It’s no secret that Disney World has gone through quite a bit of changes as of late.
Cinderella Castle
The EPCOT Transformation is almost finally complete, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be opening this summer after a years-long refurbishment, and Animal Kingdom is set to get a huge expansion (eventually). But, another important change has just rolled out in Disney World — here’s what you need to know.
Disney World’s Disability Access Service (DAS) has officially changed as of Monday, May 20th, 2024.
Slinky Dog Dash
Disney Disability Access Service (DAS) is a program that accommodates Disney World visitors and their families who have difficulty standing in extended queues due to a disability. With DAS, you can schedule a return time equivalent to the current standby wait for an attraction. The service does not provide immediate attraction access. Disney explains that DAS accommodates those who are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time “due to a developmental disability like autism or similar.”
Big Thunder Mountain Wait Time
Previously, Disney allowed you to talk with a Cast Member online to pre-register for DAS, at which time you can book up to two DAS Advance ride times during each day of your visit via DAS Advance. If a selection is available, you have one hour from that time to scan into that ride’s Lightning Lane.
But, this has now changed. As of May 20th, Disney is partnering with Inspire Health Alliance to assist with its DAS approval process. The party size for DAS has changed from six people to just “immediate family” or four other people.
Tower of Terror
Not only that, but the rules regarding pre-entitlements have changed as well. Previously, DAS came with two pre-entitlements. With the new system, pre-entitlements and DAS will not be grouped together and will be used as separate options depending on guest needs. In many cases, those who are eligible for DAS will NOT receive those entitlements.
In terms of those “pre-entitlements,” Disney hasn’t been very clear, but we think that those are referring to the ability to skip two lines per day using a DAS pass, or the ability to book these two “skips” in advance. And, the new DAS enrollment will be extended from 60 days to 120 days. So, once you’re registered within the DAS system, you won’t have to register again for another 120 days.
Dinosaur in Animal Kingdom
As these changes are just now rolling out, it’s possible that Disney could tweak the new program even further depending on what sort of results they get from this updated DAS system. Either way, we’ll be on the lookout for more updates and news on Disney’s new DAS system — which is also set to roll out on June 18th at Disneyland.
Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney news and more!
Learn More About DAS Program Changes in Disney World Here
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
When are you heading to Disney World next? Tell us in the comments.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
Entitlement???? Skip the line??? Your article is extremely ableist and factually incorrect. Do better, Be better!
Hi! We appreciate your feedback on our article. DAS is definitely not skipping the line. The line skipping and entitlements language came from Disney themselves in press releases issued to media outlets. We understand this is a very personal and sensitive issue for many people, and we’ll be careful to use specific and accurate language to continue to keep readers updated on any DAS news. Thank you again for sharing your feedback and helping us be better!
I agree with the above comment. Making experiences accessible for disabled people should not be seen as them receiving a privilege, as you have implied by using phrases like “entitlement” and simply “skipping the line”, but rather it’s a NECESSITY. It’s already difficult enough for disabled people to receive support without articles perpetuating ideas like this.
This article is disgraceful and ableist. DAS has never been about line skipping as you don’t skip the line you still have to wait the required time. Do better. This just adds to discrimination and sensationalist headlines and wrong.
Hi Elliott! We appreciate your feedback on our article. DAS is definitely not skipping the line. The line skipping and entitlements language came from Disney themselves in press releases issued to media outlets. We understand this is a very personal and sensitive issue for many people, and we’ll be careful to use specific and accurate language to continue to keep readers updated on any DAS news. Thank you again for sharing your feedback and helping us be better!
Hi! We appreciate your feedback on our article. DAS is definitely not skipping the line. The line skipping and entitlements language came from Disney themselves in press releases issued to media outlets. We understand this is a very personal and sensitive issue for many people, and we’ll be careful to use specific and accurate language to continue to keep readers updated on any DAS news. Thank you again for sharing your feedback and helping us be better!
The line-skipping is not perpetrated by the disabled person, but by the dozen family members and friends that tag along. Those very able-bodied folks are the line-skippers.
Nana can pick her 3 favorite grandchildren to ride Seven Dwarfs with–it’s Standby for everybody else!
Disappointed that Disney has not clarified the language surrounding “Developmental Disabilities” as that cuts out people like myself with PTSD who struggle with traditional lines for reasons beyond our control that aren’t developmental.
One of the more aggravating issues in regard to “line skipping” is when one or two people get in line and hold places for another four or more people in their group get in to the queue later and join the two waiting in line. A simple sign stating you MUST have your entire party or a cast member asking if they are the entire group. I understand one or possibly even two people in the party needing a potty break but let’s be reasonable (and fair).
@DFB Gigi, I encourage you to notify Disney of their offensive “language” when referring to DAS and that you are getting feedback for them. Seriously, that is rude and arrogant. We pay for our visits just like everyone else.
So I am confused. Physical handicaps are no longer considered?
Going back to a paid fast pass system would allow anyone with any disability to enjoy minimal waiting.
