Disability

[DonnaBoo]

Does universal have the same or similar policy as Disney? Will they put you to the front of the line if you are disabled ? Or maybe help to cut down on some of the wait time?

 

[macraven]

you would go to guest services and discuss the need for a GAP with them.

they issue cards that are signed by the TM at the ride.
if the line wait is under 30 minutes, you are let in thru the express line.
if the present ride wait time is over 30 minutes, they write down your return time.

i don't remember the exact formula they use but something alone the lines of length of wait time when you are there with the card, minus 1/2? of the time from the total.
if line wait is 60 minutes your return time is within a 30 minute time period.
i could be off on the numbers they use but it does cut the wait time down to when you can return for the ride.

you can only have one ride listed at a time.
can't stack the rides.
hth

 

[chmurf]

Mac got most of it

But there are 2 different assistance services at Universal

what Mac described is AAP (Attractions Assistance Pass)
and it does indeed get you immediatly through the express line if the wait time is less than 30 minutes (but the TM have the final say. They may not grant immediate access even if it's under 30 minutes, depending on operationnal considerations)
if the wait time is over 30 minutes, you'll be given a return time based on the current standby time, minus a fraction of that time.

AAP is designed for guests with non visible disabilities. You'll need to discuss your issues with a TM at guest relations
it's valid for 14 consecutive days.

The GAP (Guest Assistance Pass) is a whole different story.
It comes in very, very limited amounts, and is very hard to get. It's designed for those for whom the AAP will not be sufficient.
the GAP is basically a 1 day/2 parks unlimited express pass. It will work like the express pass you can purchase or get by being a deluxe onsite hotel guest.
there are 3 main limitations
- it's very hard to get
- it needs to be renewed every day (see point above re: hard to get)
- it works like an express pass, meaning this won"t get you front of the line (aka express line) for the main Harry Potter rides. (those that don't have an express lines)

 

[macraven]

I ve had the gap and it had to be renewed daily

But that was the only difference of the two

Wasn't difficult to get

 

[dsmom]

I ve had the gap and it had to be renewed daily

But that was the only difference of the two

Wasn't difficult to get

Hi Mac, not sure if they have changed it or not. We were there in December and got one for David and you're right, it was no problem to get it. They asked how long we were staying and I told her five nights and she made the pass for six days. Maybe we got lucky and got a very nice person helping us?

 

[macraven]

They will do a length of stay if you request

Or they can do visuals and lists the pass valid for your entire stay

There really is a lot of flexibility with the tm's at guest service

They do not have the policy of one size fits all as Disney has done

 

[keishashadow]

I was waiting in line @ GS inside park due to issue during Mardi Gras. They had a TM stationed there asking as to one's 'needs' with people being directed into separate lines inside.

Be aware that the pass doesn't seem to be given out freely i.e. without merit, as a guest at window was raising quite a ruckus/berating the TM and swearing up a storm. This, after being denied for disability pass for family member. it got to point where they were escorted out of the area. Mgr then explained situation & apologized to those waiting in line.