If you have a family member with a disability, you know that finding accessible attractions and destinations can be difficult. That’s why the Disney Disability Access Pass can be such a lifesaver. This pass provides special accommodations for guests with disabilities, making it easier to enjoy all that Disney has to offer. Here is everything you need to know about the Disability Access Pass, including how to get one and what benefits it offers.
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What is Disney Disability Access Service, DAS?
Disability Access Service, DAS for short, is Disney’s way to help disabled people while at the Disney parks. DAS allows guests to get a return time for attractions based on the current wait time, so they don’t have to wait in line.
This service is available for guests with cognitive disabilities, sensory disabilities, mobility disabilities, and other disabilities that make it difficult to wait in a traditional queue.
DAS was created in response to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which required Disney to make reasonable accommodations for guests with disabilities. In the past, guests would have to request a traditional Genie+ reservation or use a wheelchair or scooter to get priority access to rides and attractions.
With DAS, guests don’t need to wait in line or use other special accommodations, so it’s a more inclusive system.
Eligibility for Getting DAS at Disney World
At Disney World, one of the main things that people want to enjoy is the fantastic rides and entertainment. However, many people also want to experience this exciting world through a more unique perspective—the ability to fully immerse themselves in the Disney magic.
For those who are unable to fully appreciate it in person for medical or other reasons, there is another option: DAS or Disability Access Service. DAS allows individuals with qualifying conditions such as hearing loss or visual impairments to access Disney World attractions at any point during their visit, so long as they are accompanied by one or two companions.
To be eligible for DAS at Disney World, you must submit an application with appropriate documentation showing that you have a qualifying condition. Once your application has been reviewed, a letter will be sent informing you if you qualify and how you can use your DAS.
Once approved, you can collect your designated return time window from any Guest Services location; then simply head over to your desired attraction within that window whenever it’s convenient for you and enjoy! With DAS, anyone can experience all the excitement of Disney World—whether they’re walking around and taking in the sights or riding all their favorite rides again and again.
Lines at Disney can be long, and waiting in line can be hard for those with disabilities, so DAS is a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy the magic of Disney World. Whether you have a hearing impairment, visual impairment, or another disability that makes it difficult for you to wait in lines, DAS can help give you the same access as anyone else at Disney.
Disabilities Related to Waiting in Line
For guests with cognitive disabilities, sensory disabilities, and other disabilities that make it difficult to wait in a traditional queue, DAS provides a return time for the attraction so they don’t have to wait in line. This service is available for guests with cognitive disabilities, sensory disabilities, mobility disabilities, and other disabilities that make it difficult to wait in a traditional queue.
Disabilities Related to Crowds
There are certain disabilities such as Autism that make being in crowded places for long periods of time impossible. DAS allows people with these disabilities to enjoy the rides and attractions at Disney without having to wait in long lines.
Disabilities – Only Mobility Challenges
Those who have mobility challenges but do not have trouble waiting in line would not be eligible for DAS per the guidelines.
That is because Disney offers wheelchairs or ECVs to help those who can’t walk long distances or stand in line for an extended period of time.
Guests who want to use a wheelchair or ECV can go to any Guest Services location and request one. They will need to return the item when they are done using it for the day.
To get DAS, guests with disabilities can go to any Guest Services location and request an application. The application must be filled out and submitted with documentation showing that the guest has a qualifying disability. Once the application is reviewed, the guest will be sent a letter informing them if they qualify for DAS and how to use it
How To Appy For The DAS at Disney World
The first step to getting DAS at Disney World is to obtain a disability access card. This can be done by visiting any Disney park guest services office and why you need accommodation.
Once you have your DAS card, you can begin to enjoy all of the benefits that it offers. Your card guarantees quicker entry at attractions in every Disney park, as well as assistance on rides with heavier crowds.
You can also pre-register online and do a video chat. Here’s the link to do that.
