WDW -Disability Access Service (DAS) - ARCHIVED THREAD; no longer vslid

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Would it be odd to go on arrival day (non park day for us) and get the card, as to not interrupt her plan for the next morning? I think waiting 20- 30 minutes for a card when she's already rehearsed her plan would cause a meltdown before we even get started.
 
Would it be odd to go on arrival day (non park day for us) and get the card, as to not interrupt her plan for the next morning? I think waiting 20- 30 minutes for a card when she's already rehearsed her plan would cause a meltdown before we even get started.

If you have time on your arrival day, that is an excellent idea! In April, we stayed off site in a vacation home with my parents. The afternoon of our arrival, my father, DD, and I drove over to AK to get tickets for my parents and my daughter's GAC. We went to Guest Services outside the turnstiles. It doesn't matter what park you get the card and you can use it any any of the 4 parks. It was so much easier than dealing with the crowds in the morning at City Hall.
 
I have very good confirmation that guests with Annual Passes will need a new DAS card every day if they are local guests.
Annual Passholders who are not local would be able to get a longer time limit if they have proof of length of stay ( like a resort key that shows their length of stay).


I think/hope that it will be very short-lived - the majority of Disneyland guests are Annual Passholders. And there are people who go literally every single day, or several days a week, with profound or complex disabilities, including me. Also, a lot of us travel solo or a person with profound needs travel with only one person with them - so we need to actually wait in that line, in the sun or heat or rain or whatever. Going to City Hall every two weeks (what it once was for AP) was stressful enough.

I literally do not know if I can handle going to City Hall every day I am in the parks. It is very crowded, non-accessible... I have a feeling that Disney will quickly make it one week, or something like that, if only because putting autistic children in City Hall over and over again is going to go badly. Even I had a panic attack when waiting in there.

I hope Disneyland changes their mind on this one.
 
I think/hope that it will be very short-lived - the majority of Disneyland guests are Annual Passholders. And there are people who go literally every single day, or several days a week, with profound or complex disabilities, including me. Also, a lot of us travel solo or a person with profound needs travel with only one person with them - so we need to actually wait in that line, in the sun or heat or rain or whatever. Going to City Hall every two weeks (what it once was for AP) was stressful enough.

I literally do not know if I can handle going to City Hall every day I am in the parks. It is very crowded, non-accessible... I have a feeling that Disney will quickly make it one week, or something like that, if only because putting autistic children in City Hall over and over again is going to go badly. Even I had a panic attack when waiting in there.

I hope Disneyland changes their mind on this one.

It the eyes of Disney your consider a day guest where at wdw they deal with more gear who stay longer. Not saying it right or it will last I also think after awhile they my extant it by a couple days. Or if your staying at one of their resort they give you longer. But sometimes it hard for Disney to understand that ap at Disneyland will go more then once a week and back to back. So that could be why they figure new one each time figuring you go maybe once a week or longer so it won't be so bad on you if you had to get new one each time.
 
I think/hope that it will be very short-lived - the majority of Disneyland guests are Annual Passholders. And there are people who go literally every single day, or several days a week, with profound or complex disabilities, including me. Also, a lot of us travel solo or a person with profound needs travel with only one person with them - so we need to actually wait in that line, in the sun or heat or rain or whatever. Going to City Hall every two weeks (what it once was for AP) was stressful enough.

I literally do not know if I can handle going to City Hall every day I am in the parks. It is very crowded, non-accessible... I have a feeling that Disney will quickly make it one week, or something like that, if only because putting autistic children in City Hall over and over again is going to go badly. Even I had a panic attack when waiting in there.

I hope Disneyland changes their mind on this one.
That may be something they have planned just for initial rollout that they will pull back on once the program has been in effect for a short time.

Especially at Disneyland, the 'tour guide' abuse was happening with mostly Annual Passholders. They may be wanting to put a stop to that very quickly and will pull back once they feel they have impacted that group of people.

I've also been told that getting a replacement DAS card will be much faster. First, if you've had one recently, the CM won't have as much explaining to do.
They will also be keeping information about cards issued - registering the guest (which I am very surprised they did not think to do before).
Because the guest is registered, they will have information about that person's DAS card available.
Some sources are saying the card will have a QR code printed on it that will allow the CMs re-issuing cards to access your picture and other information so a card can be very quickly reprinted.
 
