For families like mine, the Disability Assistance Service has allowed us to navigate and enjoy the many attractions and characters throughout Walt Disney World. My oldest son was diagnosed at birth with Fragile X Syndrome, the leading cause of inherited intellectual disability and the leading known single-gene cause of autism. Although he enjoys all that Walt Disney World has to offer, it can quickly overwhelm him. My family is incredibly appreciative of this service.
Disney Parks recently updated the registration process and usage guidelines. This blog will help highlight the recent updates.
What is the Disability Assistance Service (DAS)?
A service intended to accommodate only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar disorder are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended time.
Do I need documentation of a disability?
The Cast Member will ask several questions to determine eligibility. They will not review any physician's letter or medical documents.
How do I register for the DAS?
The DAS is available via live video chat as soon as 30 days in advance of a park visit. The Guest requesting the DAS (or their parent/guardian) must be 18 years of age or older and must be present during the video call. If deemed eligible, a photo will be taken of the Guest. Live video chat is available from 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET.
*There is not an in-person option. Guests who do not register in advance can participate in a live video conference on the day of their visit.
What do I need to prepare for the live video chat?
• The Guest requesting the DAS (or their parent/guardian) must have a My Disney Experience account and must be logged in to complete the call.
• If Guests are using a mobile device or tablet be sure to download the Zoom application to connect to the video chat.
• Be sure the device has a working camera and microphone.
• The Guest must review and accept the Terms & Conditions before requesting the live video chat.
How long is a DAS valid?
DAS is valid for the length of the ticket or up to 120 days, whichever is shorter. Guests will need to re-register for the program once it has expired.
How many guests can be included?
DAS registration maximum party size is the registered DAS Guest and up to 3 additional party members, for a total of 4 people. Discuss with the Cast Member during your video call if your immediate family or travel party is larger than 4.
How is a same-day DAS return time selected?
Same-day DAS return time selections can be made with the self-selection tool in the My Disney Experience app, once the guest and their party are inside the park. Tap the menu ( ≡ ) option at the bottom right of the welcome screen. Then, tap on the DAS button to enter the self-selection tool. Guests can also obtain return times directly from a Cast Member at the attraction, Guest Relations, or Guest Experience locations. The return time will be comparable to the current standby wait.
What do we do once our DAS return time has begun?
Approach the Lightning Lane entrance. The person assigned the DAS needs to scan their ticket/magic band first to activate the entitlement for the party. Then the rest of the party will scan their magic band/tickets.
How long of a time do I have to utilize my return time?
DAS return times are not limited to a specific window and are valid until the park closes or an attraction closes for the day.
When can I select my next DAS return time?
Ten minutes after a return time has been redeemed through either the mobile app or returning to Guest Relations or Guest Experience.
Can I choose more than one self-selected DAS return time?
No. You are not able to self-select a same-day DAS option until your current entitlement is redeemed or canceled.
Can a Guest with a DAS purchase Genie + and/or Individual Lightning Lane Attractions?
Yes. A guest with the DAS may combine Genie + and/or purchase Individual Lightning Lane attractions.
Can a Guest with a DAS return time receive a boarding group for one of the virtual queue attractions?
Yes. A Guest can hold one active DAS return time and one virtual queue boarding group at the same time. When your boarding group has been called, the Guest with the DAS and travel party will speak to a Cast Member at the attraction for assistance accessing the queue.
Are there any resources available for planning my visit?
Yes. Disney Parks has developed several resources to enhance the experience for Guests with disabilities. These include:
• Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations
• Restroom options are available in addition to single, companion, and adult changing tables.
• Sensory Experience Details.
• “Take a break” areas are available in each park.
For more information, you can visit: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/
What if I am unsure how to use the DAS?
Please see a Cast Member at the selected attraction, Guest Relations, or Guest Experience.
Your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist is here to help! Disney has an email to contact them directly with any questions: Disability.services@disneyparks.com..