I think it’s clear to see that Disney is being ableist, not DFB. It’s a shame that many disabled people will no longer be able to visit Disney if these changes remain.
If Disney stopped being so greedy and returned to the old free FastPass system this would not be an issue. The old system was free, easy and could be planned early. You also did not have to be tied to your phone all day. Of course Disney is only interested in more money for their CEO and does not care about the people.
My husband previously ss a DAS pass but he has only been to ride one ride at the most per day that we’re at the park. I wonder if others on DAS do the same. It’s hard to fathom someone on DAS going from one ride to another.
Disney is going to be sued into oblivion with CMs like this one who was incredibly rude to a DAS applicant:
“Denied DAS
Told to practice waiting in lines
Told to work on coping skills
Told panic attacks and anxiety needs to be managed
Told their autism wasn’t “as severe”
As if this grown person was too stupid not to have known these strategies.
I don’t see how the immediate family issue is really going to be enforced by cast members. It is a mean thing to do to guests who have grandparents with them.
I was at MK a few weeks ago and was issued a DAS. I have had one for years. I understand the changes went into effect May 20th, but I don’t think much will change for those of us who have legitimate disabilities and who qualify for DAS.
Disney really made a mistake with their new DAS policy. It’s not line skipping. It’s assisting medically challenged people who have a hard time waiting for long periods of time in 100 degree heat. Apparently, they are denying diabetic and adults with autism.
It’s waiting the same time for the ride just waiting outside the actual queue. Not line skipping.
Thanks for your article explaining how DAS has changed to ensure it is used by those who need it, and not those who simply want it.
I don’t understand the comments you are getting on this article. The ” pre-entitlements” you mentioned in the article is something that is labeled by Disney, correct? When reading articles about DAS in the past, this term has been used to describe situations that can be used by the holder. Nobody complained about that language in your past articles, and I assumed it was just a term used by Disney to describe the actions that could be taken by the ticket holder.
Now what I really want to see is Disney crack down on the line skippers that drag six people through the line because they are “looking for someone” ROFL
Thank you for this article about the changes. Can you tell me if the time frame for talking to a cast member before my trip is still going to be 30 days from when my trip starts?
As an autistic person I don’t think the article’s language is ableist, they seem to be doing their best, but this is definitely disgusting on Disney’s part.
Because my husband has a neurological disability (transverse myelitis), that affects every bodily system from his neck down, for various biological reasons other than his obvious mobility issue(s), we have been using DAS for more than a decade. Now, since his condition is not “due to a developmental disability” and because his condition is rare and its consequences are so numerous to explain, it seems unlikely that we will ever have DAS again. And I cannot fathom how I’m supposed to turn his wheelchair around after a 45 minute wait and negotiate the two of us back to the entrance (“if you need to leave the line, ask a Cast Member for help.” Will there be Cast Members dispersed through the line?) while he’s having a seizure or passing out from heatstroke. I’ve heard about the scams some people have pulled to get DAS, and that’s unfortunate, but can’t this system be scammed by faking a “developmental disability”?
It’s sad that so many people were cheating that Disney finally had to limit this. I understand why they did this but am sympathetic to those with actual disabilities that are affected. It’s always the cheaters that make it hard for everyone.
I had zero issue with this article, DFB Gigi. It was very informative and well-written.
I wish Disney would crack down on the true “line skippers” like the people that perpetually pretend to need to catch up to someone further in the line, or who send one person and then the remaining 8 party members join them an hour later! CMs seem to be blind to these issues while “cracking down” on people with a true need!
Wow, everyone getting so offended at DFB using the language that Disney used themselves in a press release. “Do better”? How about you all do better and research something before playing victim just like with everything else these days. People are so soft it’s unreal
If I am correct in reading this, what DISNEY is saying (not Disney food blog, because you only report the news) is that those who receive the DAS will only receive two rides per day and that is it. Are we/they not able to go up to any ride we/they wish to receive another time to return throughout the day like it has been? I just want to understand this for my sons sake who is Autistic and absolutely cannot tolerate the lines.
As always, thank you for reporting.
As someone who is disabled, I did NOT take offense with your article. And I agree with Disney’s use of the words “pre-entitlements” and “skips” because that is exactly what they are. It’s nice to know that Disney is trying to make things fairer for all of their guests because the abuse of the DAS system has been going on for far too long.
The problem with the new DAS pass is it’s now totally discriminatory to certain conditions that makes queuing for long periods extremely hard and stressful. We don’t want privileges just help, so we can enjoy the magic too.
Hi Melanie! The two pre-entitlements are just rides that you can schedule in advance if you are approved for DAS. These two selections (per day) are in addition to all the rides you can select on your day of visit so you can definitely ride more than two rides per day.
Thank you so much for your kind words, June. We truly appreciate it.
Hi Lynn! From what I understand, it seems to be a case by case basis and there’s no way to know whether or not you will be approved or denied without speaking directly to a DAS Cast Member and explaining your need. Disney’s wording is not all-encompassing so there may still be a chance you will be approved, but it will likely depend on several factors including your party size.
