These universal design features address the elements of entrances and the areas immediately outside of a doorway.
| 3.1 | Entrance has no steps. | Why? |
| 3.2 | Doorway width no less than 36 inches. | Why? |
| 3.3 | Threshold height no more than 0.5 inches. | Why? |
| 3.4 | Door hardware operable with one hand and does not require pinching or grasping to use (e.g., lever handle, electronic lock). | Why? |
| 3.5 | Landing area no less than 5×5 feet. | Why? |
| 3.6 | Landing area covered from weather. | Why? |
| 3.7 | Landing area slopes no more than 1:50 (1.15ยบ) in any direction. | Why? |
| 3.8 | Outside shelf or bench by the door. | Why? |
| 3.9 | Lighting clearly illuminates door handle and keyhole. | Why? |
| 3.10 | Lighting activated by a timer or motion sensors. | Why? |
| 3.11 | House/unit numbers are high contrast and easy to see at all times. | Why? |