In addition to the sheer size and daily attendance at Disney World, it’s no secret that standby lines can be notoriously long. The Disability Access Service (DAS) program is available to those who can’t tolerate extended waits due to a disability.
If you or someone in your group is interested in a DAS pass, here’s a breakdown of Disney DAS pass qualifications and how the DAS program works.
What is the DAS pass at Disney World?
Disney World’s DAS program is a free service that allows guests who can’t tolerate long wait times to bypass the conventional standby line. Instead, they can use DAS to schedule a same-day return time to access the attraction.
The DAS pass is valid for up to 60 days, and all members of a DAS-eligible guest’s party can also receive a DAS pass.
How does Disney World DAS work?
After you’ve been issued a DAS pass, you can schedule your first return time visit to an attraction.
The pass doesn’t give you immediate access to the attraction. Instead, you’ll receive a return time when you can board, equivalent to the existing standby wait time.
For example, if you request a return time for Haunted Mansion, and the standby wait time is 55 minutes, the earliest you can return is 55 minutes.
DAS Advance
Guests who register for DAS ahead of their trip can use a feature called DAS Advance. It offers a one-hour return window for two experiences planned in advance.
DAS Advance return windows can be reserved starting 30 days before your visit date and must be selected at least two days ahead.
Selecting and redeeming a same-day DAS return time
You can secure a return time with guest relations, but the most convenient way to request DAS return times is through the My Disney Experience app. Only one active return time is offered at a time.
Any party member can request a return time, but to redeem it, the guest utilizing DAS must ride the attraction. When it’s time to return to your selected attraction, go to the Lightning Lane or front of the attraction, and the cast member will scan your pass.
There isn’t a limited window for using the return time. It stays valid until the park closes, but you can only schedule another return time once you redeem the active one.
What disabilities qualify for DAS at Disney World?
Disney World doesn’t provide a publicized list of disabilities that are eligible for its DAS program.
Instead, the DAS at Disney World is offered to guests with a disability that makes prolonged queue waits difficult to manage.
The program explicitly states that DAS passes are available to guests regardless of whether their disability is visible.
Guests with mobility-based disabilities (e.g. those who use a wheelchair or electric conveyance vehicle) are not eligible for DAS.
Getting a Walt Disney World DAS
There are two ways to register for the DAS Disney World program: before you arrive for your visit, or upon entering the park.
Registration involves answering a few questions from a cast member. It does not require medical documentation or other proof of disability.
Pre-registration
Two to 30 days before your visit, you can pre-register with a live video call with a cast member. Currently, the live chat is available in English and can be requested from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST.
All guests registering must be at least 18 years old, and the guest registering for DAS must be present during the live chat. You’ll need to log into your Disney account for the session.
During the video chat, the cast member will ask you a few questions to determine your eligibility for Disney World’s DAS.
If your request is approved, you’ll have your photo taken. This photo is used for verification upon entering the park. You can also take this time with the cast member to schedule your two DAS Advance experiences.
In-person
You can also register for Disney World’s DAS program in person through guest relations on the day of your visit.
In terms of what to say to get a DAS pass, start by explaining why waiting in extended queues would be difficult for you. For example:
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“I experience ___________ which makes tolerating long lines difficult.”
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“When I’m in line for a long period of time, ___________ happens.”
Where to find Guest Relations at the parks:
A photo of the guest using DAS will be taken if a DAS is provided. The cast member will also set you up with your two preferred experiences and return windows.
Being honest with your responses during the DAS registration process is important. The program is meant for guests who truly need the accommodation.
Guests found to have falsified statements face a lifetime ban from Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Additionally, you’ll forfeit purchased tickets, passes, park products, and services and Disney will not refund you for the loss.
Is the DAS transferable between Disney theme parks?
How many Disney World DAS return times can I have at once?
Can Disney ask for proof of disability?
(Top photo courtesy of Walt Disney World)
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