What is DAS How to Get DAS How Does it Work FAQ
Disney Disability Access Service – DAS
The Disability Access Service – DAS – at Walt Disney World is a service created in order to minimize wait times for those who have cognitive special needs. For example, those with autism or similar neurodivergent disorders can benefit with DAS accommodations. This service replaces the Guest Assistance Card program.
Guests with physical special needs such mobility, hearing, or vision challenges have other accommodations. These accommodations do not require a DAS.
Firstly, those with mobility challenges can use ramps, designated entrances and exits to select attractions, and can rent or bring assistive devices. For example, using canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and EVCs do not require a DAS. Guests can simply approach a cast member at any queue or show and inquire about accessibility.
Secondly, those with hearing challenges can borrow a handheld captioning device at Guest Relations. This device provides text audio from attractions and amplifies atmospheric sounds. The captioning device is free to borrow with a $25.00 deposit. This deposit is 100% refundable when the device is returned. Additionally, select shows have sign language interpreters for select showtimes. Guest Relations can provide a list of these shows.
Thirdly, those with vision challenges can borrow a small lanyard-worn device at Guest Relations. This device provides an audio description of surroundings. The device is free to borrow with a $25.00 deposit. This deposit is 100% refundable when the device is returned. In addition, Braille and large print park information is available at Guest Relations. Many physical park signs also include Braille.
How to Get Disability Access Service (DAS)
Guests requesting DAS can arrange for a live video chat with a cast member. The guest needing the pass (along with the caregiver if it’s a child or adult needing assistance) must be present for the interview. This can be done 30 days prior to needing the pass. Currently, there is not an in person option to apply for DAS. However, a live video chat can also be done on the same day as a visit. A cast member will determine eligibility for the use of a DAS pass. If a guest is eligible, then the guest (or the guest’s caregiver) will be led through the registration process. The guest qualifying for the DAS is required to submit a photo. Please note that English is the only language currently available for the live chat.
Walt Disney World does not require a letter or documentation from a physician in order to prove a disability. Instead, the cast member will ask questions regarding the specifics of the disability and why that disability makes it a challenge to wait in a standard queue. For example, be prepared to elaborate on what triggers within a queue would be difficult to tolerate.
How Does Disney Disability Access Service (DAS) work?
Once a guest is signed up with the DAS system with Guest Relations, they will be able to manage the DAS through the My Disney Experience app. To find this part of the app, tap the “More” option at the bottom right of the welcome screen. Then, tap on the Disability Access Service (DAS) button to enter the self-selection flow. The tool can also be accessed from attraction detail screens. Guests are able to self-manage their return times here, but can also visit Cast Members at each attraction, of the Guest Experience team members located throughout the park.
Based on the current stand-by queue, the guest will then receive a return time to come back and experience the attraction without waiting in the line. This return time is valid throughout the rest of the day, however guests may only hold one return time at a time. When entering an attraction using DAS the guest with the DAS and their party will be admitted directly onto the attraction. The guest with the DAS pass must be present in order for anyone to experience the attraction without entering the normal queue. The person with the DAS may bring up to three additional party members to each attraction.
If a guest is traveling to Disneyland and has a DAS at Walt Disney World, the guest must reapply for this service.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does DAS provide a front of the line or immediate access to an attraction?
No. Guests will choose a return time selection on the My Disney Experience app. The return time will be equivalent to the stand by wait time. However, instead of waiting in the queue, the guest may find a quiet area to utilize. - What are some ideas of how to spend the wait time for an attraction?
Guests can grab a quick snack, find a bench and take a rest, or go shopping. In addition, it’s possible to watch a parade at the Magic Kingdom if it coincides with your wait time. Character meet and greets are another activity to enjoy. - Does a guest have to use the DAS exactly at an attraction’s return time?
No. That time will extend to the park closing time. However, only one DAS selection can be kept at a time. - How many return times can a guest have at one time?
Guests can have one DAS return time at a time. The next return time can be reserved 10 minutes after the previous return time has been used. An exception to his rule is that a guest can have one active DAS return time while reserving a time with an attraction with a virtual queue. - How long can a guest use DAS?
The DAS pass is valid for the length of stay or 120 days depending upon whichever is shorter. - How many people can accompany the DAS holder on an attraction?
The DAS holder may be accompanied with three people.
Additional Information
In addition to obtaining a DAS for neurodivergent guests, there is the option to visit Guest Relations for more assistance. Each park has a Guest Relations office near the park entrance. If asked, Guest Relations can provide detailed information about sensory details in each attraction. This is a helpful resource.
Visit our Walt Disney World with Special Needs page for more information on vacationing at Walt Disney World with Special Needs.