Disney’s Armed Forces Salute is a fantastic discount available to military members and retirees. This discount includes both ticket discounts and room discounts.
Here are the Top Ten Things that you need to know about the Military Discounted Tickets with this offer.
(Updated December 2023)
See the companion post about Military Discounted Rooms here: Top Ten Things You Need To Know About Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Military Room Discounts and the full details page about the Disney Armed Forces Salute.
Note to non-retired veterans; you do not qualify for the Disney Armed Forces Salute, however there are Disney Veteran Discounts that you do qualify for.
1. The Armed Forces Salute is a Temporary Offer
The Armed Forces Salute is a relatively recent innovation by the Walt Disney Company. The first version of the Salute was first offered in 2002 as a partial of the year, during the travel industry downturn after 9/11. It ended once people started traveling again in bigger numbers later that year.
Military members then had to again be satisfied with the slight Regular Military Discount on Disney Tickets that had always been available through Military Base Ticket Offices (and still are).
The Disney Armed Forces Salute returned again in January 2009 as the housing crash/economic downturn came into full swing and the general public reduced their vacation spending. The Salute offers have been renewed, on a year to year basis, since then with a couple of notable breaks.
So if you are considering a Disney vacation within the next couple of years keep in mind that we never know if the Salute will be renewed again or not.
One ticket during each purchase period must be for the use of the member or spouse, the rest can be used by anyone else (family or friends).
Walt Disney World
The 2023 Salute Ticket Offer started on 1 January 2023 and runs through 15 December 2023.
Disneyland
The 2023 Salute Ticket Offer started on 9 January 2023 and runs through 15 December 2023.
2. What Type of Tickets are available for the Armed Forces Salute?
There are several different Disney Theme Park Tickets available through the Armed Forces Salute for Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
For Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida 4-day and 5-day tickets are available.
For 2023 they come in 2 different versions.
- Park Hopper Option
- Park Hopper Plus Option
For Disneyland in Anaheim California 3-day and 4-day tickets are available.
They come in one version.
- Park Hopper Option
- I expect when Genie+ starts at Disneyland there will also be this option
3. What are these Options?
The Park Hopper Option allows you to visit multiple Disney theme parks on the same day. You can start your day at one park then switch to another (as many times as you want), or even take a break in between.
The Park Hopper Plus Option allows the number of Plus entrances equal to the number of days on the ticket (so a 4-day ticket has 4 Plus entrances). These Plus entrances are for the following Walt Disney World entertainment venues:
- The Water Parks: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach
- General admission into the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
- 9 Holes of Golf at Disney’s Oak Trail 9-Hole Golf Course
- One round of golf a the Mini-Golf Courses: Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course & Disney’s Winter Summerland (prior to 4pm)
Read more about the Park Hopper Plus Options
These Plus entrances are separate from the theme park admissions on your ticket. You may use these Plus entrances on the same day or different days than your theme park admissions. You may use one or more Plus entrance per day (same day returns to the same water park does not deduct another entrance).
Genie+ is Disney’s replacement for FastPass+ at Walt Disney World and FastPass and MaxPass at Disneyland. See our Genie+ Page for more info.
4. What Dates are the Armed Forces Salute Tickets available for use?
Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets are valid only within the offer period.
Walt Disney World
- 2023 Salute Tickets 1 January through 15 December 2023
Disneyland
- 2023 Salute Tickets 9 January through 15 December 2023
Disney has what they call blockout dates, dates on which these tickets are not allowed to be used.
Walt Disney World Blockout Dates
- 17 December through 31 December 2021
- 9 April through 17 April 2022
Disneyland Blockout Dates
- 2 – 15 April 2023
5. Where can I purchase the Armed Forces Salute Tickets?
Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets can be purchased several places:
- Your Local Base MWR Ticket Office
- Shades of Green, the Military Owned and Operated Resort on Disney World property
- The Orlando ITT
- Long distance from Camp Pendleton or Shades of Green as well as other locations with a FedEx delivery fee added
- Disney Theme Park Ticket and Guest Relations locations
Tickets that are purchased at Non-Disney locations (except Shades of Green) will need to be activated at a Disney Park prior to their use for entry.
If you have purchased your tickets elsewhere (except Shades of Green) or plan to purchase your tickets at a Disney location all members of the party must be present, as the tickets will be activated at that time and all must be present for this process.
A note on sales tax: There is no sales tax charged at military resellers or Disneyland, but you will pay sales tax at any Walt Disney World location.
You cannot buy these tickets online or via phone from Disney, through your travel agent, at Walt Disney World Resorts, or from the Disney Store.
See:
How to Purchase Military Discounted Theme Park Tickets a Step By Step Guide
6. How many Armed Forces Salute Tickets can I purchase?
Walt Disney World
Qualified individuals can purchase up to a maximum of 6 2023 Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets during the offer.
Disneyland
Qualified individuals can purchase up to a maximum of 6 2023 Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets during the offer.
What if you have more that 6 people in your family?
