Theme Check is a free WordPress plugin developed to test if a theme complies with current WordPress review standards. You can use it to run the same testing tools that WordPress.org uses to review submissions. This plugin will ensure your theme complies with overall WordPress standards and practices.

Theme Review Team developed the plugin to be compatible with WordPress 3.7 and upwards. You can download it free in 15 languages, or try these alternatives: Theme Switcha, Theme Test Drive, and Neilo AB Testing.

Why use a theme checker?

If you’re a developer and want to list your themes in the WordPress plugin directory, you need to make sure that it complies with the WordPress standards and practices. Theme Check helps developers by running the same tools used by WordPress.org to evaluate them.

Remember, the tool isn’t perfect; it aims to help developers test their compliance to see if their WordPress theme is compatible with various sites. 

Bear in mind that the tool focuses on themes used on various sites and determines the lowest capability level. When you check a custom theme, it may flag specific issues acceptable for the site owner. This only means that you can't make it widely available through the WordPress directory. It will still help you to check essential functionalities for your theme. 

Trac formatting

Theme Checker uses trac formatting, which means you need to define specific variables in your wp-config.php file. It uses TC_PRE and TC_POST as a ticket in the header and footer. The code will provide a trac tickbox next to the Check It button.

Check for WordPress compliance

Developers can use the plugin to ensure their themes comply with the WordPress plugin standard. Even if you have a custom theme, it’s still helpful to check if it has the essential functionalities required by WordPress sites. 

You will need to add some coding to your WP configuration file, which will make it challenging for beginners.