Your Guide To The Disney World DAS Pass – Disability Access Service

If you’re planning on visiting the Walt Disney World Resort with some who has additional needs, here’s everything you need to know about the DAS Pass.

Walt Disney World understands the diverse needs of their guests, which is why they’ve created the Disability Access Service (DAS). This innovative tool is specifically designed to enhance the experience for those with disabilities who may struggle with traditional queues. With the DAS, guests can wait in a virtual line instead of a physical one, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable time at the Disney World theme parks. 

How Does Disney’s DAS Work?

The Disability Access Service works by providing eligible guests with a virtual return time for a particular attraction. Here’s how it works:

1. Registration: Guests with disabilities can visit Guest Services at the theme park to request and register for the DAS. The service is available for guests who are unable to wait in conventional queues due to their disability.
2. Grouping: Once registered, the guest’s park ticket or MagicBand will be linked to the DAS. The service is limited to a group of six guests to maintain fairness and accommodate as many individuals with disabilities as possible.
3. Attraction Selection: Guests can use the Walt Disney World app to select an attraction they wish to experience. The app provides detailed information on each attraction, including wait times and accessibility considerations.
4. Virtual Queue: After selecting an attraction, the guest will receive a return time on their app. During the designated time, the guest can enter the attraction through the Lightning Lane entrance or an alternative entrance, bypassing the regular queue.
5. Waiting Time: While the virtual queue allows guests to avoid standing in long lines, there may still be a wait time involved. However, this wait can be spent enjoying other attractions, shopping, or dining without the need to physically wait in line.
6. Repeat Usage: The Disability Access Service can be used throughout the day, allowing guests to experience multiple attractions without unnecessary physical strain.

What Are The Benefits Of The Disability Access Service Pass?

DAS will help guests with disabilities enjoy the attractions across the Walt Disney World Resort. The DAS Pass allows you to:

• Improved Accessibility: The DAS provides an alternative to conventional queues, ensuring that guests with disabilities can experience the attractions without the physical strain of standing in line.
• Flexibility: The virtual queue system allows guests to effectively manage their time and make the most out of their visit to the park. It enables them to explore other areas and attractions while waiting for their turn at an attraction.
• Reduced Stress: Waiting in long queues can be overwhelming and stressful, especially for individuals with disabilities. The DAS helps to alleviate this stress and provides a more enjoyable experience by minimizing wait times.
• Inclusivity: By implementing the DAS, Disney aims to create a more inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the magic of its theme parks. It promotes a sense of belonging and equal access to all guests.

Do I Qualify For DAS?

It’s important to note that mobility issues alone do not automatically qualify for a DAS. The Walt Disney World Resort is designed to be wheelchair and scooter friendly, with accessible entrances, ramps, and designated seating areas for guests with mobility impairments. Therefore, guests with mobility issues can still wait in the physical lines without any major difficulties.

DAS is designed for guests with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in prolonged standing positions or those with sensory disabilities that may be exacerbated by crowded environments and long lines. Examples of such disabilities eligible for DAS may include but are not limited to:

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Down syndrome
• Cerebral palsy
• Developmental delays
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Guests with these disabilities may find it challenging to wait in lines and may require accommodations to ensure they have equal access to the attractions and experiences at Disney parks. DAS allows them to wait in a virtual line, reducing the potential stress and sensory overload that can occur in crowded spaces.

It’s important for guests with disabilities to make use of the appropriate accommodation that suits their needs. Disney’s goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment, where everyone can enjoy the magic of the parks. Therefore, if a guest does not require the DAS service and can comfortably wait in physical lines, it is encouraged to do so, in order to allow those who truly need the service to benefit from it.

Important Disney DAS Pass Considerations

While Disney’s Disability Access Service offers significant benefits, it is important to keep a few considerations in mind:

• Eligibility Criteria: The DAS is specifically designed for guests with disabilities who are unable to wait in conventional queues. Valid documentation may be required to establish eligibility.
• Group Size: The service is limited to a group of six guests per registration. This limitation ensures fairness and facilitates access to the service for as many guests as possible.
• Planning: It is advisable to plan your day at the park in advance, taking advantage of the Disney World app to select and schedule attractions based on their availability and accessibility.
• Respect and Understanding: While using DAS, it is essential to respect and understand the needs of other guests.

How Do I Register For DAS At Disney World?

If you or someone in your family has a disability that makes it challenging to wait in long lines at Disney theme parks, Disney offers a service called the Disability Access Service (DAS) to make your visit more enjoyable. The DAS allows guests with disabilities to schedule return times for attractions, thereby reducing the need to wait in long lines. In this section, we will guide you on how to register for DAS both in person and online, along with the requirements and recommendations for a smooth registration process.

In-person Registration at Guest Relations

You can register for a DAS in person at the Guest Services locations within each of the 4 theme parks or the pop-up locations. To register in person, follow these steps:

1. Visit Guest Services at the entrance of the theme park or at one of the pop-up locations
2. Tell the Cast Member at the counter about your desire to register for DAS.
3. Provide them with the relevant information regarding your disability.
4. The Cast Member will guide you through the registration process and explain how the DAS works.
5. Once the registration is complete, the Cast Member will add DAS to your account

It is important to note that the DAS pass does not give you immediate access to attractions. It will provide you with return times for attractions based on the current standby wait time. When it’s time to experience the attraction, you can return to the designated entrance.

The guest who needs the DAS must be present when you request the pass.

Can I Get DAS In Advance?

You can pre-register to get a DAS pass in advance, but this doesn’t work from the UK or outside of the US.  If you can get onto the US version of the website, you can register for a video chat with a Cast Member.  You can request your DAS pass 30 days or less in advance.