For families larger than 6, Disney states “Exceptions should be made for immediate families larger than six people.” For example, if a family has five children, Disney will allow all members of the family to purchase Disney Military Promotion Tickets, for Mom, Dad, and the five kids. See this post for more info
One of these tickets must be for the military member or spouse. The other tickets may be for anyone the member wants to purchase them for.
This requires the military member or spouse to physically go to the theme park with their party for the activation process.
Note: Disney Pass Holders do not need to have a Salute ticket for themselves. In this case in theory one of the 6 tickets would be “reserved” for the member and cannot be used by others, but this has often not been enforced.
What if the military member can’t go to the Disney Park?
Disney does take into consideration that military spouses might want to take the kids on a Disney vacation while the military member is deployed and they make an allowance for this.
Military spouses are allowed to purchase and activate Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets. The spouse activates the tickets in place of the member.
Again in theory, one ticket is reserved for the member, but rarely enforced.
These Salute Tickets cannot be activated without the member or spouse being part of the party!
NOTE: The Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort offers are totally separate offers. This means that each member is eligible for the number of allowed tickets at each vacation destination during the Salute offer period.
See:
I Don’t Have The Correct ID To Activate Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets
Can I Give My Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets to Someone Else to Use?
7. How much do the Armed Forces Salute Tickets cost?
Disney World 2023 Armed Forces Salute Prices
- 3-day Park Hopper – $245
- 3-day Park Hopper with Genie+ – $320
- 4-day Park Hopper – $280
- 4-day Park Hopper with Genie+ – $380
Disneyland 2021-2022 Armed Forces Salute Prices
- Three-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $225.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $260.00
These prices are before to tax. You’ll pay these prices at military sales locations and Disneyland, but tax will be added at Disney World ticket locations.
Some bases use local MWR funds to make the price a few dollars less, while others charge a “service” fee making them a few dollars more.
The American Flag flies proudly over Disney World’s Epcot
8. How do I activate the Armed Forces Salute Tickets?
Armed Forces Salute Tickets that were purchased at Non-Disney locations such as Base ITT/ITR offices (except Shades of Green) will need to be activated before you try to use them at a theme park turnstile/tapstyle/touch point for entrance.
You can do this at all Disney theme park ticket booths or at Disney Guest Relations locations.
Disney World
- Transportation and Ticket Center
- Magic Kingdom Entrance
- Epcot Main Entrance
- Epcot International Gateway Entrance
- Disney Hollywood Studios Main Entrance
- Disney Animal Kingdom Main Entrance
- WDW Water Parks Entrances
- Disney Spring’s Ticket Center
Disneyland
- The main entrances to each theme park
- The rear entrance to Disney’s California Adventure
- The Downtown Disney Monorail Station to Tomorrowland
All members of the party will need to be present at the time of activation, including either the military member or their spouse who will be activating the tickets.
Why does Disney require the activation process and that everyone be there? They do this to prevent giving them to those who are not eligible or scalping of these large discount tickets…
See this great post on the activation process
Tickets purchased at Shades of Green are Pre-Activated and do not require this process!
9. Are there any restrictions on how the Armed Forces Salute Tickets can be used?
Besides any Blockout dates and the expiration date there are no restrictions.
You can use all the days of your tickets in a row, sporadically over a longer vacation stay, or here and there throughout the year. We’ve done all of these.
The same applies to the Plus visits, you have until the end of the Salute Offer Period to use them all up.
10. What if I need more days than the Armed Forces Salute Tickets offer?
In some cases you may want to spend more days touring the Disney parks than are available on the Armed Forces Salute Tickets.
At Disney World, one idea is to opt for the Plus Option. The Plus visits can be used on non-park days to fill out a longer stay.
Use back-to-bask Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets if you have a small party. One to three people can use 2 or more Salute tickets each for a longer stay Another option is to buy tickets for the additional days on top of your Armed Forces Salute Tickets. But you should be very careful doing any of these, depending on the options you select for your regular Military Discounted Disney tickets it becomes more costly to add a second ticket versus just opting for the number of days that you need using the regular military discount instead of the Armed Forces Salute.
See What’s the right military ticket for me?
11. A Bonus Question – Can I use Disney Genie, Magic Bands, My Disney Experience, and the Disneyland app with my Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets?
Absolutely!
All of Walt Disney World’s and Disneyland’s Technology is available to those who use military tickets!
All Disney Guests now need to purchase their Magic Bands if they want to use them. Either through their Disney Resort Hotel reservation, Disney Store online, or after arrival.
See our WDW Tech Pages for more info: Walt Disney World and Disneyland Technology Overview
So there you have it
The ten top things that you need to know about Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Tickets, plus one bonus item.
Many of the above items are questions that I’m often asked via email, in site comments, and on facebook.
If you have more questions consider buying my Disney World Guide Book for Military Families, my Disneyland Guide Book for Military Families reading the full Disney Armed Forces Salute Information Page, the Disney Armed Forces Salute FAQ, or checking out our FAQ Friday Posts.
Are there any other questions that you have? Leave them in a comments section below!
