Reapplying for DAS after success last year

[ellindea]

Hey everyone,
I'm going to Disneyland again this year and will be reapplying to DAS. I was successful in getting it last year (complex condition/needs, not a developmental disability), and first, I want to thank you all for the details, replies, and information! Especially helpful was knowing that if you called while already at the park, you got through right away. I did this the second day of my tip after never getting through at home and trying the first day without it, and that saved our trip! It was also really helpful to know what to expect, so thank you again! My questions now are -- are you more likely to be approved if you already were once under the new system? Do they keep any kind of record?

 

[OurBigTrip]

I'm sure they keep a record of those previously approved, but I've read many accounts, some here, of not being approved even if the guest was already approved under the new system.

 

[AnneK]

No. The denial rate of those previously approved is rising every day according to feedback. Good luck.

 

[ellindea]

Ugh, this is already so stressful. Any tips? I'm hoping the fact that I tried a day without DAS last year and it went terribly will help. I was literally only able to get on one ride all day. It would've been two, but the ride broke down and then it was time to find a spot for fireworks. Even 2 rides, though, is really not good.

 

[Evita_W]

Honestly, this is a problem, just be prepared with a backup plan if you are denied. I hate to suggest it, but if you are insistent on going to Disney, a good backup plan is buying Lightning Lane. Now, at Disneyland itself, many of the attractions do not have accessible queues, so if you have a mobility device, you can get location return times at many attractions. Also, if you want to do Finding Nemo, you can ask for the alternate viewing room at the Lightning Lane Entrance and not usually need to wait in the long line. We find we prefer the alternate viewing anyway, you get a better view, more comfortable seating and if necessary can leave midway through.

Now, if you aren't stuck on Disney, both Universal and Knott's Berry Farm treat their disabled guests much better, but you do need the IBCCES card, which is free to get. Just know that at Universal, if you are using an ECV, you will need to transfer to a manual chair for most queues.