Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort have announced the launch of an updated Disability Access Service (DAS) this spring. The new service, designed to accommodate guests with developmental disabilities such as autism or similar conditions, will be implemented on May 20 at Walt Disney World and on June 18 at Disneyland Resort.
One notable change is the extension of the DAS validity period. Until the official launch, DAS passes will be valid for up to 30 days. After the launch, the pass will be valid for the length of the ticket or up to 120 days, providing guests with a longer window of accessibility.
The updated DAS also introduces changes to party size restrictions. The party size attached to a DAS will be limited to four individuals and is restricted to immediate family members, including spouses, parents, and children. However, Disney has stated that they will accommodate more than four in a party if there are additional minors.
To streamline the process, both resorts recommend pre-planning virtually. Disneyland Resort will offer a virtual video chat for guests to discuss their needs ahead of time, while still maintaining an in-person option at the ticket booth windows on the esplanade. Walt Disney World will also provide virtual consultation on the same day, with in-person registration no longer available starting May 20.
Guests will continue to have the ability to make ride selections through the My Disney Experience and Disneyland apps, ensuring a seamless experience.
The update comes as DAS usage has reportedly tripled over the past five years, making the system increasingly complex to manage. A Walt Disney World spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to providing a great experience for all guests, including those with disabilities, stating, “Disney is dedicated to providing a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our Guests with disabilities have a wonderful time when visiting our theme parks.”
In addition to the updated DAS, Disney has announced plans to introduce a defined “return-to-queue” service in the coming months for guests who may need to leave a queue to use the restroom.
Been to Disney numerous times I totally agree with this but with some flexibility if grandparents are with the group!! But I have to say other than the DAS system that’s in place that Disney have caused a lot of the problems with the queuing system now! Quite few years ago most were on the same system got a fast pass n after using u got another fast pass ……. Now it is all about money money money! Seems as though the richest amount us can get the lightening lanes and genie plus thing that you’ve got in place now and everybody else has to Q in the ever increasing Q which seems as though Disney is all about money grabbing! 25 years ago you made us all seem special and now it’s how much we spend …….i know u won’t got back as some people will pay for the upgrade but was lots better with the old system
I think this new das system is very unfair and discriminating!!!
Staff very rude who you try to have a conversation with my husband was extremely upset and there was no compassion
He was a firefighter most of his life now has mental health issues and mobility but Disney were NOT interested in helping just humiliated him !!!