Buying AP tics ahead- Effective the day you buy or use?

[Bete]

If I buy my annual pass ticket ahead of our trip is it already against my one year time period when I buy it? or Does the clock start ticking only from the first day I use it?

I'm very confused about this aspect of buying ahead of time.

Do I get a voucher, a real ticket or what?

 

[Blackunicorn]

I think it depends on where you buy it. If you buy from the Disney store, I was told that you would get a voucher that you would have activated when you get there, making it good for one year from the day you arrive. I would definitely say, ask whomever you intend to buy from.

 

[iceskatejen]

If you buy it through the Disney Store (or online, I assume) you get a voucher that you activate the next time you go. After that, you can renew through the mail (they use your old picture), and if you do it that way, you get $20 off plus a 20% off coupon you can use on a $50 or more purchase (excluding certain items).

 

[minnieandmickey]

My Disney Store told me that I would have to have my AP activated within 30 days of purchase, could this be right?

 

[iceskatejen]

The last time I bought one at the Disney Store, I'm pretty sure the voucher/ticket (looks like a regular park ticket except for saying it's an annual pass) said 90 days, but this was 2001. I've renewed through the mail ever since. They may have changed the policy. My suggestion is to wait until you know when you're going then buy a few days before that.