If this is going in to effect next week, shouldn't they officially announce the new program, so those who need time to plan or practice can do so? It would be awful if someone showed up for vacation next week with a plan that they practiced (like social stories for example) only to get there and find out about this major overhaul. I could see it ruining vacations for some who don't deal well with change.
 
I have very good confirmation that guests with Annual Passes will need a new DAS card every day if they are local guests.

Wow. So even more standing around in line and time wasting. I do not feel good about these changes at all. Seems they are making things harder and not easier for some. :(
 


If this is going in to effect next week, shouldn't they officially announce the new program, so those who need time to plan or practice can do so? It would be awful if someone showed up for vacation next week with a plan that they practiced (like social stories for example) only to get there and find out about this major overhaul. I could see it ruining vacations for some who don't deal well with change.

I agree with you completely. Last Friday, I wrote an email to Disney and part of my concerns were preparing DS ahead of time to know what to expect since mostly we've heard rumor or speculation on how it was going to work.
 
If this is going in to effect next week, shouldn't they officially announce the new program, so those who need time to plan or practice can do so? It would be awful if someone showed up for vacation next week with a plan that they practiced (like social stories for example) only to get there and find out about this major overhaul. I could see it ruining vacations for some who don't deal well with change.

I agree this would make logical sense to most of us. However, Disney never officially released any information regarding GAC, so I would be highly surprised if they provided more detail than the vague announcement that hit national media last week or so. Hopefully, unless someone was living in a cocoon in late September, they at least heard rumors about a change -- it's been on national TV news, newspapers, radio, Internet -- pretty much everywhere. If they have an upcoming trip it would then be up to the guest to research further (as many do here).

Enjoy your vacation!
 
I would just like to chime in and let everyone know that Disney is supposed to be sending me a link later today to a site that they have created and will have up and running to explain the new system. I will share it when I have it, perhaps it will provide answers to some of the questions we all have.
 
I would just like to chime in and let everyone know that Disney is supposed to be sending me a link later today to a site that they have created and will have up and running to explain the new system. I will share it when I have it, perhaps it will provide answers to some of the questions we all have.

Excellent! Thanks! :thumbsup2
 
New link to DAS FAQs on Disney Parks Blog:

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/disney-parks-disability-access-service-card-fact-sheet/

Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment and accessible experiences for guests.
Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program, which provides access to attractions for guests with disabilities, so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. It will also help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.
The new Disability Access Service (DAS) Card will replace the Guest Assistance Card on Oct. 9. Guests at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort can request a Disability Access Service Card at Guest Relations. DAS Cardholders will receive a return time for attractions based on the current wait time.
Disney Parks has long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs. Guests can visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual situation, and Disney Parks will continue to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Disability Access Service Card and how does it work?

The DAS Card is designed to accommodate guests who arent able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations and will offer guests a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. As soon as the Guest finishes one attraction, they can receive a return time for another. This service can be used in addition to Disneys FASTPASS Service and Disney FastPass+ service.

What will Disney Parks do if a Guest is concerned the DAS Card doesnt meet their needs?
Disney Parks have long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs and will continue to work individually with guests with disabilities to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances. Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual needs.

Who will be eligible for a Disability Access Service Card?
Disney Parks goal is to accommodate guests who arent able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their assistance needs.

How will guests get a Disability Access Service Card?
A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations. Guests will participate in a registration process, which also includes having their photo taken.

Why is Disney Parks doing this?
Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. Disney Parks also hopes it will help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.

Does the DAS Cardholder have to be present to obtain a return time at an attraction?
No. Another member of the DAS Cardholders travel party may obtain a return time but the DAS Cardholder must board the attraction with his or her party.

Where do DAS Cardholders go to receive return times?
At Disneyland Resort, guests will go to Guest Relations kiosks located throughout the parks to receive a return time. At Walt Disney World Resort, guests will go to the attraction to receive a return time.
Does a DAS Cardholder have to ride the attraction at the exact return time listed?
No. Return times are valid until redeemed by the DAS Cardholder.

