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Home » Disney Military Discount ID Guide (2026): Which IDs Work for Tickets, Activation & Shades of Green

Disney Military Discount ID Guide (2026): Which IDs Work for Tickets, Activation & Shades of Green

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Do you want to know if you qualify for Disney Military Discounts?

Do you want to know if you have the right ID?

There are 3 different sets of Disney Military Discounts that we’ll discuss here. Each has its own eligibility and ID rules. These are:

  • The Disney Armed Forces Salute (a discount offered by Disney)
  • Base Ticket Offices (discounts offered by the military)
  • Shades of Green at Walt Disney World (a benefit offered by the military)

The Disney Armed Forces Salute

The Disney Armed Forces Salute is the most restrictive.

Those eligible members are:

Current military members:

  • Active
  • Reserve
  • National Guard
  • Coast Guard
  • Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS)
  • Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Retired military members:

  • Active
  • Reserve
  • National Guard
  • Coast Guard
  • Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS)
  • Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
  • DoD Civil Service (Ticket Discount Only)

100% Service Connected Disabled with the DAVPRM code on their military-issued ID, DD Form 1173, or DD Form 2765.

Spouses in place of the military member (not Civil Service or Contractor). Relationship Field must say SP or Spouse or DEC-DB. Note: The Disney Armed Forces Salute benefit is for the member only. While spouses may use their member’s benefit, they are not entitled to a benefit of their own. They only use the discounts in place of the member. Divorced spouses are not eligible, even if they have MWR privileges. Non-spouse dependents (children) are not eligible.

Foreign partners/Coalition partners stationed at a US base are eligible. They must have a permanent US Military-issued ID (CAC card with blue stripe).

Below is a chart showing the IDs that Disney accepts for the Disney Armed Forces Salute. This can also be used to determine eligibility for purchasing WDW’s special Party Tickets (Halloween and Christmas).

Disney Armed Forces Salute 2024 ID Guide – Click to see larger

 

Base Ticket Offices

All those mentioned above are eligible to use Base Ticket Offices, plus starting in 2020, the John McCain Defense Authorization Act, or as it’s also known, the Purple Heart and Disabled Veteran Equal Access Act took effect. This opens up eligibility for the use of Base Ticket Offices and many other MWR functions to:

  • Veterans who are Purple Heart recipients
  • Veterans who are former prisoners of war
  • All Veterans with service-connected disabilities
  • Individuals approved and designated as the Primary Family Caregivers of eligible Veterans under the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

The IDs required to prove eligibility are:

  • A Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
  • Or a HEC form H623A, paired with a government-issued ID

The HEC form H623A will be accepted in lieu of VHIC for veterans who have been placed in VA’s healthcare priority group 8E.

The VHIC must display the Veteran’s eligibility status (i.e., PURPLE HEART, FORMER POW, or SERVICE CONNECTED).  Note:  VHIC cards are issued to veterans enrolled in VA health care. Visit: https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic/ for information regarding eligibility for the VHIC and the application process.

The Shades of Green Resort

Shades of Green is the Armed Forces Recreation Center located right on Walt Disney World property. The 2 eligibility categories discussed above are eligible, plus quite a few more:

  • All Veterans (with honorable DD-214)  only for stays during the months of January and September!
  • Current and retired (APF and NAF) Department of Defense (DoD) and Coast Guard (CG) civilian employees
  • Military personnel of foreign nations and their family members when assigned or attached to a U.S. military unit or installation
  • U.S. employees of firms under contract to the Department of Defense working in the Pacific Region outside the U.S. on Department of Defense Government orders
  • Spouses of the Military listed above
  • Unremarried surviving spouses of personnel who died while on active duty or while in retired status
  • Unremarried former spouses who were married to military members for at least 20 years while the military member was on active duty
  • Family members who have suffered a loss of an Active Duty sponsor, regardless of the cause

The required IDs for these eligibilities are:

  • Involuntarily separated service members under the Transition Assistance Management Program ID is DD Form 2
  • Personnel separated under the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) and Special Separation Benefit (SSB) programs for two years after separation ID is DD Form 2
  • Unremarried surviving spouses of personnel who died while on active duty or while in retired status ID is DD Form 1173 or 1173-1
  • Un-remarried former spouses who were married to military members for at least 20 years while the military member was on active duty ID is DD Form 1173
  • A DD Form 1173 with “AD” in the Sponsor Service/Status field in combination with “DB” (DOD Beneficiary) or CH (Child Beneficiary) in the Relationship field on identification cards is required.

Next Generation Uniformed Services ID Card

Regarding the new white ID cards that are being issued now instead of the various colored ones, Disney says:

The rollout of the Next Generation Uniformed Services ID Card should not impact your ability as a 100% Disabled Veteran to purchase and use Military Promotional Theme Park Tickets. Because these tickets are purchased on base, they will verify your eligibility at the MWR or other on-site ticketing office. Then, when you activate the tickets at a Walt Disney World Resort Guest Relations window, you will show your valid and active military ID. I checked with a Cast Member, who confirmed that their verification process is just checking that you have a military ID and that it is you in person.“

The big issue with these is that they no longer have DAVPRM on them for 100% Service Connected Permanently Disabled Vets. Disney’s answer is sort of a non-answer.

