APs & Handstamps

[94bruin]

We are newly minted AP holders.

One issue that came up while we were at the parks last week. When we were re-entering the parks, we showed our handstamps. It was our first re-entry for the trip, so I didn't realize/forgot that we needed to show a ticket in order to re-enter with the handstamp. So I pull out our APs, and then the CM tells me that since we have APs, we do NOT need to get handstamps to re-enter.

Fast-forward 24 or 36 hours. We're hopping from DL to DCA. We don't bother to get a handstamp when we exit DL. When we try to enter DCA, the CM tells us that we should have gotten a handstamp - even though we are AP holders.

We are planning a trip back in January and want to get it right. We don't really get why we would need handstamps to re-enter. As an AP holder, I can enter whenever I want, right? Why bother with a handstamp?

 

[mrsxsparrow]

We are newly minted AP holders.

One issue that came up while we were at the parks last week. When we were re-entering the parks, we showed our handstamps. It was our first re-entry for the trip, so I didn't realize/forgot that we needed to show a ticket in order to re-enter with the handstamp. So I pull out our APs, and then the CM tells me that since we have APs, we do NOT need to get handstamps to re-enter.

Fast-forward 24 or 36 hours. We're hopping from DL to DCA. We don't bother to get a handstamp when we exit DL. When we try to enter DCA, the CM tells us that we should have gotten a handstamp - even though we are AP holders.

We are planning a trip back in January and want to get it right. We don't really get why we would need handstamps to re-enter. As an AP holder, I can enter whenever I want, right? Why bother with a handstamp?

The handstamp issue was probably due to the large crowds last week. Normally, as an AP holder, you do NOT need a handstamp. However, when the crowds get very large, they start restricting entry -- then, they'll only allow you to re-enter WITH a handstamp.

It shouldn't be an issue in January. Like I said it only happens with the large crowds around Christmas and New Years, and sometimes over the summer (expecially 4th of July).

 

[raftislander]

This is what I've been told by CMs There are some days that get so crowded that, by the afternoon, they will allow re-entry, but not entry. Then you need a handstamp even if an AP holder. Usually the cast members are very good on those days at announcing that everyone should get a handstamp. I usually get a handstamp just because it cant hurt.

 

[94bruin]

This is what I've been told by CMs There are some days that get so crowded that, by the afternoon, they will allow re-entry, but not entry. Then you need a handstamp even if an AP holder. Usually the cast members are very good on those days at announcing that everyone should get a handstamp. I usually get a handstamp just because it cant hurt.

Makes sense, but doesn't it show up on their computer that we are re-entering for the day? NOt that I'm arguing with you - I took a peek at the computer and it said re-entry. I'm assuming that meant we were re-entering the parks on the same day. It just seems superfluous to get a handstamp, when the computer says that we are re-entering.

Well, if we go when it's busy, I'll make sure to get a handstamp, but I probably won't bother in January.

 

[figment_jii]

When we were there in September we also heard it both ways. It kind of seemed like it depended on the CM at the re-entry gate. We opted to get hand stamps just to be safe.

 

[starshine514]

...we also heard it both ways. It kind of seemed like it depended on the CM at the re-entry gate. We opted to get hand stamps just to be safe.

^this. I was told handstamp not required before, but was told we needed to get them when we were there last week. We normally get them anyway, simply because my girls like them. We just don't show them on re-entry since we have the APs.

 

[pixiewings71]

Makes sense, but doesn't it show up on their computer that we are re-entering for the day? NOt that I'm arguing with you - I took a peek at the computer and it said re-entry. I'm assuming that meant we were re-entering the parks on the same day. It just seems superfluous to get a handstamp, when the computer says that we are re-entering.

Well, if we go when it's busy, I'll make sure to get a handstamp, but I probably won't bother in January.

yes it does show re-entry, also when you re-enter the turnstiles makes a different sound. I've been an AP holder for a few years now (with a break in between and a break coming up) and we rarely need to get handstamps. If/when they want you to get them there will be a sign up as you exit the park(s) indicating you will need one. I still don't understand why, as an AP holder your photo pops up on the screen and the entry sound is different so it's obvious you have been in the parks before.......

 

[disneychrista]

My rule of thumb...always get a hand stamp, AP or not. Better be safe than sorry.

 

[Malcon10t]

They usually have signs out when APs need handstamps. We usually need them at Christmas time and around the 4th of July, but rarely the rest of the year.

 

[Eeee-va]

As I was leaving DCA one afternoon, the Cast Member told me that there was magic in the ink that will make everything in your life better. So I think it's probably best to get stamped, just in case.

(Actually, I really do always like getting them. I haven't had an AP in a while but even if I've hopped 3 or 4 times that day I still get stamped!)