Disney World is changing its policies for guests with disabilities.
Florida theme parks (as well as California theme parks) offer a program called Disability Access Services (DAS) to accommodate guests who have developmental disabilities that prevent them from waiting in long regular lines. The parks are continuing this popular program but are making some adjustments to eligibility, registration procedures, and validity periods to ensure guests receive the accommodations they need.
“Disney is committed to providing amazing experiences for all of our guests, including people with disabilities. That’s why we’re committed to offering a range of innovative support services to help guests with disabilities have a great time when visiting our theme parks,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement.
Most importantly for anyone planning a Disney trip, DAS registration will no longer be available in person at the parks after May 20. Guests can only register via virtual meeting from then on.
Here’s what travelers with disabilities need to know about the changes.
What are Disney World’s Disability Access Services (DAS)?
Disney recognizes that some guests “have developmental disabilities, such as autism, that prevent them from waiting in traditional lines for long periods of time.”
Upon arriving at the park, DAS eligible and registered guests (or their parent or guardian) will receive a return time for the ride or attraction so that instead of waiting in line, they can spend time elsewhere and then come back and wait in person for a shorter wait. They will wait just as long as those in the standby line, or maybe a little longer, but they won’t have to be there physically the whole time.
Return times can be found through the My Disney Experience mobile app or directly with a Cast Member in the Guest Relations or Guest Experience teams. DAS return times are valid until the park or attraction closes for the day.
Only one return time may be active at a time.
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Who is eligible for Disney World DAS?
According to a new description on the website, DAS is intended for guests who have “developmental disabilities, such as autism,” and therefore are unable to wait long periods of time in regular lines.
Some guests with disabilities, such as those in wheelchairs, may have to wait in long queues.
Am I eligible for a Disney Disability Pass?
Disney World doesn’t include a list of eligibility conditions, and they vary from person to person. You must first speak with a specially trained cast member to “determine the appropriate services to support your theme park visit,” which may include DAS.
Previously, these could be done virtually or in person at our Guest Relations locations, but as of May 20th, they will only be virtual. Currently, video chat is only available in English.
DAS is open to the registrant and up to four accompanying persons (or more if there are more than four members of your immediate family who wish to experience the attraction together).
Need accommodations? Travelers with disabilities need this card for accommodations at some theme parks
How is Disney World changing DAS?
DAS has become the most requested service at Disney World, with user numbers far exceeding our intended users, impacting the experience for those who need the facility. To ensure DAS reaches its intended users, please take the following actions as of May 20, 2024:
Guests must register for DAS via virtual video conference, rather than in person at the parks New DAS registrations will be valid for 120 days from the date of registration, double the previous 60 days New registrants who register between now and May 19 will be able to use the service for up to 30 days Guests can only book one active return window at a time, but can have one virtual queue boarding group at a time Disney is increasing the number of specially trained Cast Members to help guests with other access needs find suitable accommodations.
What does Disney consider to be a disability?
Disney recognizes disabilities and access needs of all kinds, even those that are invisible.
DAS is only for people who have difficulty waiting in line and does not cover all disabilities. A Cast Member can help you determine available options via Virtual Chat. Disney also offers the following services:
Service animals are allowed in queues for all attractions, but may not be allowed on some attractions.
Does Disney require proof of disability?
Disney does not require proof of a disability or accessibility need, and that remains true with the new policy.
What if someone lied to get Disney DAS?
Anyone found to have made false statements to obtain a DAS will be permanently banned from Disney World and Disneyland, and any existing passes, tickets and other park services will be confiscated with no refunds, the website states.