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.
I’d like to see the statistics on Genie+ revenue before and after May 20. Got to pay for these park upgrades somehow.
In June 2024 , we stood in lines up to 135 minutes . The temps went up to 105 degrees. I felt bad for the elderly. I felt bad for the overweight. I felt bad for little kids. I have a lot of empathy for people struggling at Disney under current conditions. I won’t be going back to Disney . The magic is gone.