How long is a DAS Card valid?
A DAS card is valid for up to 14 days depending on a guests ticket entitlement.

Is a DAS Card issued at one Disney theme park valid at other Disney theme parks?
Yes, the card will be valid throughout the resort at which it was issued.

Why doesnt Disney Parks ask for proof of disability, such as a doctors note?
Disney Parks takes Guests at their word and there are legal restrictions around asking for proof.

Is this the only service available to Guests with disabilities?
Disney Parks offer a variety of services to guests with disabilities, such as Disneys Handheld Device that offers assistive listening, captioning and audio description. Additionally, Disney Parks has developed a Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities. This serves as a tool on how best to experience its theme parks and is expected to be available online by mid-October.

Disney Parks will continue to provide excellent guest service and accessible experiences. Guests should visit Guest Relations at any park should they feel they need assistance due to a disability.

Does a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter need a DAS Card?
No, a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter does not need a DAS Card. Depending on the attraction, the Guest will either wait in the standard queue or receive a return time at the attraction based on the current wait time. For some attractions at Disneyland Resort, these guests will go directly to an alternate entrance. Guests with additional needs should discuss them with Guest Relations.

Will Disney Parks continue to provide a service to wish-granting organizations?
The change will not affect those who are visiting on trips organized by wish granting organizations. There is a separate program for children with life-threatening illnesses.
 
New link to DAS FAQs on Disney Parks Blog:
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blo...rd-fact-sheet/

Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment and accessible experiences for guests.
Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program, which provides access to attractions for guests with disabilities, so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. It will also help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.
The new Disability Access Service (DAS) Card will replace the Guest Assistance Card on Oct. 9. Guests at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort can request a Disability Access Service Card at Guest Relations. DAS Cardholders will receive a return time for attractions based on the current wait time.
Disney Parks has long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs. Guests can visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual situation, and Disney Parks will continue to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Disability Access Service Card and how does it work?

The DAS Card is designed to accommodate guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations and will offer guests a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. As soon as the Guest finishes one attraction, they can receive a return time for another. This service can be used in addition to Disney’s FASTPASS Service and Disney FastPass+ service.

What will Disney Parks do if a Guest is concerned the DAS Card doesn’t meet their needs?
Disney Parks have long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs and will continue to work individually with guests with disabilities to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances. Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual needs.

Who will be eligible for a Disability Access Service Card?
Disney Parks’ goal is to accommodate guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their assistance needs.

How will guests get a Disability Access Service Card?
A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations. Guests will participate in a registration process, which also includes having their photo taken.

Why is Disney Parks doing this?
Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. Disney Parks also hopes it will help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.

Does the DAS Cardholder have to be present to obtain a return time at an attraction?
No. Another member of the DAS Cardholder’s travel party may obtain a return time but the DAS Cardholder must board the attraction with his or her party.

Where do DAS Cardholders go to receive return times?
At Disneyland Resort, guests will go to Guest Relations kiosks located throughout the parks to receive a return time. At Walt Disney World Resort, guests will go to the attraction to receive a return time.
Does a DAS Cardholder have to ride the attraction at the exact return time listed?
No. Return times are valid until redeemed by the DAS Cardholder.

How long is a DAS Card valid?
A DAS card is valid for up to 14 days depending on a guest’s ticket entitlement.

Is a DAS Card issued at one Disney theme park valid at other Disney theme parks?
Yes, the card will be valid throughout the resort at which it was issued.

Why doesn’t Disney Parks ask for proof of disability, such as a doctor’s note?
Disney Parks takes Guests at their word and there are legal restrictions around asking for proof.

Is this the only service available to Guests with disabilities?
Disney Parks offer a variety of services to guests with disabilities, such as Disney’s Handheld Device that offers assistive listening, captioning and audio description. Additionally, Disney Parks has developed a “Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities.” This serves as a tool on how best to experience its theme parks and is expected to be available online by mid-October.

Disney Parks will continue to provide excellent guest service and accessible experiences. Guests should visit Guest Relations at any park should they feel they need assistance due to a disability.