- Also See: Top Ten Things You Need To Know About Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Military Room Discounts
|
This MDT Post By: Steve Bell Steve is the the Military Disney Tips Founder. He a retired U.S. Military Member who's been touring the Disney Parks since 1971! Steve's mission is to help military families with their Disney vacations in every way. Check out Steve's Bio. Subscribe to Steve's email newsletter to get website updates and news by clicking this link. |
Planning a Disney Trip? Want to get the best military discounts that are available? Feeling a little confused? See Our Great Disney Discount and Planning Info:
- Disney Veteran & Military Discount Eligibility Guide
- The Military Family’s Walt Disney World Comprehensive Vacation Planning and Preparation Guide
- Military Disney Tips Disney Packing Checklist
- Disney Military Tickets – Your Start to Finish Guide
- Resorts/Hotel Overview Page
- Dining Overview Page
- Transportation Overview Page
- Technology Overview Page
- Shades of Green, WDW’s Military Only Resort
|
Military Disney Tips' Recommended Disney Travel Agent
Ears of Experience Disney Only Travel Agency. Military family owned and operated! They know all the ins and outs of Disney military discounts! |
FYI – the Orlando ITT office no longer sells the Disney Salute tickets. They still sell others, but no longer sell the Salute deal for 2012 or plan to for 2013. We just went there last week to get ours, but were told that Shades of Green is now the only place to get them on site without having to pay tax at the actual gate of the parks.
Thanks for the update Danelle!
I was there a couple months ago and they were still selling them.
Hey – I just found your site and wanted to share that we have those tickets at Patrick AFB ITT Office. 🙂
Hi Dawn,
Thanks so much for the info!!!
Is it possible to use one set of 6 in December of 2012 and a second set of 6 in September 2013. We used the offer in September 2011 and December 2010. I am not sure if those were the same offer or if the rules were different with that offer but we are thinking of going twice in the next year and figure we should get them both in with this offer in case it isn’t renewed. The person at ITT said they do not keep track of who is buying them but there may be an issue when we go to activate the second set.
Hi Tricia,
You’ll only be allowed 6 tickets between 1 October 2012 and 28 September 2013. That is the time period of the new offer.
The previous offer period was 24 October 2010 through 30 September 2012, with a limit of 12 tickets. Thats why you were able to use the Salute offer twice.
ITTs are supposed to keep track, but Disney sure does as well. So you’ll need to find other ways to save on the second vacation.
Don’t forget that you can use the Armed Forces Salute room discounts as many times as you want!
Do you know if disabled veterans are eligible for the AFS tickets? Thanks for the information.
Hi Amy,
Check out this post and let me know if you have any more questions: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-discounts/disney-military-discounts-a-confusing-topic-for-disabled-veterans/
Steve
If you havent used any of the 4 days on military tickets that expire on Sept 30 2012, can you apply that cost toward the new military tickets that expire in Oct 2013? Thanks
No Brian, unfortunately you can’t. All value of the ticket expires 30 Sept as far as I know. That is the way it is supposed to work.
It might be that you could talk a Manager into helping you, but don’t count on it!
What is the policy for the stars and stripes tickets when there are 10 people (8 children) in your immediate family? Do I need to contact Disney directly prior to our vacation? Or is that something that I need to contact SOG about? Also, do I purchase tickets at SOG, or via fax with SOG when there are 10 of us? Thanks for your help!
Hi Tiffany,
From what I’ve heard ITT Offices including Shades seem to be unaware of the exception for large families and stick to the 6 limit.
You could call the shades ticket office to ask if they’ll sell you 10 @ 407 824 1403. You’ll save the tax there.
If they say no then just go to a Disney theme park ticket booth once you get there. Nothing to do ahead of time.
Have a blast!
Hi! I have a question. My father was retired miltary, and if my mom (widow) purchases the tickets for us on base, does she have to be with us when we activate the tickets, or can we take along the military id? She recently fell and broke her hip, had a full hip replacement, and would like to make the trip, but no theme parks! She doesn’t drive, so actually going to the park would not be doable for her. She wants to purchase the tickets for the kids for Christmas. Thanks in advance!!!
Hi Alicia,
It is important to note that there are 2 kinds of Disney Discount Tickets for the Military.
– The Disney Armed Forces Salute which this page talks about, is a temporary offer (which has been going since 2009) and offers theme park tickets at about half off. These have lots of restrictions one of which is the military member or spouse MUST go to a Disney them theme park ticket window or Guest Relations location with their whole party to activate the tickets. There is a Guest Relations office in Downtown Disney which might be easier to get to than the theme parks.
– And the Regular Military Discounted Disney Tickets which we have always had. These are the same tickets in all the varieties that the general public can buy at the theme park gates. These are slightly discounted 4%-8% depending on length and options. These can only be purchased at Base Ticket Offices or Shades of Green. They come in two varieties, those that are ready for use and those that need to be exchanges at the Disney theme park ticket window (with a military ID). So in this instance she’d have to ensure that the tickets purchased are ready for use.
