea readonly>
At w3schools.com you will learn how to make a website. We offer free tutorials in all web development technologies.
</textarea>
Try it Yourself »
Browser Support
The readonly attribute has the following browser support for each element:
| Element | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| input | 1.0 | 6.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
| textarea | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