Hi Jennifer! Disney’s website still states that you may pre-register as soon as 30 days in advance of a park visit, but no less than 2 days before arrival.
Hi Randal. You will need to speak with a Cast Member directly to see if you will be considered as it is on a case by case basis.
I don’t believe that this is addressing all the people that have sent 2 people in their party to hold the place for 7 others. Yes, it’s true. Has happened multiple times. That is the real problem. There’s no attempt to fix this?!!!!
My problems with this new rule are that we are from uk and DVc members . If we are refused DAS for my grandson at 30 days we can’t come so if we’ve booked DVc rooms and passes and flights for $1500 each what do we do ? Perhaps I would have to try to get the DAS by booking a room for 120 days before we leave to see if we can get a D A S and come . I assume as we are a family of 2 adults 3 kids and me (granny) I won’t be able to ride with my family !
Perhaps time to break everyone’s heart and sell my DVC ???
As a mom who has needed a DAS for her autistic daughter, some of the language is concerning. We are not entitled or such. We have or have family members who are disabled. Trust me as a mom of a autistic daughter. I wish I could wait in the longest line because that would mean my daughter was not disabled. We are not getting entitlements. We are given a return time and return during that given time. We are not escorted to the front of each line. Along with being a AP I also purchase Genie Plus each trip and we come down at least once a month from Ohio. We are not the ones who cheated. It was those who used other family members or friends to utilize the DAS and are making it hard for others with disabilities. So sad. I understand Disney has to do something. Hey Disney since you are partnering up with a healthcare agency why not have myself and others who have disabled folks needing assistance load up our medical records. No different then when we apply for services for our loved ones. It is not a HIPPA violation. It is showing proof. I am all for it.
I agree that Disney needs to adjust their rules on DAS for those who actually need it and teaming with a medical facility will help. Limiting the number of people with the DAS holder to holder plus 4 is great. I’ve been next in line to board big thunder and a large group took half the train.
It has been mentioned about waiting in hot lines, but many of the lines at Disney World are partially or completely inside. Outside lines typically have fans, some even with misting.
Everyone gets tired of the heat, even those who live in hot places. If the heat is the problem, maybe vacation in a milder season.
Don’t get upset with Gigi and DFB, it’s not their new rule or wording.
I’m sure Disney will monitor how it’s going and adjust as needed. Inquire before you go and don’t assume you will be denied.
Just buy Genie+, if you want your whole group to be together. As a person that does buy Genie+, it is irritating to wait when random people from somewhere else that obviously don’t have an issue get to ride. I think Disney made the right decision in saying only this many people can line skip. Some people would take advantage of this service and use it for a large party.
What is the definition of “immediate family”? Does it include adult children as well? (i have 4)
Agree so much about the true line skippers. The twenty people who want to catch up to their party of two who they sent ahead! You can never find a cast member anywhere nearby in the queue to point these line skippers out. So how would you find a cast member to assist you with your needs?
I have heard from a very good source that Disney will make you sign an agreement BEFoRE you interview for DAS that you will not join any class action lawsuit as a result of your final determination. Wow! Isnt that telling and I think that calls for a class action lawsuit all by itself!
Meg,
I have used DAS due to heat stroke and we are able to get on numerous rides. You can go on any ride that uses DAS. They website/app has all the rides that can be booked using DAS.
Thank you DFB!
Your reporting is fabulous, accurate and unbiased!
Much appreciated ❤️
Yes, immediate family is not age-based.
Indeed. I like everyone else is extremely confused. I have been to Disney World multiple times with a DAS person and there was never any skipping. In the line. Lightning Lanes were able to be booked but we waited in the lightning.m land line for as long as we were supposed to based on where we were positioned in line. Also, with them dropping it to 4 people. It makes it very, very difficult as I travel quite frequently to spend time with family in Florida who is on the DAS and now because they’ve dropped it down to 4. I’m not going to be able to ride any rides with them.
For those of you speaking about large groups taking up half the train first and foremost, the DAS only previously allowed 6 peoploe so those would not particularly be people on the DAS.
I am aware of a lot of groups paying for a special park private tour to be able to get on the select rides at 1 time ahead of everyone else. It is extremely expensive and that is what those larger groups may be doing because I have been in groups who have done that before.
I’d love to see the stats on the usage of the DAS pass before and after they removed free fastpass. My wife I’m hoping qualifies this year on our trip but in previous trips her medical issues were managed by using the free fastpass selections and only joining shorter queues, but even then we were normally leaving the park by 1-2pm
I agree with Flying Mouse. It is not the disabled person at all. I feel terrible for people that have disabilities. Its the fact that the family and friends of the person take advantage of it. I seen it everytime. I been going to wdw for 20 + yrs. As soon as its time for the ride to board, a group comes flocking up. I can see a rider with the person but its c razy that a ton of people all swarm on. Its almost like the family is ruining it for the disabled.