Don’t Have the Right ID, Read More About Veterans’ Discounts for Disney

In Closing

I hope that this guide helps you navigate this confusing subject!

Let us know if you have questions below in the comments section.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which IDs are accepted to buy/activate Disney’s Armed Forces Salute tickets?
Bring a valid DoD-issued Uniformed Services ID (USID) for the eligible member or spouse. 100% disabled veterans may use acceptable VA/DoD ID. Always carry the same ID used at purchase for activation.

Can a spouse purchase and activate without the service member?
Usually yes—the spouse with a valid dependent ID may purchase and activate Armed Forces Salute tickets without the service member present.

Are state driver’s licenses with a “Veteran” designation accepted?
Generally no. Disney typically requires DoD- or VA-issued IDs that verify eligibility; state veteran markings are not sufficient for Armed Forces Salute.

Are NOAA and U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps eligible?
Yes—for both Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets and stays at Shades of Green.

Can DoD civilians use Disney’s Armed Forces Salute tickets?
No. DoD civilians aren’t eligible for Armed Forces Salute tickets, but they are eligible to stay at Shades of Green (no time-based restriction).

Can non-retired veterans stay at Shades of Green?
Yes—in January and September only. (Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket eligibility is separate and more limited.)

What ID do I need at Shades of Green check-in?
Present the ID that qualifies you for your rate/eligibility (e.g., military ID, DoD civilian ID). The name on the reservation must match the ID.

What if my ID is expired?
Expired IDs are typically not accepted. Renew before travel to avoid issues buying, activating, or checking in.

How To: Prove Eligibility & Use the Correct ID

  1. Confirm your category – Active/retired, Guard/Reserve, 100% disabled veteran, spouse, NOAA/PHS, DoD civilian, or non-retired veteran.
  2. Choose your benefit – Armed Forces Salute tickets, other base-ticket options, or Shades of Green lodging.
  3. Match the ID to the benefit –
    1. Disney Military Salute tickets: DoD USID for member/spouse; acceptable VA/DoD ID for 100% disabled veterans; NOAA/PHS eligible.
    2. Shades of Green: Active/retired, Guard/Reserve; DoD civilians (no time limit); non-retired veterans (January & September); NOAA/PHS not eligible.
  4. Buy/Reserve – Purchase tickets through Shades of Green or your base ticket office; book Shades of Green directly.
    Bring the same ID to activate/check in – Present the qualifying ID at Disney ticket activation and at Shades of Green check-in.

This article was written by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.

Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.

Read Steve’s Full Bio | Follow Military Disney Tips on Facebook


Planning a Disney Vacation?

Military Disney discounts can save families a significant amount of money, but figuring out eligibility, tickets, resorts, transportation, and Lightning Lane strategies can get confusing quickly. These guides are a great place to start.

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Comments

  1. Charles says

    I recently purchased tickets through my local MWR. I am 100% va disabled and my awards letter says “total and permanent “. Today I went and got a DOD ID card but it does not say permanent anywhere on the card. It says 100% Disabled American Veteran with an expiration of IDENTF. Will this ID work when I go to Disney World?

    Reply

  2. Stephane Caron says

    I would like to know if active Canadian military members and spouses are included in the discount?

    Reply

    • Steve says

      HI Stephane,

      If stationed at a US base with a US issued ID. Like those CF members that I worked with at Tyndall AFB.

      See the CAC card in the middle on the right in the image.

      Reply

  3. Kay says

    I am wanting to take my grandchildren to Disney World this year. There will be a total of eight of us. Am I able to get the Salute discount tickets for all of us?

    Reply

  4. Sharoyah Fernandez says

    My child has a military dependent ID . Is he eligible for discount?
    His sponsor (dad) died.

    Reply

  5. Susan says

    Hi, I work at Anderson Air Force Base Guam as a civilian. My department is DoD. Am I eligible for military discount? Thank you!

    Reply

  6. Joseph F Taylor says

    Hi I’m a army vet with 5 years of active and reserve status. I was given my veteran ID card Electronically from the VA. Gov website but it do t look like any of the ones posted. I also still work for the Gov with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as a Law Enforcement Officer. Can I get myself and my wife the 4 day hopper passes . I have my DD-214 as well if needed.

    Reply

  7. Sharon Fugent says

    Hi, I have been issued the new ID card. I am the ex-spouse of a veteran with the married 20 years benefits. From what I’ve read, it seems that I can stay at Shades of Green, but cannot get the WDW tickets at the discounted price. Is this the case? Thank you for replying.

    Reply

  8. Jennifer says

    Hi, from what I am reading it does not appear that my husband would qualify for the Salute tickets. He is a veteran with an ID card. He does have a service disability but not 100%. He called the base to verify if he was eligible to purchase these tickets and they stated yes. They stated they treat veterans the same as retirees. If the base allowed my husband to buy the tickets and we took them to Disney with his ID, would we be turned away? Hate to spend all that money and have the base be incorrect and we can not use them.

