An Update from Leap: Starting from July 24, 2023, Universal has a new system for registering people with non-physical disabilities. You can register for the free IBCCES Accessibility Card (IAC) online at AccessibilityCard.org. Or you can register via the free IBCCES Accessibility Card mobile app, available for download on both Apple and Google Play stores. This is the same system that Six Flags uses, and the registration is good for one year at various theme parks that use the IAC. You can register up to 48 hours before your trip and talk to a team member about your accommodations before you arrive. If you use a wheelchair for mobility, you do not need to register, as the queues are accessible.
If you've used the Universal Orlando Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP) before, be aware that as of July 24, 2023, Universal has updated its accommodations request process for guests with non-mobility-related disabilities and illnesses. Now, guests whose disabilities prevent them from waiting in a standard queue must obtain an International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) at least 48 hours before their visit.
This is a big shift from setting it up in the park, so you'll need to plan ahead. But don’t worry — we frogs are here to guide you through the process! Hopefully, this makes things easier and removes any stress about securing accommodations on the day of your visit since everything is handled in advance. Plus, once you have the IAC, it’s valid for a year. Here’s what you need to know.
Most of the below information applies to Universal Studios Hollywood as well, but there are some slight differences. The attractions do vary. If you are heading to Tinseltown, hop over to our overview of the Universal Studios Hollywood Attraction Assistance Pass for the most up-to-date information about that park and its attractions.
Overview of the Universal Orlando Attraction Assistance Pass — Now IBCCES Accessibility Card
How Do I Register?
You can register for the free IBCCES Accessibility Card (IAC) online at AccessibilityCard.org or through the IBCCES Accessibility Card mobile app, available in the Apple and Google Play stores. Guests must be at least 18 to apply for their own IAC, while those under 18 will need a parent or legal guardian to register for them.
When Should I Register?
Complete your IAC registration at least 48 hours before you visit Universal Orlando Resort. When you arrive, present your IAC number to the Guest Services team. If you’re visiting during Halloween Horror Nights, be sure to register in advance to access IAC benefits for the event.
What if I Don't Register in Time for my Visit?
If you can’t complete your registration in advance, reach out to the Universal Orlando Guest Services team or visit any Guest Services location inside the park for assistance. You'll find Guest Services just to the right before the park's turnstiles.
What Information Do I Need for IAC Registration?
The IAC requires the following information to register the person requiring attraction queue accommodations:
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- A recent photograph of the cardholder for identification purposes.
- Contact information for the cardholder or the parent/guardian/support person of the cardholder.
- Contact information along with a statement from a medical provider, government entity, or educational support professional on the accommodations being requested.
After registering, you’ll need to speak with Universal by phone before your visit. If you don’t receive a call from them, be sure to reach out to discuss your accommodations. Keep an eye on your email — if they can’t reach you, they may send your case number and a phone number to call. A team member will go over your options with you.
Here are the steps:
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- Complete the registration.
- Print or store your IAC card digitally.
- Talk to Universal on the phone and get a case number (check your email).
- Upon entering the park, take the IAC and case number to Guest Services to receive the available accommodations.
Does Registering for IAC Guarantee Specific Accommodations?
The IAC does not guarantee specific queue accommodations at Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure. Once you qualify for an IBCCES Individual Accessibility Card, a Universal team member will contact you to discuss attraction queue accommodations before your visit. If you don’t receive a call, be sure to reach out to Universal at 407-224-4233. A team member will assess your needs and determine how they can assist you. When you arrive, you’ll still need to visit Guest Services to present your IAC and pick up the AAP card.
How Often Do I Need to Register for IAC?
The IAC is valid for one year, and you'll need to reapply annually for a new card. One of the biggest benefits of this system is that the IAC can be used at other participating IBCCES locations, including Universal Studios Hollywood and select Six Flags parks. If you’re a frequent visitor or an annual passholder, having an IAC will save you time. Here is a full list of current IAC participating locations.
Do I Get a Physical Card?
The card is available as a digital download, but you can also print it. If you lose the printed card, simply log into your IAC registration to reprint or download it at any time.
What if I Have Questions About the IAC?
Call 877-717-6543 to connect with a representative from IBCCES.
How Does the Universal Attraction Assistance Pass Work?
Once you receive the new IAC and talk to a team member on the phone, you'll pick up a paper AAP card at Guest Services when you arrive at the park. The AAP still works pretty much the same with some small changes. The AAP card is a special card that helps guests who find it difficult to wait in a standard queue. People with disabilities and certain health issues can use the card to get return times at a ride. They can wait outside the queue and return when it's time to come back.
How Many Guests May Accompany the Party Member Who is Using the AAP?
