DAS pass help

[MeganMango]

Hi all!


I'm going to WDW in 2 weeks with my dad. I go a few times a year but he hasn't been since he was a kid. He broke his foot a few years ago and is pretty overweight so he'll be renting a scooter.


How hard is it to obtain a DAS pass? I love my dad, but he's just s different person. It is NOT just the physical issues, he has mental/emotional ones too. Such as severe depression and anxiety. He's on disability here at home and does not work. Sleep disorder and a range of emotional issues. The sleep disorder makes it hard to do day to day things and spends most days in bed. I'm really worried if he doesn't explain why he needs a DAS pass, he'll be miserable and will refuse to go on rides with me due to not wanting to wait in line. (Not because he's impatient but can get very very angry and mean when he's uncomfortable.) He comes off fairly normal but likes to impress everyone he meets even though me (and the rest of his family) know his mental issues are pretty severe. I'll be the only one going with him.


How much will he have to explain to a cast member? Am I able to explain for him while he waits in another room? I'm afraid he'll try to play it off cool but truly am concerned for him waiting in a long line, getting mean and very angry, and leaving. I don't want him to feel humiliated or embarrassed, so what's the process?

 

[ErinsMommy]

I think your question may be better answered in the disabilities forum. With that said, I think even with a DAS pass there is still some waiting in line that will be involved. Good luck!

 

[MeganMango]

I think your question may be better answered in the disabilities forum. With that said, I think even with a DAS pass there is still some waiting in line that will be involved. Good luck!

thanks!

 

[ArwenMarie]

From what I understand, don't focus on the foot or the weight or the scooter. Those are mobility issues and they don't give a DAS for that. I think you will want to have a succinct explanation of what his psychiatric issue is and why that means he needs to wait outside of the line. If he has a diagnosis of something, just say that. I don't know if the depression would qualify but the severe anxiety might in terms of the enclosed lines. Good luck. You are a very sweet person to take your dad there. I hope you both have a good trip

 

[Verstehen]

We got a DAS for my sister on a trip we took a little over a week ago. This was our second time doing so. They do not ask you any question (maybe by law), and it is not hard to get one. We just went to Guest Services at our first park. Everyone who will be going on attractions with your father will need to be there, and they'll take a picture of him and scan his and everyone else's bands, but that's it.

It is NOT an instant front-of-the-line pass. Instead, what you will do is go to the attraction you want to utilize it on, and go up to the FP line and ask for a disability access. They will scan his band and tell you to come back based on the current wait time. So if the line is 60 minutes, they will usually tell you to come back in 50 minutes. You don't have to come back exactly at the assigned time; it can be any time after, but keep in mind you can only have one disability access at a time, so you'll need to use it before you get another one. It will also show up on your MDE app, which makes it easy to keep track of them! When you return to redeem it, make sure your father scans his band first.

My sister has a disability which makes it very difficult for her to walk for long periods of time or to even sit around in the heat, so this was a big help for us. We used it in conjunction with FP and ended up having a magical time during an otherwise very hot and humid time of year. It enabled her to relax, get something to eat, and get out of the sun for awhile.

 

[DisneyWishes14]

As others have said, they do not issue DAS for mobility issues as they have expanded the lines to accomodate wheelchairs and scooters. You will have to explain why he needs an alternative waiting area for the pass and he will need to be with you at guest services as they need to see there is an actual person who needs the pass and will take his picture if it is issued. Also know, the DAS is only good for one return time at a time (meaning, you can go over to Space Mountain, for instance, and get a return time and then will need to ride Space Mountain before you get a return time for another ride). It is best used in conjunction with FP+ so you can at least eliminate long lines with those three choices and use DAS to supplement the FP+. If you cannot obtain a DAS or if your father does not want to go to guest services in order to try to get one, my advice would be to book your 3 FP+ for late morning (try to get some rides in at RD, then use the FP+) and then go into the MDE app or the FP+ kiosks and make more FP+ as you go along depending on what is available. My DS9 has anxiety and has always had difficulty standing in long standby lines. He would rather not go on a ride at all than stand in the line as it makes him very nervous, so we tend to spread our park touring out over a few 1/2 days (meaning we'll do MK in two half days as opposed to one full day). It makes for a more relaxed touring plan and keeps his anxiety to a minimum. It also makes my day easier when he is comfortable and relaxed. We don't see a lot of the park on any given day, but I would rather have a more relaxed trip than one with a lot of stress. So, I guess my advice is, DAS or no DAS, try to plan your days in a way that makes it less stressful for all involved.