My family of 4 is traveling to WDW November 12, 2012 with my parents (total of 6). My dad’s Military ID card reads “Department of the Air Force Civilian Identification” Status “RET/CIV”. Will he be able to receive a Military Salute Discount Tickets or any other park admission discounts? Thank you!!
Hi Kristi, as a retired DoD Civilian your dad is not eligible for Disney’s Armed Forces Salute, but he is eligible to stay at and purchase the regular military discounted tickets at Shades of Green.
Have fun!
I am having a hard time deciding between Park Hopper or Park Hopper plus Water Parks. If I do Park Hopper only could I add WP&M on site should we have time while we are there?
Yes you can add the WP&M option once you get there for $28 plus tax. Have fun Angela
My mom is the spouse of a retired navy chief and she is buying the tickets for me because I don’t have time to get to a base myself. I am a currently reservist. Will I have any issues getting into disneyland since I’m not the purchaser?
Hi Chefdizzle,
No there won’t be any issue with Disney. The tickets themselves aren’t associated with a name until Disney activates them at DL.
The only issue is that if the Base keeps good records the number of tickets she buys for you will be reduced from the 6 they will let her buy. You might have to return the favor if she needs some.
My sister is going to buy the tickets for us and is willing to drive to Disneyland with us to activate the tickets, but she does not want to actually go into the theme park. Can she activate the tickets at the guest services and then can we proceed to the gate without her? We are trying to figure out if we actually have to buy her the ticket as well (and have her walk in and then walk out) or if one of us could just use the ticket once the activation process was complete. Thank you!
Hi Lisa,
That is great that your sister is willing to do that for you!
She definitely has to have a ticket, there is no way around that. She will have to activate one for herself and your whole party. You must all be there at the same time. There is an indication that Disney World has a new rule (and I assume it might be the same at Disneyland) that the Armed Forces Salute tickets need to be used for park entry on the same day activated. Ask at the guest services window when you all activate them if she needs to enter the park. She could leave right after.
Have fun.
Hi Steve, my father is retired military and his wife is planning to purchase tickets for themselves and other family members ( I am eligible to purchase my own). Our question: can she activate her ticket on one day,so that she can enjoy a day in the parks with us,and activate the rest later in the week when the other family members arrive? Or does she have to activate all of her tickets at the same time on the same day? Thank you!
Hey there Claire,
Well, Disney’s rule is that the member (or spouse) must activate their guests tickets when they do their own, and everyone must be present.
But I hear all the time about this not being adhered to. But it’s not a guarantee.
What I’d recommend trying in this situation is have her get photo copies of her guests’ driver’s licenses and try to activate all of her tickets when you do yours. If one ticket window balks, try another.
Are prices the same for children ages 5 & 2 for armed forces salute 4 day ticket?
Yes Debra, they are. It’s still pretty close to half off.
A regular military discount 4-day child’s hopper goes for $288.
Just to verify: must the tickets be used consequetively or can you use a day here and there, as long as they are used by September 2013?
Hi, you can use a day here and there through 28 September 2013! That’s how I used mine.
I have several questions.
1. Last week when my son went to purchase tickets at Shades of Green, he was told if wanted all six tickets he would have to be them all at the same time. He wasn’t allowed to buy 1 now and 4 later in the year. Was that information correct?
2. If we purchase the Park Hopper Plus do the water park days count as one of the four days of usage? For example, if we went Mon, Tues, and Wed to disney parks and on Thurs went to a waterpark would our 4 days be done? Or are the water park days 4 days plus 4 disney days???
Thanks for your assitance.
Hi Barbara,
While Disney’s published rules says nothing about buying all 6 at the same time, Disney did at one time say that this was the case and apparently Shades is using that rule. Disney later did say this is not the case. So if Shades won’t sell him one he may need to go to a Disney ticket booth and pay tax on his ticket.
Think of the ticket with the water park and more option as 2 tickets in 1. You’ll have 4 theme park days plus 4 admissions to the WP&M venues.
Have fun!
We got 4 military salute tickets… can we activate them at a WDW resort guest relations desk or will it have to be at the theme park… just trying to avoid additional lines.
Eliza , you can activate them at any Disney World Theme Park Ticket booth or Guest Relations location (at the parks and Downtown Disney), but unfortunately not at your resort. If you go to DTD the day of your arrival (if you aren’t going to the parks) you can do it then.
Hi Steve,
Do you know if honorable discharges qualify for this offer? Specifically my fiance received a medically-related (med board) honorable discharge, and we were looking into this offer. Thanks!
Hi Aimee,
So as I understand your question, he is totally separated and has no base access?If so then there is only one offer he is eligible for and it is through Shades of Green. Unless he is 100% disabled and that is a different conversation.
Hope this helps.
I was at Disneyland on Nov. 24th & 25th using military salute tickets, and for the first time ever, the military member was required to be present every day when the activated tickets were used by family members, not just on the first day to activate the tickets. Very inconvenient. They said the change was because there were counterfeit tickets being used.
