If you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando and you or someone in your party requires special needs assistance, then the Universal Orlando Attraction Assistance Pass, also known as AAP, is exactly what you’re looking for. Let’s take a look at how to get it, use it, and benefit from it.
Where to get your pass
When you get to the park of your choosing, either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure, head straight to Guest Services, which will be to the right after the turnstiles at both parks. Note that these AAP passes are not issued at the Guest Services windows outside the parks, or at CityWalk.
How to get your pass
You’ll simply walk to the window, let them know what you need, and answer any questions they ask you honestly. Some people recommend bringing a doctor’s note identifying what your medical situation is. Note that the Americans with Disabilities Act makes it very clear that not only are you not required to prove your special need – they are not allowed to ask for a specific diagnosis. You’ll find those at Guest Services to be highly trained in this process and there to help – not to hinder you.
Details on your AAP
The pass itself is a 4 inch by 9-inch card that has a barcode at the bottom and 25 lines for return times. If you’re an annual pass holder you can have it issued for up to 14 consecutive days, while those who buy daily tickets can have it issued for the entire length of their stay.
How to use your pass
A common misconception is that the AAP gives you instant access to the rides. This isn’t true! Instead, you go to the greeter at the attraction you want to visit and check the wait time. If it’s less than 30 minutes you’ll be directed to the alternative queue right away. In some cases it may be the Express Pass queue, in others, it may be the attraction’s exit.
If the wait is in excess of 30 minutes, the greeter will write down your specific wait time on the back of your pass. When that time arrives, you just take your AAP back to the greeter and they’ll send you to the alternative queue. After you’re done with the attraction you can go on to the next one.
You can only have one return time at a time, however – you can ride something else while you’re waiting. For example, if one ride has a 45-minute wait and you get a return time of 45 minutes later, you can visit any ride you’d like that has a shorter wait – you simply can’t use your AAP to avoid the line.
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