Who Qualifies for Disney’s DAS ( Disability Access Service)
Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) is a service that allows guests with disabilities to participate in select attractions and experiences on a first-come, first-served basis. The goal of DAS is to provide a more inclusive and accessible experience for guests with disabilities. But who qualifies for DAS, and how does it work?
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for DAS, guests must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:
- Being a guest of a Disney hotel or resort, or a guest of a Disney Cruise Line
- Having a valid disability identification card or a letter from a healthcare provider explaining the disability
- Being at least 3 years older than the age of the child or adult participating in the attraction
- Providing a copy of the guest’s valid disability identification card or a letter from a healthcare provider explaining the disability
Types of Disabilities Eligible for DAS
DAS is designed to accommodate a wide range of disabilities, including:
- Mobility impairments, such as wheelchair accessibility
- Hearing impairments, such as deafness or hard-of-hearing accommodations
- Vision impairments, such as blindness or low vision
- Sensory impairments, such as visual or auditory processing disorders
- Other disabilities, such as physical disabilities or neurological disorders
How to Apply for DAS
To apply for DAS, guests must provide the necessary documentation to Disney’s Guest Services. This includes:
- A copy of the guest’s valid disability identification card or a letter from a healthcare provider explaining the disability
- A completed DAS Application Form
- Proof of residency at a Disney hotel or resort
- A copy of the guest’s Disney hotel or resort reservation
Guests can apply for DAS at any time, but it is recommended to do so as early as possible to ensure availability. Guests who apply for DAS on the same day as the scheduled event will be prioritized.
What to Expect on DAS Day
On DAS Day, guests will be required to present their DAS card and application form to the attraction host at the point of entry. Guests will be allowed to reserve a spot for DAS tickets in the standby queue, which will open at the scheduled time.
Reserving a Spot in the Standby Queue
To reserve a spot in the standby queue, guests must arrive at the attraction host’s desk before the scheduled opening time. The attraction host will verify the guest’s DAS card and application form, and if it is successful, the guest will be allowed to reserve a spot in the standby queue.
What Happens on DAS Day
On DAS Day, guests will be allowed to proceed to the attraction after checking in with the attraction host at the designated time. The DAS process typically begins around 20-30 minutes before the scheduled opening time.
What to Do During the DAS Process
During the DAS process, guests are required to follow a set of rules to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all guests. These include:
- Not using a mobile phone during the DAS process
- Not using headphones or earbuds
- Respecting other guests and the attraction host
- Not attempting to hide or avoid the attraction host
Exceptions to the DAS Process
While DAS is designed to provide a more inclusive and accessible experience for guests with disabilities, there may be exceptions to the DAS process. These include:
- Closed tickets: If a ticket is closed for maintenance or refurbishment, guests with DAS may be turned away at the point of entry.
- Voluntariness: Guests with disabilities may be turned away at the point of entry if they are deemed to be an unreasonable disruption to the operation of the attraction.
- Disability-related restrictions: Some attractions may not offer DAS tickets due to disability-related restrictions, such as proximity to special effects or heavy machinery.
Conclusion
Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) is a vital service that provides a more inclusive and accessible experience for guests with disabilities. By understanding the eligibility requirements, types of disabilities eligible for DAS, and how to apply for DAS, guests can make the most of their DAS experience and have a successful and enjoyable time at the attraction.