That is very interesting Marvin,
Could you explain how that happened for us? This year Disneyland did include this on their website, but I didn’t think that it was correct.
First did you have the hard plastic tickets with the Armed Forces Salute logo (from ITT), or the regular paper tickets with the Disney characters (from Disney ticket booths)?
How’d it go down at the turnstile, did they say “Where is the military member” when a dependent scanned their ticket?
The counterfeiting story doesn’t make sense, each ticket has an individual number on it’s magnetic strip. If you had the capability to make fake tickets that worked, why do military ones, which stand out?
Hello. I am active duty and have three dependants(1 adult, 5 yr old, and 2 yr old). I would only like to see Disney for one day. What is my best option?
Hi Michael,
Here are the rates for the regular military discounted Disney tickets (Not the Armed Forces Salute) at Shades of Green. You can buy them there or at your base ticket office a very similar prices: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
Dear Steve:
You may have answered these questions already, but I’m going to Disney World next month and want to make sure I have all the rules straight.
My cousin is retired Air Force and bought six Military Salute tickets for herself and my family in October at Shades of Green. We then went to EPCOT where we received the activated hard plastic tickets; however, we did NOT go into the park at that time. Our plan was to use these tickets for our January trip.
Will we be able to do this? I’ve read elsewhere that the tickets have to be used right away once they’re activated and then expire within two weeks of that activation and use.
I greatly appreciate your assistance!
Hi Kathleen,
You are all set. ONce activated you can use the tickets anytime until 28 Sept 2013. Except during blockout dates, 24 – 31 December 2012, 24 March – 4 April 2013, July 4, 2012 (No Magic Kingdom only).
There was some talk initially out of Disney that the tickets had to be first used the day of activation, but that turned out not to be the case.
Have a great time!
2 questions. 1: Can the military member ACTIVATE more than 6 tickets, as we already have 2 from a different member but they weren’t activated. So we need a total of 8 activated, but only need to buy 6. Is this possible? I would think it wouldn’t matter how many get activated.
2: How much are the 2 park with 3rd day free Universal tickets that military members can buy for friends and family? Reply ASAP plz!!!!! Thanks
Hi Brian,
The limit is on the number of Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets that you can activate. The max is six. The limit is on the number a member can use.
You’ll need regular military discounted Disney Tickets.
The flyer I have from Universal does not list prices it says a 2 day ticket with a third day free from your base ticket office. A regular military 2 day 2 park ticket is about $137.
So if I’m understanding this correctly – if my family arrived at Disney World on a Saturday we could buy our Armed Forces Salute Park Hopper, plus the Water Park and More Option tickets from SOG that day.
We could then go to say Disney Quest that evening, and start our actual park days the next day. How/where would we get our tickets activated to be able to go to Disney Quest that first evening?
We would then have through the deadline in September 2013 to use the remaining park days and WP&M visits or just the typical 14 days that regular tickets have?
Good Questions Sandy,
Everything you said is correct. After purchasing your tickets at Shades you could activate them at the Downtown Disney Guest Relations counter, between TrenD and Arribas Brothers.
Your four park days and four WP&M entrances all expire on 28 Sept 2013, there is no 14-day or consecutive use rule.
Have fun!
I was just told they need to be used within 14 days of activation.
Hi Heather,
Whoever told you that is mixing apples and oranges.
There are two kinds of military discounted Disney tickets. The 4-day Armed Forces Salute tickets which require activation and do not expire until 28 Sept 2013. And the regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets, which come in all the lengths and varieties available to the general public but at a 4-8% discount. Some Magic Your Way tickets do expire 14 days after “first use” and there are more expensive ones which never expire.
Hope this clears it up, you can see the prices for the regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets here.
My husband is active duty Marine Corps and I am planning our trip for next September(early September before the deadline). I was just reading the guidelines about the armed forces tickets and was a little disapointed and was just wanting to make sure I understood it correctly.
It would be just my husband, myself, and our 4 year old daughter, so three tickets for four days, but I had originally thought I could buy three more tickets, and use them to make a 8 day vacation out of it. I am not allowed to do that, correct?
And if I wanted to extend our vacation, what would the best deal be for our situation. I am thinking only a park hopper(maybe with the water parks) but now I am so discombobulated about what to do that I am wondering if it’s even financially able to make it a longer trip. Any advice?
Hi Melissa,
Disney officials have confirmed to me that back-to-back use of the Armed Forces Salute tickets is now allowed. There was a period when they had said they wouldn’t allow this. But you’ll be good to go.
My husband purchased 6 tickets back in July and we used one day and now have 2 days left (we purchased the Armed Forces Salute tickets for Disneyland in CA). My question is this: I know he has to be present and show his ID on all three days that we use the tickets, but does he have to have his ticket as well? We are going to Disneyland with different people this January and wanted to use our tickets and then buy another day(not another armed forces salute, just a regular ticket) on the final day of our other guests 3 day pass. Could we do this since he would still be there? Or does he need to use his Armed Forces Salute ticket in addition to showing his military ID with our guests all three days? I hope this wasn’t too confusing, thanks in advance!