 

[Verstehen]

As others have said, they do not issue DAS for mobility issues as they have expanded the lines to accomodate wheelchairs and scooters.

From my experience, having used DAS on two trips with the same person, they don't even ask you why you need one. I honestly don't think they can, by law. The fact that you can only have one at a time and that it does not allow you to just go directly to the front seems to have eliminated the need for guests to "prove" they need one. When my sister was younger (and her illness was more severe), we did have a note from the doctor that allowed us to skip the lines in every instance as long as we were with her, but I think they have done away with that option for the most part. Just because you're in a wheelchair does not mean you can withstand a long line if the line can accommodate it. For example, the Haunted Mansion line is in the open air completely. She could not sit for a long period of time in that.

 

[wilkeliza]

From my experience, having used DAS on two trips with the same person, they don't even ask you why you need one. I honestly don't think they can, by law. The fact that you can only have one at a time and that it does not allow you to just go directly to the front seems to have eliminated the need for guests to "prove" they need one. When my sister was younger (and her illness was more severe), we did have a note from the doctor that allowed us to skip the lines in every instance as long as we were with her, but I think they have done away with that option for the most part. Just because you're in a wheelchair does not mean you can withstand a long line if the line can accommodate it. For example, the Haunted Mansion line is in the open air completely. She could not sit for a long period of time in that.

They are actually suppose to ask and nothing in the law prevents them from asking what accommodation you are seeking and why you need such accommodation they just can't ask for a diagnosis of condition. A note from a doctor is never required as each person's diagnosis can mean different things (i.e. some children with autism can wait in line but just need a stroller as wheelchair tag while other children with autism do indeed need somewhere else to wait). It seems you got lucky both times. You don't have to prove a need but you are suppose to ask for accommodation and why you need the accommodation. The 2nd time you got a DAS is probably no questions asked because your sister has already had one and it is just considered a renewal. If she had the GAC is is possible that was already on file and by inputting her information they saw that and that is why you had no need to answer questions.

 

[bumbershoot]

From my experience, having used DAS on two trips with the same person, they don't even ask you why you need one. I honestly don't think they can, by law.

They need to know what accommodations you need. They can ask that if you're not telling them up front. What they don't and can't care about is the diagnosis. Yet just need to know what you need.

They are going to have to explain what her dad needs, because otherwise they'll see the wheelchair and just point him to the line (no das for mobility issues...they just have you get a wheelchair or scooter and go in the normal lines). Since he needs accommodations for things other than his mobility, the op and her dad have to figure out what that will be and then tell the CMs that.

 

[ArwenMarie]

They need to know what accommodations you need. They can ask that if you're not telling them up front. What they don't and can't care about is the diagnosis. Yet just need to know what you need.

They are going to have to explain what her dad needs, because otherwise they'll see the wheelchair and just point him to the line (no das for mobility issues...they just have you get a wheelchair or scooter and go in the normal lines). Since he needs accommodations for things other than his mobility, the op and her dad have to figure out what that will be and then tell the CMs that.

I didn't know that they don't care about the diagnosis.
So what if you say "I need an accommodation to not wait in the line"?
Is that all you have to say?

 

[Verstehen]

Ah, okay. It's possible that we did explain the need to the first cast member we spoke to. It was several years ago. But if they had asked we would have said something like, "She's unable to sit in the heat for long periods of time." Good luck, op!

 

[wilkeliza]

I didn't know that they don't care about the diagnosis.
So what if you say "I need an accommodation to not wait in the line"?
Is that all you have to say?

