Accessibility and Convenience: Disability Access Service at Disney World

Key Takeaways

Disney World is known as the happiest place on earth, but navigating the resort theme parks can be daunting for those with disabilities or mobility challenges. Fortunately, Disney World offers various disability access services to ensure that all guests can enjoy their visit to the fullest. From complimentary wheelchairs and scooters for rent to designated viewing areas for parades and shows, Disney World strives to create a magical experience for everyone, regardless of ability.

Additionally, their Disability Access Service (DAS) program allows guests with disabilities to obtain a return time for attractions, reducing wait times and ensuring a more enjoyable visit. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, Disney World sets the standard for theme park accommodations, making it a welcoming and accommodating destination for all visitors.

What is the Disney Disability Access Service?

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Disney DAS is a program designed to assist guests in navigating and enjoying the attractions at Disney theme parks. This service allows individuals who cannot wait in long lines due to their disability, like autism or similar, to request a return time at certain attractions, allowing them to enjoy other park areas while waiting.

This service is available to guests with physical, cognitive, and behavioral disabilities and those with sensory issues. It aims to make the Disney experience more accessible and enjoyable for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. By providing accommodations and support, Disney ensures everyone can have a magical and inclusive experience at its parks.

Disney’s DAS Return Time

The Disney Disability Access Service (DAS) return time is designed to assist guests who cannot tolerate long waits in lines at Disney parks. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Requesting DAS: Guests can ask the DAS at Guest Relations or another designated location within the park. The guest with a disability must be present at the time of enrollment.
2. Registration: A Cast Member will discuss the guest’s needs and then use a handheld device or the My Disney Experience app to associate the guest’s ticket or MagicBand with the DAS.
3. Issuing Return Times: Instead of waiting in line at attractions, guests receive a return time. This return time is typically the current wait time minus the average wait time for the attraction.
4. Using DAS: When the return time arrives, the guest can return to the attraction and enter through an alternative or Genie+ entrance, depending on the attraction.
5. Receiving Another Return Time: After using the DAS return time at one attraction, guests can receive another return time for a different attraction, continuing the process throughout the day.

The details and procedures may vary slightly depending on the park and the guest’s needs. For the most current information and guidelines regarding the Disney Disability Access Service, it’s recommended to inquire directly at Guest Relations or visit the official Disney Parks website.

Who qualifies for DAS at Disney World?

To determine eligibility for DAS, guests may qualify for DAS at Disney World if they have a developmental disability such as autism or something similar that impacts their ability to wait in long lines. Due to a developmental disability, some guests may find navigating the crowded park challenging and maintaining patience in queues. To access the new DAS system, guests must go through a DAS registration process where their eligibility will be determined. Once approved, they will be issued a DAS return time that allows them to bypass long lines and return at a designated time.

Features of the Disability Access Service

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Disney World offers various disability access services to ensure guests enjoy the parks thoroughly. Guests using DAS can expect these features:

• Guest Assistance Card (GAC): The DAS Card has replaced the Guest Assistance Card. However, guests who still have the GAC can continue to use it until it expires. The GAC provided access to attractions via a return time, allowing guests and their parties to enjoy attractions without waiting in the standard queue lines.
• Accessible Attractions: Many attractions throughout the Disney World parks are accessible to eligible guests. This may include accessible ride vehicles, boarding options, and alternate entrances for guests using wheelchairs or mobility devices.
• Mobility Aid Rentals: Wheelchairs, Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs), and strollers are available at each Disney World park.
• Accessible Transportation: Disney World provides accessible transportation options, including buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner, which is equipped to accommodate guests.
• Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs): ALDs are available at select attractions for guests who are hard of hearing. These devices provide amplified audio for attraction experiences.
• Sign Language Interpretation: With advance notice, guests can request sign language interpretation services for shows and attractions.
• Service Animal Accommodations: Disney World welcomes service animals and provides accommodations for guests with service animals, including relief areas and access to attractions.
• Companion Restrooms: Each park has companion restrooms equipped to accommodate guests who require assistance from a companion.
• Guest Relations: Guest Relations Cast Members are available throughout the parks to assist, answer questions, and provide information about disability access services.

These features are designed to ensure that guests have a magical experience at Disney World. Guests should review the official Disney World website or contact Guest Relations for specific information and assistance regarding disability access services.

How to Make the Most of the Disability Access Service

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Disney World offers a Disability Access Service (DAS) for guests with disabilities, allowing them to make the most of their visit to the Walt Disney World theme parks. To utilize the DAS, a guest with a disability must participate in the registration process at the Disney Resort. Once registered, the guest can request to use the DAS at any theme park intended to accommodate those utilizing the service.