Hi Melissa,
Well there are a couple issues. First, and most important, the 26 October 2010 through 30 September Armed Forces Salute ended on 30 Sept. and tickets from that offer are no longer valid they expired along with any days left on them. So you’ll need to either buy new Armed Forces Salute tickets from the new offer which started on 1 October or 4-day regular military discounted tickets from your Base Ticket Office.
The other thing, and I’m not really sure I understood you, but all of your tickets must be used by the same person every time. Tickets used by one person on one day can’t be used later by another person. Was that what you were trying to ask when you said 3 other guests and your husband not using his ticket?
Hi again, sorry I thought it sounded a little confusing. We did purchase the new ones in November (I was thinking about the last time we purchased them) So we do have the new set of military tickets. We bought one for my husband, myself, my brother, his wife, and my mother. Now I know in order for my mother, brother and sister in law to use their tickets, my husband has to be there and show his military ID, but does he need to have his ticket as well? We’re thinking of going to Disneyland in 2 weeks with different people and we wanted to use our armed forces tickets, since we don’t have the money to buy regular park tickets right now, but I’m worried if we do that, then on my families’ last day they won’t be able to get in. We would be going with them, and purchasing a regular park ticket on their last day of the three days. Hope this was easier to understand. Thanks
LOL!
You know this is a quirk at Disneyland. At Disney World once their ticket is active the member (and their ID) don’t have to stay with their guests, they can go to different parks on different days if they want.
But to your issue, I think you should be fine, though I’ve not been to Disneyland since they started this requirement. When does the military member show their ID? As everyone is going through the turnstile?
I think Disney’s issue is that the AFS tickets be used by actual family/friends of the member and not someone that they scalped the tickets to. So even if you guys use a different kind of ticket I think you’ll be good showing his ID with their tickets. 😉
Hi Steve,
I see that we can use 2 days of tickets now and then the other 2 days in September. My question is this, does the military member (my son) have to be with all ticket holders everytime the ticket is used or just when activating them. For example, my husband and I may go in Septembe without our son. Can we use the tickets without him being there? They will be activated when we go in February. Thanks
Hi Brenda,
Disney World dos not require the military member to remain with their guests at all times. It is perfectly OK to use the tickets at different times (days) and at different parks. YOur sone just has to be there (with the whole party) to activate them.
Disneyland however has a different policy, they require the military member to enter with their guests on every day.
Have fun!
Thanks, we can’t wait to go!
I saw above in your answers regarding purchasing tickets more than once in the year period but I wanted to clarify. My family of 5 just went on R&R in December and my husband purchased the tickets for us 5 and my mom (so used all 6). My daughter and I are running the Princess Half in February and my husband will not be with us since he will be overseas at the time. Do you think I will be able to purchase us a set of the Salute tickets this time around? (I am bringing some girlfriends with me, too- I would love to be able to buy tickets at the Salute rate for them as well!) Possible? Crazy talk? Any thoughts would be great!
Hi there Heather,
It is six tickets during the year long offer (1 Oct 2012-28 Sept 2013), so if it was December 2012 you are talking about unfortunately you are done until a new offer period. If it was Dec ’11 you were talking about you are good to go.
Your next best option, though nowhere as good are the regular military discounted magic your way tickets from Shades of Green or your Base ITT.
Good luck with the race!!!
I know this is probably a silly question, but my brother was going to buy us tickets to Disneyland, but he wouldn’t be able to come with us for he is moving to Arizona and I do understand that it’s been said many times that the person purchasing the tickets must be present to activate them. BUT I was just wondering…what if we had notarized documents stating the names of who the tickets would be for and a photocopy of my brother’s military id & driver’s license. Would that be acceptable?
Hi Pauline,
No sorry.
The type of ticket you are talking about are the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. These tickets are sold at a very large discount. This is to enable military members the opportunity to spend time in the Disney parks WITH family and friends. Disney has put their rules in place to try to ensure that this is how the tickets are used. The military member (or their spouse) must activate the tickets in person (no exceptions, at all, ever) and Disneyland in California goes one step further requiring the military member to enter the park each day with their guests.
There is another type of military discounted Disney ticket sold at military bases. These are the same tickets sold to everyone by Disney at their parks but at a slight discount (4-8%). He could buy these for you. He needs to ensure they are ready for use and don’t have to be exchanged at the park with a military ID. Disney sends both types to the base ticket offices.
Thanks for posting this info. I have a question. My husband is in the National Guard, serving 1 weekend a month, 2 weeks a year. He was in training, active duty, last year until April. Is he eligible for the Armed Forces Salute tickets? I noticed that there is a requirement to show papers stamped that he was active duty as of last January…
Hi Rain,
Reserve and Guard members are eligible with just their ID (which looks identical to an active ID) there is no requirement to be on extended active duty to qualify for the AFS. I was a reservist for 26 years and used it every year they offered it.
Hi Steve,
I saw your post about the National Guard, my husband was a reservist at the Guard in California, and still has his military id, but expired. We are planning a trip to Walt Disney next month, can he still purchase the Military Appreciation Tickets for the discounted price, or at the local Air Force Base?
