Wheelchair Ramp Length Calculator
Ramp length from rise using ADA slope ratios.
Enter your values
Enter the total rise in in.
Choose one of: 1:12 (ADA standard), 1:16 (gentler), 1:20 (residential minimum slope).
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.
- Minimum ramp length
- 24 ft
- Slope angle
- 4.76°
- Intermediate landings needed (every 30 ft max)
- 0
Quick answer
ADA guidance requires at least 12 inches of ramp length for every 1 inch of rise, giving a maximum slope of about 4.8 degrees.
length = rise x slope ratio
At a glance
| What it does | Ramp length from rise using ADA slope ratios. |
|---|---|
| Category | Home & DIY |
| Inputs needed | Total rise, Slope ratio |
| Main output | Minimum ramp length |
| Formula | length = rise x slope ratio |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Wheelchair Ramp Length Calculator
- 1Measure the total rise the ramp needs to overcome.
- 2Use a 1:12 slope ratio for ADA-compliant ramps, or gentler ratios for more comfort.
- 3Add a level landing at least every 30 feet of ramp run, and at top and bottom.
Inputs explained
- Total rise(in)
- Enter the total rise in in.
- Slope ratio
- Choose one of: 1:12 (ADA standard), 1:16 (gentler), 1:20 (residential minimum slope).
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Total rise24 in
- Slope ratio1:12 (ADA standard)
Results
- Minimum ramp length24 ft
- Slope angle4.76°
- Intermediate landings needed (every 30 ft max)0
Frequently asked questions
What is the max rise between landings?
ADA limits a single ramp run to 30 inches of rise before requiring a landing.
Can a home ramp be steeper than 1:12?
Some residential exceptions allow steeper slopes for very limited rise, but 1:12 remains the safest standard.
What do I need to enter into the Wheelchair Ramp Length Calculator?
Just 2 values: total rise, slope ratio. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.
How does the Wheelchair Ramp Length Calculator work out the answer?
ADA guidance requires at least 12 inches of ramp length for every 1 inch of rise, giving a maximum slope of about 4.8 degrees. It applies the formula length = rise x slope ratio and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Wheelchair Ramp Length Calculator free, and do I need an account?
It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.