Guests registered for the DAS must hold one DAS return time at a time, allowing them to enjoy attractions without waiting in line for an extended period. The DAS pass is provided to accommodate only guests with disabilities, and each registered DAS guest can have only one active DAS return time at a time.

Guests can also obtain return times via the My Disney Experience App. The DAS is intended to determine eligibility for the service, ensuring that only guests with disabilities can utilize the benefits. By adhering to the guidelines and policies of the DAS, guests can provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience at the theme parks.

Tips for Navigating the Parks with the DAS

For some extra tips on the best way to get around Disney World with DAS, check out these tips:

• Register for DAS: To register for DAS, visit Guest Relations or Services for Guests with Disabilities at any Disney World Park. You’ll need to provide information about your specific needs, and a Cast Member will explain how DAS works.
• Understand the Process: Once registered, you can request return times for attractions at designated kiosks near the attraction entrances or through the My Disney Experience app. A return time will be assigned, allowing you to return to the attraction and enter via the DAS entrance.
• Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the attractions and their accessibility features. Use the My Disney Experience app or park maps to identify which attractions offer DAS access and plan your day accordingly.
• Prioritize Attractions: Determine your must-do attractions and prioritize obtaining return times for those experiences first. This will help you make the most of your time in the parks.
  
• Arrive Early: Arriving early in the day can increase your chances of obtaining return times for popular attractions before they run out.
• Use Additional Services: To enhance your park experience, use other services, such as accessible transportation, companion restrooms, and assistive listening devices.
• Communicate with Cast Members: If you have questions or encounter issues with DAS, don’t hesitate to communicate with Cast Members. They are there to assist you and ensure you have a magical experience.
• Stay Flexible: While DAS can help reduce wait times for attractions, remember to remain flexible and patient, especially during busy periods. Depending on attraction demand, some waiting may still be required.
• Stay Hydrated and Rest: Take daily breaks to rest, hydrate, and recharge. Disney World can be physically demanding, so listen to your body’s needs.

Overall, remember to take in the sights, sounds, and experiences of Disney World. Focus on creating cherished memories with your loved ones, and don’t let accessibility concerns overshadow the parks’ magic.

Utilizing Genie+ with the DAS

Utilizing Genie+ with Disney’s DAS is a beautiful way to enhance the theme park experience for eligible guests. Using the Genie+ feature, guests can efficiently plan their day and access attractions without waiting in long lines. The DAS ensures guests have equal opportunities to enjoy the park’s offerings by providing accommodations such as alternate entrances or virtual queues.

Combining these two services allows guests to easily navigate the park and enjoy their time at Disney. It is important to remember to follow the guidelines when you utilize DAS services respectfully so that all guests can have an enjoyable experience.

FAQs: Disney World Disability Access Service

What is the Disability Access Service (DAS) at Disney World?

DAS stands for Disability Access Service, a system implemented by Disney World to assist guests with special needs. It allows individuals with special needs, such as developmental disabilities like autism, to enjoy their visit without having to wait in conventional queues for extended periods.

How do I register for DAS at Walt Disney World Resort?

To register for DAS at Walt Disney World Resort, you must visit the Guest Relations location at any theme park within the resort. Inform the Cast Member about your need for DAS, and they will guide you through the registration process.

Is DAS valid at all Disney World theme parks?

Yes, DAS is valid at all Disney World theme parks. Once registered, you can use DAS to request a return time for attractions across the parks.

What do guests with special needs need to know about using DAS?

Guests with special needs, such as autism or similar developmental disabilities, should be aware that they must be present to use DAS. The system is designed to enhance the Disney experience for individuals who may find it challenging to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period.

Can I have someone else register for DAS on my behalf?

The individual who requires DAS must be present at the time of registration. This ensures that the appropriate person utilizes the system and helps maintain the integrity of the service.

What if there are changes to my DAS party or needs during my visit?

If your DAS party or specific needs change during your visit to Disney World, you can speak to a Cast Member at the Guest Relations location for assistance. They will help accommodate any required adjustments.

Conclusion

Over an extended period, the DAS system has effectively decreased wait times for individuals who require special accommodations. The implementation of the DAS has allowed guests to enjoy the park without the stress of waiting in long lines, allowing them to experience all that Disney World has to offer fully!

The one DAS return time has also been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and efficient process for guests with disabilities. Disney remains committed to providing a positive and inclusive experience for all guests, and the current Disney World disability access service is a testament to that dedication.