Disney World and Special Needs: Understanding the DAS System
The Disability Access Service, otherwise known as DAS, is for guests who have a disability that prevents them from waiting in conventional lines. While it doesn’t allow you to skip to the head of the line without a wait, it does allow you to schedule a return time that’s equivalent to the current wait time for the attraction, but instead of waiting in line you can head out and relax until your return time. Let’s take a look at the main points of this system.
Note that you can only have one active return time at a time, but as soon as you finish an attraction you have a return time for, you can get a new return time for that attraction, or any other attraction. The DAS cardholder does not need to be present to get a return time, but they must be present when it’s time to ride the attraction.
Your first step: talk to Guest Services
When you first arrive at the theme park you’ll visit Guest Services, which will be located near the entrance. There are Guest Services offices at each of the 4 theme parks. You’ll discuss your situation with them and they’ll offer options, which may include the DAS card. Keep in mind that they cannot legally require any proof of your disability, and as such they will not accept proof. They will take trust what you tell them, treat you with compassion, and do everything they can reasonably do to accommodate you.Getting your DAS card
If you and the Cast Member decide a DAS card is the right option, you’ll go through a registration process that includes having your photo taken. If the card is issued for a minor, you can have the parent’s picture on the card. A signature will then be required. The card is valid for up to 60 days, or the length of the ticket you have. The card you get will be good for all Disney theme parks within the valid timeframe.Using your DAS card
Simply head to the attraction you want to visit. The Cast Member will give you a return time, which will be based on the wait time for the standby line. You can then leave the line and enjoy other rides, meat a character, relax, or do virtually anything you want. When your return time comes up, you simply return, show your stamped DAS card, and ride without a wait.Note that you can only have one active return time at a time, but as soon as you finish an attraction you have a return time for, you can get a new return time for that attraction, or any other attraction. The DAS cardholder does not need to be present to get a return time, but they must be present when it’s time to ride the attraction.
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