Disney World is changing its DAS program: What guests with disabilities should know
Disney World is changing its policy for guests with disabilities.
The Florida theme parks (and the one in California) has a program called Disability Access Service (DAS) which allows guests who are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time due to a developmental disability. The parks are continuing the popular program, but they've made some adjustments to the qualifications, registration procedures, and length of validity to help ensure guests receive the accommodations they need.
“Disney is dedicated to providing a great experience for all guests, including those with disabilities, which is why we are so committed to delivering a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our guests with disabilities have a wonderful time when visiting our theme parks,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement.
Most importantly, for people planning Disney trips, DAS enrollment will not be available in person at the park after May 20. Guests may only enroll in a virtual meeting after that.
Here’s what travelers with disabilities should know about what's changed.
What is Disney World's Disability Access Service or DAS?
Disney recognizes that some guests who, "due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time."
Once they arrive at the park, guests who qualify for and enroll in DAS (or their parents or guardians) may receive return times for rides and attractions so instead of waiting in line, they may spend the time elsewhere and then come back for a shorter wait in person. They will still wait as long as a person in the standby line, even possibly a little longer, but they don't have to physically be there the whole time.
Return times are available through the My Disney Experience mobile app or in person from a cast member at any Guest Relations or Guest Experience Team location. DAS return times are valid until the park or an attraction closes for the day.
You may only have one active return time at a time.
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Who qualifies for DAS at Disney World?
DAS is intended for guests who are unable to wait in a conventional line for an extended period of time due to "a developmental disability like autism or similar," according to the website's new clarification.
Some guests with disabilities, such as those in wheelchairs, may still be able to wait in many lines.
Do I qualify for a Disney disability pass?
Disney World does not include a list of qualifying conditions, and everyone is different. You first must speak to a specially trained cast member "to determine what services may be appropriate to support their visit to the theme parks," which may include DAS.
Previously that could be done virtually or in person at Guest Relations locations but it will be virtual-only as of May 20. Currently, the video chat is only available in English.
DAS may be used by the enrollee and up to four companions (or more if there are more than four immediate family members who all want to experience an attraction together).
Need accomodations? 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 and the volume of users is far more than the intended audience, which impacts the experiences for people who need the accommodations. To help ensure DAS reaches its intended audience, as of May 20, 2024:
Guests must enroll in DAS with a virtual video meeting, not in person at the park.
New DAS enrollments will be valid for 120 days starting from the date of registration, double the previous 60. New enrollees who register between now and May 19 will have up to 30 days to use the service.
Guests may only book one active return window at a time, although you can hold one virtual queue boarding group at the same time.
Disney is increasing the number of specially trained cast members to help guests with other access needs to find the right accommodations.
What does Disney consider a disability?
Disney recognizes all kinds of disabilities and access needs, many of which are invisible.
Not all disabilities will qualify for DAS, which is intended solely for people who would have problems waiting in line. Cast members will be able to help you determine what options are available to you in the virtual chats. Disney also offers:
American Sign Language interpretation at select activities
Disney Handheld Devices to provide assistive listening, captions and visual descriptions for guests with hearing impairment
Sensory guides for attractions
Guides for experiencing the park with a mobility device
Single-stall restrooms with room for mobility devices and companion-assisted services
A variety of other queue options such as Rider Switch, Single Rider, and "Stroller as a Wheelchair"
Service animals are welcome in all attraction queues but may not be allowed to ride some of them.
Does Disney request proof of disability?
Disney does not require documentation proving disability or access needs. This will not change with the new policy.
What if someone lies to get Disney DAS?
Anyone found making false statements to get DAS will be permanently banned from Disney World and Disneyland. Any existing passes, tickets or other park services will be forfeited and not refunded, the website says.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Disney World in Florida overhauling Disability Access Service, DAS