The maximum party size depends on the park issuing the AAP and may have changed since your last visit. In Orlando, up to five guests may accompany the AAP user, for a maximum party size of six. If you are Hollywood-bound, visit our overview of the Universal Studios Hollywood Attraction Assistance Pass for more specific information about that park.
I've Received the AAP. What's Next?
Keep your card with you and head to the entrance of your first attraction. When you arrive, hand the card to the attendant. They’ll note your arrival time, the current wait time for the ride and your return time. Your total wait will be roughly equal to the current wait time, but you might notice that your return time may be a bit shorter than the actual wait time. Once you enter the alternate queue, you may have a short wait before loading, which the team member factors in when determining your return time.
When you return to the ride, the attendant will mark off your return time, and you can collect a new one after exiting the ride.
What Happens if the Posted Wait Time is More Than 30 Minutes?
The card does not grant immediate or Express access to the ride, nor does it allow you to skip the wait. Instead, it lets you wait in a designated area of your choice and then access the correct line based on your needs. Depending on the wait time for that ride, the attendant may either direct you to the appropriate queue immediately or provide a return time for later.
If the posted wait time is less than 30 minutes, generally you’ll be directed to the alternate queue right away. If it’s 30 minutes or more, the attendant will provide you with a return time. When that time arrives, you’ll return to the attraction and be directed through the alternate queue by a team member.
What Should I Do While I Wait for My Turn to Ride?
While waiting for your return time, you can explore the park in other ways. Ride an attraction with a shorter wait, catch a show or grab a bite to eat. If you need a break, find a shady spot to rest and recharge. There are two Family Health Services locations. At Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, you'll find it near the front of the park.
Can I Have More Than One Attraction Return Time Listed on My AAP?
No, you are only allowed one attraction return time on the pass. You have to use or forfeit your current reservation if you decide to get another one. However, if you don't need a return time because the posted wait time at an attraction is less than 30 minutes, then you can still experience that attraction without losing your return time for a different attraction.
There may be rare exceptions to this rule, however. For example, at Universal Studios Florida, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts can get long lines (over two hours at times). If you have a return time for that ride and the line is quite long, a ride attendant may allow you to obtain another return time in the meantime before you have used the original ride's return time.
What if the Park is Extremely Busy and Crowded and I'm Always Waiting for Return Times?
Unfortunately, this will most likely happen if you go during peak times. We recommend also purchasing a Universal Express Pass. (Psst ... we now sell discounted Universal Express Passes!) Hop over to our guide to using Universal Express Pass for more hopful information on this pass. While you're waiting for your AAP return time for one attraction, you can use the Express Pass (at those attractions that offer it). This minimizes your time waiting in line.
Keep in mind, if you're staying on-site at a premier Universal Orlando hotel (Loews Portofino Bay, Universal's Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific), then you'll receive Universal Express Unlimited Passes for each registered guest as part of your hotel package. Guests who stay on-site at any of the Universal Orlando resorts (all of the above, including Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls, Aventura Hotel, Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites) receive one hour of Early Park Admission for select attractions at Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Volcano Bay. Undercover Tourist now offers discounts on rooms at all Universal Orlando hotels!
Guests who purchase a Vacation Package for Universal Studios Hollywood can enter the park up to 30 minutes early. You can check the park's early park admission status and attractions for Universal Orlando here. Plus, we've got hop tips on how to maximize your time at Universal Orlando in this post.
You should still use Universal's Attraction Assistance Pass for those attractions that do not offer Universal Express, which includes Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Universal Islands of Adventure. Using Single Rider lines is another time-saving option!
What if We Are Late for Our Return Time?
If you are late for your return time, no sweat. They will still let you in. The time is good until you use it or end of day.
What if Our Child Uses the Stroller as a Wheelchair?
While you are at Guest Services to talk about AAP, be sure to have your stroller documented as a wheelchair. That will allow you to take the stroller into queues that are accessible for wheelchairs.
What if the Attraction Assistance Pass Doesn't Meet Our Needs?
The AAP should cover most needs. If it is not working for you, speak with a supervisor at Guest Services. Discuss your needs and explain why AAP isn't working for your family. A supervisor may be able to assist you further with a Guest Assistance Pass (GAP). With GAP, you may be directed to an alternate queue for more immediate boarding (most likely the Universal Express queue) at an attraction once the pass is presented to the team member. This service is much more difficult to receive than the AAP and takes some time. However, if it is clear the AAP is not accommodating your needs, then it might be worth the time and effort to ask for assistance. If you require immediate assistance, call 407-224-4233, option 4.
Whew — we covered a lot of information in this post! If you have any questions or experiences with Universal's Attraction Assistance Pass, we'd love to hear 'em. Let us know in the comments below!
Related: Overview of Disney's Disability Access Service Card
Related: Full List of Disability Access for Disney World Attractions
Keep hopping!