Hi Cynthia,
Unfortunately since he is no longer a Guardsman he isn’e eligible for most discounts.
The only one would be at WDW in Florida: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html in the months of Sept. and Jan.
I just want to make sure I am clear on the water parks and more option. The wate park option can be used on different days than the theme park days?? So it could be used on 8 different days if you wanted to go to the theme parks 4 days and then the water parks 4 days? Thanks for any clarification! I just recently found your website and it has lots of valuable information on it. Thanks!! 🙂
Hi Susan, welcome.
Yep, you have it right.
Think of the water park & more option as 4 entry tickets (like a movie ticket) to be used when you want.
Like you said, you could use them individually on different days from your theme park days, or on the same day you go to a theme park. You can use them one per day, or use multiple WP&M entrances on the same day (for instance a water park during the day, and Disney Quest at night).
HOpe that clears it up!
Hi Steve, My husband and I will be at Disney in early March, we are going to purchase the Military theme park tickets. My question is, can we buy them at the military base we live close to which is Fort Dix or do we have to get them at Shades of Green. Last time we got them we waited in line for almost 1 hour to purchase the tickets.
Hi Pam,
You are right the line can get long at Shades…
There are a couple kinds of military tickets for WDW, so just to be sure you have all the info I’ll talk about both.
The Armed Forces Salute tickets – Can be purchased at your local base (Ft. Dix) ticket office and Shades of Green, both without sales tax added. Or at Disney ticket booths with sales tax added. Tickets not purchased from Disney must be activated at a Disney ticket booth (theme park or water park), the Downtown Disney Guest Relations counter, or Disney Quest prior to use for park entry.
The regular military discounted Disney Magic Your Way tickets – Can be purchased at your local base (Ft. Dix) ticket office and Shades of Green only, without tax. Tickets sent to bases come in 2 varieties, those which are ready for use and those which have to be exchanged at a WDW ticket booth. Disney sends both kinds randomly (I’m told) to bases. Also Bases do not always carry all types of tickets (lengths & options) so check more than 2 or 3 weeks out as they may have to order them.
One last thing if you are staying at Shades of Green they will let you pre-pay for your tickets and have them waiting for you when you check in.
HI Steve I’m going to Disneyland in may and my sister is a spouse of the military and she wanted to get 3 park hoppers as a gift for my birthday, but does not want to go to the park. Would she be able to purchase them still for us? Or does she need to be present all 3 days?
Hi Melinda,
In order to use the Armed Forces Salute tickets, yes she does have to go with you every day (at Disneyland, WDW is different).
But there are the slightly discounted regular military Disney Magic Your Way tickets which you can use without her.
Tickets sent to bases come in 2 varieties, those which are ready for use and those which have to be exchanged at a WDW ticket booth. Disney sends both kinds randomly (I’m told) to bases. Also Bases do not always carry all types of tickets (lengths & options) so check more than 2 or 3 weeks out as they may have to order them.
Hi Steve
The Armed Forces Salute is it offered to the British Forces?
Thanks
Andy
Hey Andrew, Just for those issued a US military CAC (ID), usually those stationed in the US. See this page:http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/ very bottom left image.
Hi. I had a question about the 4-day salute hopper w/ wp&m. Is it 4 days at the theme parks and 4 days at the wp&m? So a total of 8 days?
Hi Desiree,
Yes and no…
You can use the WP&M on 4 days making 8 total days, but think of the water park & more option as 4 entry tickets (like a movie ticket) not days, which you can use whenever you want.
Like you said, you could use them individually on different days from your theme park days, or on the same day you go to a theme park. You can use them one per day, or use multiple WP&M entrances on the same day (for instance a water park during the day, and Disney Quest at night).
Hope this clears it up a bit, let me know!
Steve
Thank you. I can make it an 8 day vacation if I use the 4 wp&m on different days & the park hopper on another 4 days? Also since its the park hopper, I can go to the different parks on the 4 theme park days?
Thank you so much for the info. I am new to this.
Yep, you’ve got it right! Have fun!!!
Hi Steve,
My dad is purchasing the Salute to Military tickets and we will be headed to Disneyland in a few weeks. I understand that he will have to be present to enter the park each day, but will he have to be present EACH time we hop parks throughout the day? He most likely won’t want to do all of the same things that my siblings and I will want to do all day each day.
Thanks for your help!
Shannon
Hey Shannon,
I have to preface this with “I’m not truly a Disneyland expert” I’ve been, but quite a while ago, long before the Armed Forces Salute started.
Disneyland is different in this respect from WDW, they say on their website that: “Military member (or spouse) must accompany the persons using these tickets for Theme Park admission.”
I have heard from some readers that the member or spouse must enter with their guests, but I’m not sure how they monitor this. Does the turnstile advise the cast member that a military ticket has been scanned and then they ask to see an ID for the party? IDK?
Also not sure how this would effect hopping, cause as you say the party might want to split up.