Does a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter need a DAS Card?
No, a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter does not need a DAS Card. Depending on the attraction, the Guest will either wait in the standard queue or receive a return time at the attraction based on the current wait time. For some attractions at Disneyland Resort, these guests will go directly to an alternate entrance. Guests with additional needs should discuss them with Guest Relations.

Will Disney Parks continue to provide a service to wish-granting organizations?
The change will not affect those who are visiting on trips organized by wish granting organizations. There is a separate program for children with life-threatening illnesses.

I was just coming here to share the same link!! :goodvibes

So it looks like according to this, AP holders will be able to get a DAS good for 2 weeks, just like they were issuing the last GACs for...
Based on this, DAS cards are going to be issued based on your ticket media and not based on whether you are staying on property or not....which really makes much better sense!! :thumbsup2
 
New link to DAS FAQs on Disney Parks Blog:

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/disney-parks-disability-access-service-card-fact-sheet/

Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment and accessible experiences for guests.
Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program, which provides access to attractions for guests with disabilities, so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. It will also help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.
The new Disability Access Service (DAS) Card will replace the Guest Assistance Card on Oct. 9. Guests at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort can request a Disability Access Service Card at Guest Relations. DAS Cardholders will receive a return time for attractions based on the current wait time.
Disney Parks has long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs. Guests can visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual situation, and Disney Parks will continue to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Disability Access Service Card and how does it work?

The DAS Card is designed to accommodate guests who arent able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations and will offer guests a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. As soon as the Guest finishes one attraction, they can receive a return time for another. This service can be used in addition to Disneys FASTPASS Service and Disney FastPass+ service.

What will Disney Parks do if a Guest is concerned the DAS Card doesnt meet their needs?
Disney Parks have long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs and will continue to work individually with guests with disabilities to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances. Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual needs.

Who will be eligible for a Disability Access Service Card?
Disney Parks goal is to accommodate guests who arent able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their assistance needs.

How will guests get a Disability Access Service Card?
A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations. Guests will participate in a registration process, which also includes having their photo taken.

Why is Disney Parks doing this?
Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. Disney Parks also hopes it will help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.

Does the DAS Cardholder have to be present to obtain a return time at an attraction?
No. Another member of the DAS Cardholders travel party may obtain a return time but the DAS Cardholder must board the attraction with his or her party.

Where do DAS Cardholders go to receive return times?
At Disneyland Resort, guests will go to Guest Relations kiosks located throughout the parks to receive a return time. At Walt Disney World Resort, guests will go to the attraction to receive a return time.
Does a DAS Cardholder have to ride the attraction at the exact return time listed?
No. Return times are valid until redeemed by the DAS Cardholder.

How long is a DAS Card valid?
A DAS card is valid for up to 14 days depending on a guests ticket entitlement.

Is a DAS Card issued at one Disney theme park valid at other Disney theme parks?
Yes, the card will be valid throughout the resort at which it was issued.

Why doesnt Disney Parks ask for proof of disability, such as a doctors note?
Disney Parks takes Guests at their word and there are legal restrictions around asking for proof.

Is this the only service available to Guests with disabilities?
Disney Parks offer a variety of services to guests with disabilities, such as Disneys Handheld Device that offers assistive listening, captioning and audio description. Additionally, Disney Parks has developed a Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities. This serves as a tool on how best to experience its theme parks and is expected to be available online by mid-October.

Disney Parks will continue to provide excellent guest service and accessible experiences. Guests should visit Guest Relations at any park should they feel they need assistance due to a disability.

Does a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter need a DAS Card?
No, a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter does not need a DAS Card. Depending on the attraction, the Guest will either wait in the standard queue or receive a return time at the attraction based on the current wait time. For some attractions at Disneyland Resort, these guests will go directly to an alternate entrance. Guests with additional needs should discuss them with Guest Relations.

Will Disney Parks continue to provide a service to wish-granting organizations?
The change will not affect those who are visiting on trips organized by wish granting organizations. There is a separate program for children with life-threatening illnesses.

Am I missing something? This sounds like the DAS is now going to be just a Fastpass. Complete with having to travel to each attraction to get a return time. Why the extra layer of having to have a picture taken?
 
Great information! Glad to hear that we won't have to go through the whole spiel every day at the parks at WDW - it will be so helpful to have it for length of stay.