    Reply

  9. Erin says

    Hello!

    So I dont know if I was reading this right, but it says that those with service-related disabilities would qualify for base tickets under the John McCain Defense Authorization Act? Is there a minimum disability rating on that? Is it in conjunction with having to have a purple heart or former POW classification? Or is it a stand alone qualifier? My husband has 60% service related but not the Purple Heart or POW.

    Thank you to all of you for your sacrifices and service, blessings to you all!

    Reply

  10. Dahleen Kendler says

    My ID has:Affliation DOD Beneficary

    MWR said I cannot get the Salute tickets that it is for active duty only.

    Base ID said this is the new reiltired ID. I have full authorization.

    Reply

  11. Dan says

    Hello, my affiliation states “Contractor” on my CAC card with a G – Green stripe. Would I qualify for the discount, along with buying additional guest (family) tickets for all the parks?

    Reply

    • Steve says

      Hi Dan,

      Unfortunately no.

      As a contractor you work for your company not the military department they contract with. I’m a contractor now myself after having retired from DoD civil service and the military.

      Some large company’s have deals with Disney, you could check through your company.

      Your base ticket office may let you purchase the Regular Disney Military Ticket Discount for Walt Disney World and Disneyland, If they do these do not require a military ID for use.

      Reply

  12. Devin Earl says

    My MWR office is telling me that with my DoD CAC that has a Affiliation of “State Employee” i will be able to enter the park with Armed Forces Salute tickets. Is this correct?

    Reply

    • Steve says

      Hi Devin,

      No it is not correct. The Disney Armed Forces Salute is for military members. DoD Civilians and contractors are not eligible.

      Would you mind sharing what MWR office that is so I can have someone reach out to them with some training?

      I’ve never heard of your status but I assume that you are employed by the Guard but are not a Guardsman. You would be the same as above.

      Reply

  13. Mackenzie says

    Hello, I have a military spouse ID card but it doesn’t look like the one above. It does have my spouses active rank on it, would I still be eligible for the benefits he would have? And would I be able to bring someone with me with that benefit who isn’t my spouse?

    Reply

    • Steve says

      Hi Mackenzie,

      I’m assuming that you have the new style (white) ID on the lower left in the image above which you might have misses.

      Yes as a spouse you’re eligible for your husband’s benefits and can bring anyone you’d like.

      Reply

  14. Jon says

    I am 100% DAV. I purchased 6 salute tickets. I can’t go because Im having emergency surgery. My son has his dependent ID with 100% DAV. Can my son still go and his friends without me?

    Reply

  15. Rajesh Saxena says

    Sir
    I am Indian army retired officer with 50% disability. I want to visit Disney World with my wife in first week of April 2023. Can Disney World oblige me with concession in stay resort and magic world and Hollywood only 2 theme parks on 4,5 April 2023. I will bring my I cards and documents

    Reply

  16. Darlene says

    Hi there! I have a non-remarried former spouse id of over 20 years with full MWR benefits. Am I allowed to buy the Armed Forces Salute tickets from the Shades of Green? They have never allowed me to purchase, but reading your above article I should be allowed to purchase unless I misunderstood. Can you please clarify for me? Appreciate your time.

    Reply

  17. Jean Smith says

    My husband was a Vietnam era Navy veteran. He passed away in 2017 and was rated at 100% service connected disabled. I have not remarried and I receive a monthly allowance from the VA. Am I eligible for any of the Disney discounts, specifically at Disneyland.

    Reply

    • Steve says

      Hi Jean,

      Do you have a military spouse ID card? That would be what is required to be eligible for a discount?

      Reply

  18. Kelly says

    Does the SAME military person who buys the salute tix ( like though their local MWR) have to be the one to ACTIVATE at the park? For example if for some reason the person who bought them can’t make the trip but another person in the party is military can they activate tickets? We have done this in the pass but just checking to see if anything has changed I couldn’t locate the rules for prior years to check if anything has changed this year.

    Reply

    • Steve says

      Hi Kelly,

      Nope, no changes. The only thing that matters is Disney’s activation, not the purchase.

      The only possible snag is if a ticket is linked in My Disney Experience to someone not going. You would need to call Disney Tech Support to get it unlinked.

      Disney Internet Help Desk at 800-848-6413, option #3

      Reply

  19. Melissa says

    Hi, I am currently a Veteran’s Affair’s employee and a non-retired veteran that is 60% service connected. It sounds like I may qualify for discounted tickets at a local MWR but not the “salute” tickets. Am I understanding this correctly? I certainly do not want to purchase tickets, travel that far and be turned away. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Steve Bell says

      Hi Melissa,

      Yes, you are correct. As a vet with a service-connected disability, you are eligible to purchase any ticket that does not require a military ID to activate. The 2 that do are the Disney Armed Forces Salute and the Universal Military Freedom Pass. All others, you are good to go, so for Disney, the Military Theme Park Tickets, as they are now called.

      Reply

  20. Teresa Espinoza says

    If my daughter is going with a group of friends but she is the only active duty one would she be able to purchase 5 other tickets with the military salute for the rest of her party?

    Reply

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