You have to say why it just doesn't have to be a diagnosis. We can't give scripts here so I wouldn't know how to put it with out it being a script. It can't just be I need an accommodation not to wait in line or everyone would just go in and ask.

 

[DWillowBay]

The thing to remember is that there will still be a line. You will still be in the heat....or rain...or wind... You are given a time to return and when you do, you will assume your position in the FP line along with everyone else. If that line is long, you will be there a while. When they first made the changes, I thought it would be difficult, but I have to admit, this is a great system for my son.

 

[HopperFan]

As others have said, they do not issue DAS for mobility issues as they have expanded the lines to accomodate wheelchairs and scooters. You will have to explain why he needs an alternative waiting area for the pass and he will need to be with you at guest services as they need to see there is an actual person who needs the pass and will take his picture if it is issued. Also know, the DAS is only good for one return time at a time (meaning, you can go over to Space Mountain, for instance, and get a return time and then will need to ride Space Mountain before you get a return time for another ride). It is best used in conjunction with FP+ so you can at least eliminate long lines with those three choices and use DAS to supplement the FP+. If you cannot obtain a DAS or if your father does not want to go to guest services in order to try to get one, my advice would be to book your 3 FP+ for late morning (try to get some rides in at RD, then use the FP+) and then go into the MDE app or the FP+ kiosks and make more FP+ as you go along depending on what is available. My DS9 has anxiety and has always had difficulty standing in long standby lines. He would rather not go on a ride at all than stand in the line as it makes him very nervous, so we tend to spread our park touring out over a few 1/2 days (meaning we'll do MK in two half days as opposed to one full day). It makes for a more relaxed touring plan and keeps his anxiety to a minimum. It also makes my day easier when he is comfortable and relaxed. We don't see a lot of the park on any given day, but I would rather have a more relaxed trip than one with a lot of stress. So, I guess my advice is, DAS or no DAS, try to plan your days in a way that makes it less stressful for all involved.

They are actually suppose to ask and nothing in the law prevents them from asking what accommodation you are seeking and why you need such accommodation they just can't ask for a diagnosis of condition. A note from a doctor is never required as each person's diagnosis can mean different things (i.e. some children with autism can wait in line but just need a stroller as wheelchair tag while other children with autism do indeed need somewhere else to wait). It seems you got lucky both times. You don't have to prove a need but you are suppose to ask for accommodation and why you need the accommodation. The 2nd time you got a DAS is probably no questions asked because your sister has already had one and it is just considered a renewal. If she had the GAC is is possible that was already on file and by inputting her information they saw that and that is why you had no need to answer questions.

Both very accurate explanations, coming from someone who has an immediate family member who has used the GAC/DAS program for 12+ years.

No, they don't just give them to anyone who asks.
Yes, be prepared to explain why he can not wait in the standby line.
No, there is not another room he can stay in, he needs to be there.
Yes, they will take his photograph and put his info in a computer.
Yes, he needs to be prepared for this process since he needs to be there.
Yes, anyone who will be attached to his DAS (IF he gets one) will need to have their ticket/MB scanned.
No, not everyone gets one.
Yes, be prepared for someone to go TO attraction to get a return time.
Yes, he MUST be riding, he will actually have to scan first to activate the others entry.
No, you can not be early but they will never expire until the end of the day.
Yes, you can only have one at a time.
Yes, planning is very important, as is the use of FP+, for someone who needs a DAS.
No, the old way never was front of the line pass.
Yes, you will have to wait in the FP+ line on return, and some rides that is even long, but usually he can bring his scooter.

No one here can tell you if they will give him one, so be prepared either way.

I didn't know that they don't care about the diagnosis.
So what if you say "I need an accommodation to not wait in the line"?
Is that all you have to say?

If you say that - you will not get one. You have to be very clear in the reasons why you can not wait in the line. The CM will then decide if those issues can be addressed in another way. Say you have a bum knee and so while you can walk no issues, standing in long lines is hard. You do not qualify since your issue can be addressed with a mobility device that allows you to sit in lines, even if you just push it or park it in the park.

