Disneyland Makes Big Changes to Its Disability Services

Disney prides itself on being a place where everyone can come and have a magical day — regardless of any disabilities they may have. Disney offers an array of Disability Access Services (DAS) for Guests — from those with cognitive disabilities to those Guests who may just need a wheelchair or electric scooter to get around the Parks for the day. Disneyland Resort has recently made some changes to its DAS program, following in the footsteps of Disneyland Paris and the Walt Disney World Resort.

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On December 8, Disneyland Resort introduced Disney Genie+ to both Disneyland and California Adventure, although the launch was anything but smooth. Disney Genie+ allows Guests to book Lightning Lane access for numerous rides throughout the day at both Parks for the cost of $20 per day, per person, right from their phone. It is very similar to the MaxPass program that had been in place for three years at Disneyland before the pandemic shutdown, during which time Disney eliminated the program.

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With the ability to book Lightning Lane passes on the Disneyland app, Disney has made a similar change that will be coming to its disability services in just under two weeks. The Disneyland Resort website states the following on its website:

Eligible Guests visiting the parks on or after December 20, 2021 can now pre-register for DAS Advance virtually with a Cast Member, using live video chat. Please note that you may pre-register as soon as 30 days in advance of a park visit, but no less than 2 days before arrival.   

During the registration chat, you will be able to work with a Cast Member to book up to 2 one-hour return windows for select experiences—subject to availability—using our new DAS Advance planning option (in addition to the normal benefits of the DAS program). Please note that all park visits must be within 30 to 2 days of the live chat.

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Disney is working hard to make things easier for those Guests who require more assistance during their time in the Parks. What makes these changes particularly helpful is that, like Disney Genie, booking return times with the DAS pass can be done straight from the Guest’s phone. Before, Guests would have to visit City Hall when they arrived at the Parks, then head to the attractions to receive their return times, and everything would have to be done in person. The changes coming to the DAS program mean that families can enjoy their day the second they step through the gates because everything is already taken care of.

What do you think of the changes coming to Disneyland’s DAS program? Do you think this will make things easier for Guests?