It also allows you to take breaks throughout the day without having to return to the front of the line when you are ready to go back out again. Whether you’re a young child or an adult with special needs, getting DAS at Disney World will help make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable for everyone involved.
How to Use DAS at Disney World?
Use Genie+ on My Disney Experience to Schedule Your DAS Selection
Previous Method
You arrive at the park, go to the attraction, and present your DAS to the Cast Member. You will be able to board the attraction via the Lightning Lane.
If the line is closed, you can choose to wait in a regular queue or return at another time using your DAS.
New Method
Using the Disney app, head over to the Genie+, where you can now schedule your return time for any of those pesky rides that always leave guests wondering when they’ll get off.
You must first register DAS via the online method or at Guest Services in order to use this feature once inside a park.
Check the bottom of the screen when you are using the app.
If needed, refresh until all options show up again before making selections.
This will only work inside the theme park.
On the bottom right of your app welcome screen, you will see the DAS button. You can then select which attraction you will come back for next. The app will give you a return time in the form of a 2-hour window.
Use a combination of the DAS pass and riding rides that already have short wait times to make the most of your time. Feel free to cancel and change your selection if needed.
Wait for your Return Time
You can only have one DAS reservation at a time, so you have to use it or cancel it in order to book another one.
While you wait for your ride return time, you can rest, grab a bite to eat, shop, or ride something without a long line.
Go Back to the Ride Once Your Time Arrives
When your time to ride comes around, head back to the ride. There the cast member will scan your MagicBand or park pass and allow you and your up to 6 guests through.
Remember, this pass is focused on one person, it cannot be used without them.
Obtain a New Return Time
Once you have ridden your ride selection, you can go ahead and select another attraction with a long line and repeat the process!
Cancel Your Ride Return Time
If for some reason you’re unable to make your ride return time, you can cancel it in the app or tell the cast member at the attraction.
Be sure to check your app before you head over to make sure it is canceled!
Rides That Offer DAS Access
DAS does not work on every ride in the parks.
Here is a list of attractions throughout Walt Disney World Resort that do offer DAS access:
Magic Kingdom Park
- The Barnstormer
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Haunted Mansion
- “it’s a small world”
- Jungle Cruise
- Mad Tea Party
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic
- Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- See Mickey at Town Square Theater
- See Cinderella and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
- Splash Mountain
- See Princess Tiana and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
- Tomorrowland Speedway
- Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
EPCOT
- Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
- Journey Into Imagination With Figment
- Living with the Land
- Mission: SPACE
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends
- Soarin’ Around the World
- Spaceship Earth
- Test Track
- Turtle Talk With Crush
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Alien Swirling Saucers
- Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage
- Disney Junior Play and Dance!
- For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
- Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
- Millennium Falcon : Smugglers Run
- Muppet*Vision 3D
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
- See Disney Stars at Red Carpet Dreams
- See Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™
- Toy Story Mania!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
- A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King
- DINOSAUR
- Feathered Friends in Flight!
- It’s Tough to be a Bug!
- Kali River Rapids
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Na’vi River Journey
How do you get on the Disney disability line?
There are several different ways to get on the Disney disability line, depending on your particular needs and situation. In general, it is advisable to reach out to Disney’s disability services team as soon as possible after booking your trip. This will allow you to work with one of their disability specialists who can help you navigate the complicated process, determine what specific accommodations you might need while in the park, and provide other useful advice and resources.
At the parks, you will use the lightning lane line to ride the ride.
Can Disney ask what your disability is?
No, Disney cannot ask what your disability is. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, disabled individuals are protected from discrimination and are entitled to equal access under the law. This means that if you require accommodations or other assistance while in the park, Disney must provide them as long as it is reasonable and will not cause an undue burden on their operations.
How many people can use a DAS pass at Disney?
You can have up to 6 people attached to your DAS including the person who needs it.
Does ADHD qualify for Disney DAS?