We’ve found it quick and easy setup and use the DAS system inside the park at either Guest Relations or at one of the pop-up gazebos.

Requirements for Disney World DAS Registration

Before requesting DAS, it is essential to ensure that you have met all the necessary requirements. Here are the requirements for DAS registration:

• Valid Theme Park Tickets: Make sure you have purchased valid theme park tickets for the dates you plan to visit.
• My Disney Experience Account: Create a My Disney Experience account if you don’t already have one. This account will be used for DAS registration and managing your park itinerary.
• Linked Family and Friends: Ensure that everyone in your party is linked together in your Disney account.
• Wish List of Pre-selections: Decide which rides or attractions you want to pre-select for return times. You can select up to two rides per day.
• Itinerary with Dining Reservations: Plan your park itinerary in advance, including any dining reservations you may have. This will help you make the most of your DAS return times.

By meeting these requirements, you will be fully prepared for the DAS registration process and maximize the benefits of the service.

Registration Process and Tips

The registration process for DAS is usually very quick.  We’d recommend going as soon as you get into the park. To have a smoother experience, follow these tips:

• Register Early: To avoid long wait times, it is recommended to register for DAS as early as possible.
• Come Prepared: Carry all the necessary documentation and information related to your disability.
• Be Patient: The Cast Members at the Guest Services are there to assist you, but they might have to attend to other guests as well. Be patient throughout the registration process.
• Communicate Any Concerns: If you have any specific concerns or requirements, discuss them with the Cast Member during the registration process.

Remember, the DAS is intended to provide equal opportunities for everyone to enjoy the attractions at Disney theme parks. By following the registration process and requirements, you can make the most of your visit and create lasting memories with your family and friends.

How Do I Book Attractions?

It’s easy to book DAS return times and use the Lightning Lanes.  Here’s how to make a reservation using Disney World’s Disability Access service.

Scan into the Park and Select Your First Attraction

Upon entering the park, the first step is to scan your ticket or MagicBand and make sure to link it with the Walt Disney World app on your mobile device. This app will be your best friend throughout the day as it allows you to conveniently manage your DAS selection.

Once you have scanned into the park, it’s time to select your first ride using the My Disney Experience app. The app provides a list of available rides, along with their wait times.  You can then get a return time.

Continue Selecting Rides Throughout the Day

After enjoying your first ride, you can get another return time and make another DAS booking.  You can only hold one DAS booking at any one time. The app makes it easy to see which rides have available time slots, allowing you to plan your day accordingly. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy the park at your own pace and make the most of your DAS.

Whilst you wait for a ride return time, you’re free to wander round the park, see a show or get a Mickey ice cream.

Some Rides are Eligible for Pre-Selection

It’s important to note that while most rides offer the option to select them in the park, there are some attractions that allow for pre-selection. This means that you can secure a specific time slot for these rides in advance. Pre-selecting rides can help reduce wait times and ensure a smoother experience for individuals with disabilities.

To pre-select rides, simply open the app and navigate to the DAS section. From there, you will be able to browse the list of eligible rides and choose a time slot that works best for you. It’s essential to plan ahead and make these pre-selections to maximize your Disney adventure.

The Disability Pass Can be Used for Pre-Selected Rides

Once you have pre-selected a ride, it’s important to remember that the person with the DAS must ride the attraction. This policy ensures that the DAS is being used by the individual it was intended for and helps maintain fair access for everyone. While friends and family can wait in the regular queue or use Lightning Lane options, the person with the DAS holder must be present to enjoy the pre-selected ride.  The guest with DAS must tap into the Lightning Lane before anyone else in their group.

Certain attractions use a virtual queue.  For these rides, you’ll need to get into the Virtual Queue like everyone else.  When it’s your turn, head to the attraction and let the Cast Member know you have DAS.  They’ll validate your pass and give you access to the Lightning Lane.

Can I Use DAS To Meet Disney Characters?

Selected Disney character meet and greets, guests with the DAS pass can pre-book.  It’s exactly the same as booking an attraction.  Meet and greets include Meet Mickey or Princesses in Magic Kingdom and Red Carpet Stars in Hollywood Studios.

Guests Can Also Purchase Lightning Lane Access

In addition to using DAS, guests have the option to purchase Lightning Lane access for certain rides. Genie+ is Disney’s new paid service that allows you to skip the regular queue and enjoy expedited entry to popular attractions using the Lightning Lane. This can be a great option for guests who want to further enhance their Disney experience and reduce wait times for specific rides.

It’s important to note that Genie+ is a separate service from DAS and requires an additional fee. If you decide to purchase Lightning Lane access, it’s recommended to plan your day accordingly to ensure you can maximize the benefits of both DAS and Lightning Lane.

Using the Disability Access Service in the Disney parks provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to fully experience the magic of Disney. With the convenience of the My Disney Experience app and the flexibility of the DAS, guests with disabilities can navigate the park and enjoy their favourite rides with ease. Whether it’s pre-selecting rides or purchasing Lightning Lane access, Disney strives to ensure that everyone can create cherished memories in the most inclusive way possible.

You can also purchase Genie+ too.  Read our guide about the best rides to use Genie+ with.  If you combine DAS and Genie Plus, you’ll be able to hold 2 or more return times at the same time.

Be Prepared with All Necessary Information During Registration For The Disability Access System

When registering for the DAS program, ensure you have all the necessary information on hand. This may include documentation of your disability or medical conditions that may impact your visit. Being prepared with this information will make the registration process smoother and help cast members better understand your needs.

Call Me Please