On May 20, major changes were made to Disney’s Disability Access Service, or DAS pass. Disney’s DAS pass is a program that was designed to accommodate guests and families with disabilities.
The recent changes to the DAS pass have sparked controversy among guests that have previously used the pass for a long time. Many have argued that it is now harder to get the help and services disabled families need to truly enjoy the parks.
The DAS pass was initially introduced to help guests that couldn’t endure long wait times because of physical, cognitive, or psychological conditions. The pass allowed such guests to hold their place in line virtually while they enjoyed other areas of the park or rest.
In 2024, however, Disney made multiple changes to the DAS pass. These changes primarily focus on the application and approval process for the DAS pass. Before these changes, guests could register for the DAS pass either online or in person at guests services with minimal questioning.
Now, however, it is much harder for guests to get approved for the DAS pass. Disney requires more detailed documentation for proof of disability, such as a doctor’s letter or medical records. Furthermore, the documentation must prove that they are specifically unable to wait in a traditional line, not just their disability.
Another major change that has taken place regarding the DAS pass was Disney’s new renewal criteria. Previously, guests who used the DAS pass in the past were automatically eligible for renewal. However, they must now reapply with updated medical records that prove that they continue to be unable to stand in lines. This is very troublesome especially for guests who have disabilities that are lifelong and rarely change.
The new system and changes to the DAS pass has sparked much frustration and disappointment from guests with disabilities. The changes have made it exceedingly harder to obtain the DAS pass
In addition, the increased emphasis on documentation and proof of their disability might feel invasive and dismissive to some of the guests who have lived with their disability.
The changes to the application might also actually discourage many guests from applying altogether, either because they fear they will not be believed or that the process of applying will be too lengthy and stressful.
Additionally, because it takes longer for Disney to read and approve the extensive documentation, there are longer wait times for approval, which may make it harder for families to plan trips.
While Disney most likely reformed the application and approval process of the DAS pass to prevent misuse of the pass, it has actually made people with disabilities feel like they cannot access the pass as easily.
As a result of this new harder application process, many guests feel discouraged to apply for a DAS pass, which makes the Disney magical experience less accessible to people with disabilities.