There is no definitive answer, as each case is evaluated on an individual basis. However, generally speaking, conditions that would fall under the ADA guidelines for disability (such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, etc.) would likely also qualify for DAS at Disney.
Can DAS Use Genie+?
DAS Passholders can use Genie + in the sense that they are using the Genie + app to reserve their ride selections.
Disney DAS Pass FAQ
Q: What is the Disney DAS Pass?
A: The Disney Disability Access Service (DAS) Pass is a program designed to provide assistance to guests with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in a conventional queue line.
Q: How do I know if I qualify for DAS?
A: Guests with a disability that prevents them from waiting in a conventional queue line may qualify for DAS. This includes disabilities related to waiting in line, crowds, and mobility challenges.
Q: How do I apply for the Disney DAS Pass?
A: To apply for DAS, simply visit Guest Relations at any of the four Walt Disney World theme parks. You will need to provide a valid form of ID and have your photo taken.
Q: How do I use DAS in the parks?
A: Once you have been approved for DAS, you can use it to obtain a return time at select attractions. You will then return to the attraction at the designated return time and enter through Lightning Lane.
Q: What should I do if I experience tech issues with DAS?
A: If you experience any technical issues with your DAS, simply speak to a Cast Member at Guest Relations or at the attraction entrance for assistance.
Q: Can I combine Disney Genie+ and DAS?
A: Yes, you can use Disney Genie+ to schedule your DAS selection, allowing you to better plan your day at the park.
Q: How many people can use a DAS pass at Disney?
A: The DAS pass is valid for up to six guests in your party.
Q: Does ADHD qualify for the Disney DAS Pass?
A: Guests with ADHD may qualify for DAS if they have a disability related to waiting in a conventional queue line.
Write Tips for Using DAS Pass at Disney World
If you’re planning a trip to Disney World and have a Disability Access Service (DAS) Pass, here are some tips to help make the most of your experience:
1. Arrive early: You can obtain a DAS Pass at any Guest Relations location in the park. Arriving early in the day will give you plenty of time to secure your pass and start enjoying your day.
2. Plan your day: Once you have your DAS Pass, plan your day around the return times you’re given for each attraction. This will help you maximize your time in the park and avoid long lines.
What are some tips for using DAS at Disney?
Plan ahead.
Reach out to the Disney disability services team well in advance of your trip, so that you can work closely with a specialist who can help you navigate the DAS process and make sure all of your needs are met while in the park.
Make use of other accommodations and resources.
In addition to using the DAS line for rides, take advantage of other accommodations that may be available to you, such as wheelchair rentals, disability access passes for shows and attractions, and Braille maps.
Be prepared to explain your situation.
Since Disney cannot ask about your disability, you may need to be prepared to explain why you are using the DAS line and what specific accommodations you need. Be patient, courteous, and respectful at all times, and be sure to treat the staff with courtesy and respect as well.
Stay positive and patient throughout your visit.
Using DAS can be a frustrating experience at times, but it is important to remember that Disney strives to provide the best possible experience for all of its guests. With the right attitude and a willingness to work with the park staff, you can have a fun and memorable trip at Disney despite any challenges you may face along the way.
Use the My Disney Experience app
The app allows you to view wait times and attractions, as well as manage your DAS Pass return times. You can also use the app to locate the nearest restroom, restaurant, or attraction.
Be prepared to wait
Although the DAS Pass allows you to avoid the physical queue, you may still have to wait for your return time depending on the popularity of the attraction.
Be flexible
The DAS Pass is designed to accommodate guests with disabilities and their unique needs. Be open to changes or adjustments in your plans that may arise throughout the day.
Remember, the goal of the DAS Pass is to ensure that guests with disabilities are able to enjoy the park just like everyone else.
Have you ever had a problem with Disability Access Service? Let us know in the comments. We love to hear from our readers! In the meantime, stay tuned for more Disney park tips and tricks here on the blog. Thanks for reading!