There was definitely a concern for our family about having to go to the actual attraction to get a return time, so it's good to have it confirmed that a "runner" can do that piece. Our DD wouldn't understand why she's there but can't ride for 20, 30, 40 mins, etc.

We have MagicBands and have been able to use FastPass+ for our trip (6 days away!) but I'm not sure how FP+ will work with DD's feeding and hydration needs, or with her notoriously inconsistent sleep schedule. I'm guessing we'll be using a combination of FP+ and DAS, and anticipate being more selective about what rides/attractions we'll be able to fit in.

Anyone have any information as to whether there will still be accessible seating/roped off area for persons using wheelchairs or with disabilities for Illuminations or MK parades? On our previous trip, we felt that we got fewer stares and a kinder, more tolerant atmosphere in those sections...especially if DD was very "stimmy" or when we needed to give her her tube feedings. (She has a "stroller as wheelchair" tag due to her cerebral palsy, but also has Autism.)
 
I was just coming here to share the same link!! :goodvibes

So it looks like according to this, AP holders will be able to get a DAS good for 2 weeks, just like they were issuing the last GACs for...
Based on this, DAS cards are going to be issued based on your ticket media and not based on whether you are staying on property or not....which really makes much better sense!! :thumbsup2
Up to 2 weeks is a big change.
The first reports were daily for everyone, then up to 7 days and now up to 2 weeks. So, there were things still changing.
Since these items are published in their blog now, I don't think there will be any changes to what we published.

It does say up to 2 weeks, so that does not necessarily mean they will do AP for 2 weeks. They could still do daily for AP holders, either just to start with at both parks, or just at DL. That still fits in up to 2 weeks.
I know that DL was more of a concern with abuse of GACs than WDW was, so I guess we will see what the time is for AP holders.
(And, if it less than 2 weeks, I would not be surprised to see it quickly go up as they get comfortable that the tour group operators are not getting DAS cards.

Being based on ticket media was one of the 'proofs' of length of stay mentioned early on.
 
Am I missing something? This sounds like the DAS is now going to be just a Fastpass. Complete with having to travel to each attraction to get a return time. Why the extra layer of having to have a picture taken?
I'm guessing for a couple of reasons:
1) to have the program consistent with DL, which has a lot more attractions where entry for guests with disabilities is not Mainstream

2) the intent of the DAS is to meet the needs of the person with a disability so they can experience attractions. That person needs to ride (and sometimes wasn't). The picture on the card will be matched to the person.

3) a picture would be useful if someone does abuse, sell or use the DAS for commercial reasons. The person can't say they didn't know the rules or pass it off to someone else to use if their picture is on it and is on file.

4) it will be basically a one at a time, non-expiring Fastpass. Although some people with disabilities are feeling that might not meet their needs, there are people without disabilities who would still feel that is a benefit they want.
Great information! Glad to hear that we won't have to go through the whole spiel every day at the parks at WDW - it will be so helpful to have it for length of stay.

There was definitely a concern for our family about having to go to the actual attraction to get a return time, so it's good to have it confirmed that a "runner" can do that piece. Our DD wouldn't understand why she's there but can't ride for 20, 30, 40 mins, etc.

We have MagicBands and have been able to use FastPass+ for our trip (6 days away!) but I'm not sure how FP+ will work with DD's feeding and hydration needs, or with her notoriously inconsistent sleep schedule. I'm guessing we'll be using a combination of FP+ and DAS, and anticipate being more selective about what rides/attractions we'll be able to fit in.

Anyone have any information as to whether there will still be accessible seating/roped off area for persons using wheelchairs or with disabilities for Illuminations or MK parades? On our previous trip, we felt that we got fewer stares and a kinder, more tolerant atmosphere in those sections...especially if DD was very "stimmy" or when we needed to give her her tube feedings. (She has a "stroller as wheelchair" tag due to her cerebral palsy, but also has Autism.)
Those areas before were open to anyone with a visible need (such as mobility device) or anyone with a GAC -first come, first served and limited spots available.
There has been nothing those viewing spots, either in anything official or in any rumors at all.
My guess is that they will work it the same way - guests with visible need and those with DAS, first come, first serve.
 
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