Lots more info is on the FAQ on the DISABILITIES board but since it is sitting here, to anyone reading, no it's not just handed out, yes there are very specific reasons for giving them and if your issue can be addressed in other ways - be prepared for a no. And sometimes folks are concerned about issues that just aren't there as most lines are indoors or covered with fans, not baking outside.

 

[DisneyOma]

Hi all!


I'm going to WDW in 2 weeks with my dad. I go a few times a year but he hasn't been since he was a kid. He broke his foot a few years ago and is pretty overweight so he'll be renting a scooter.


How hard is it to obtain a DAS pass? I love my dad, but he's just s different person. It is NOT just the physical issues, he has mental/emotional ones too. Such as severe depression and anxiety. He's on disability here at home and does not work. Sleep disorder and a range of emotional issues. The sleep disorder makes it hard to do day to day things and spends most days in bed. I'm really worried if he doesn't explain why he needs a DAS pass, he'll be miserable and will refuse to go on rides with me due to not wanting to wait in line. (Not because he's impatient but can get very very angry and mean when he's uncomfortable.) He comes off fairly normal but likes to impress everyone he meets even though me (and the rest of his family) know his mental issues are pretty severe. I'll be the only one going with him.


How much will he have to explain to a cast member? Am I able to explain for him while he waits in another room? I'm afraid he'll try to play it off cool but truly am concerned for him waiting in a long line, getting mean and very angry, and leaving. I don't want him to feel humiliated or embarrassed, so what's the process?

Just following the "rules" and quoting the OP to have it set.

We got a DAS for my sister on a trip we took a little over a week ago. This was our second time doing so. They do not ask you any question (maybe by law), and it is not hard to get one. We just went to Guest Services at our first park. Everyone who will be going on attractions with your father will need to be there, and they'll take a picture of him and scan his and everyone else's bands, but that's it.

It is NOT an instant front-of-the-line pass. Instead, what you will do is go to the attraction you want to utilize it on, and go up to the FP line and ask for a disability access. They will scan his band and tell you to come back based on the current wait time. So if the line is 60 minutes, they will usually tell you to come back in 50 minutes. You don't have to come back exactly at the assigned time; it can be any time after, but keep in mind you can only have one disability access at a time, so you'll need to use it before you get another one. It will also show up on your MDE app, which makes it easy to keep track of them! When you return to redeem it, make sure your father scans his band first.

My sister has a disability which makes it very difficult for her to walk for long periods of time or to even sit around in the heat, so this was a big help for us. We used it in conjunction with FP and ended up having a magical time during an otherwise very hot and humid time of year. It enabled her to relax, get something to eat, and get out of the sun for awhile.

So, if she can't walk for long periods of time, how does she get around the parks, where one can walk miles each day? And how did she handle the heat outside of the attractions? Luckily, most WDW attraction queues are shaded, with fans, and have great AC in the indoor part. I'm not sure why they gave her a DAS since her issues are mobility based, and DAS is not for mobility issues. I think you got lucky.

From my experience, having used DAS on two trips with the same person, they don't even ask you why you need one. I honestly don't think they can, by law. The fact that you can only have one at a time and that it does not allow you to just go directly to the front seems to have eliminated the need for guests to "prove" they need one. When my sister was younger (and her illness was more severe), we did have a note from the doctor that allowed us to skip the lines in every instance as long as we were with her, but I think they have done away with that option for the most part. Just because you're in a wheelchair does not mean you can withstand a long line if the line can accommodate it. For example, the Haunted Mansion line is in the open air completely. She could not sit for a long period of time in that.

The doctor's note should not have been considered. Doctors have been known to write some pretty outrageous things for their patients going to WDW, thinking that they have the power to do so. It's one of the reasons WDW got rid of the GAC - it was overused.

Haunted mansion queue is now covered for the most part, with fans. WDW is learning.

Ah, okay. It's possible that we did explain the need to the first cast member we spoke to. It was several years ago. But if they had asked we would have said something like, "She's unable to sit in the heat for long periods of time." Good luck, op!

If it was several years ago, are you sure it was a DAS and not a GAC?