Wish I could have been more help!!!
If you do find out let me know, here or via my contact page…
Hi Steve! I think you answered this but I’m not 100% sure. Are all Reservists eligible for the Armed Forces Salute or only active Reserve? My husband is in school on an Air Force scholarship and is currently Air Force Reserve- does that work?
Thanks!
Hi Jen,
That depends on which type of Reservist he is.
Disney uses the term “active reservist” though that isn’t an actual status. What they are trying to say is “Selected or Ready Reservist” or more simply current reservist. These Reservists have duty requirements through out the year with their unit and are paid to perform this duty. They have a CAC (military ID) like the one on this page: http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
They do not have to be on long active duty orders. And there is no way to tell them from a regular active duty member by looking at their CAC (ID) as they are identical.
An Individual Ready Reservist (IRR) performs no duty and receives no pay. They have separated form the military and simply been told to keep their uniforms for a period of time in case they are called back.
Here is my page with the ID guide Disney ticket workers use: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-World-Military-Discount-ID-Guide.html
Hope this helps, let me know! Steve
Thanks, Steve! This is helpful. He does have service requirements during the year and gets paid “active duty” pay for those times. I think he qualifies.
Sounds like it, his ID looks like this right? http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
My husband is deploying in early June and towards the end of June I would like to take 3 of our 4 daughter’s on vacation. There is so much information out there. Can you please advise me to a user friendly website? Thank you
Michelle
It can be overwhelming Michelle. I’ll give you my stock “favorite sites.”
The first is totally focused on first time visitors and run by my friend Dave. The others have been around for 15 years or so and are the “big” sites.
http://yourfirstvisit.net
http://allears.net/index.html
http://www.wdwinfo.com
http://www.disboards.com
Also check out the disney food blog if you’d like to learn more about the great food options at WDW, http://www.disneyfoodblog.com
My husband served 6 years active duty (tour to Iraq) and 4 years in the active reserves. His military card states that it expired as of September 2011.Does he qualify for the salute to military tickets?
Hi Nicole,
Unfortunately no, only current or retired members are eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute and Regular Military Disney Tickets.
But there is this one offer that anyone who served is eligible for, from Shades of Green.
Here is the only discount available for non-retired veterans, including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Hope this helps,
Steve
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF I GO WITH MY WIFE, THERES A CHANCE THAT I CAN BUY 6 TICKETS AND MY WIFE 6 MORE FOR A FAMILY GROUP OF 12. THE GROUP INCLUDE MY SONS , MY BROTHER MY SISTER. BROTHER IN LAW ,SISTER IN LAW NEPEWS AND NIECES AND MY MOTHER AND MOTHER IN LAW
Hello Rafael,
No Sorry, the limit is 6 per military member during this offer. The spouse can only activate the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets if the member doesn’t go.
Hoping someone can help us figure out what our options might be. My sisters husband is active military and so he bought 6 of the current heavily discounted WDW hopper tickets from his base in California for her, her son, and my family of four and we were all going to meet there. She is now pregnant and very sick. Not looking at this point like she will be able to make the trip from California to Florida next month. If she is unable to fly next month to meet us – I understand we can’t get our tickets activated. Could we have someone else that is active military meet us at the gate to activate them? Not trying to do anything wrong here at all but really hoping we won’t be out all of this money if my sister ends up unable to travel next month.
Appreciate any guidance or suggestions.
Thanks so much
Patty
Hi Patty,
You are correct that if she can’t come with you, either you will not be able to activate the tickets or need to find someone who will do it for you.
You would need a military member or spouse who has not already used up the member’s limit of 6 Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets during this offer period.
Also that person must activate a ticket for themselves (one of the 6 total allowed).
I saw comments about family members but are the salute tickets good for friends as well? There only has to be one person with a military ID, correct? They don’t need dependent IDs do they?
Cara that is corect, the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are for the military member to spend time with whoever they want.
You’ve probably already answered this but I just want to be 100% sure: the 6 tickets (3 day DL park hopper for us) can be purchased throughout the valid time period, right? They don’t all need to be bought at the same time?
My husband and I bought 2 tickets at 29 Palms USMC ITT (our last station). A friend decided she wanted to come with us so we went to the Nellis AFB ITT (the closest to us) and they told us that we could not buy the tickets because they needed to be purchased all at the same time and they even showed us some printed off piece of paper that supposedly said so. This upset me because we were never told this and there is no such information on the Disney site, which is where they said they got the info. I called the 29 Palms ITT and they said this information was “100% wrong” and that they would be willing to do the transaction over the phone and email the tickets to the Nellis ITT. Well, Nellis refused and was generally uncooperative so the 29 Palms people said we can either get the tickets from them or at the ticket window at DisneyLand. Is this true?
Hey there Ashley,
You’ve hit on one of my biggest frustrations and what has become the main reason for this site… miscommunication.
First, every time Disney renews these Salute offers they add in some silly new rules which don’t make sense. I then spend a couple months getting them to drop them.
Before they announce the Salutes they sign a contract with MWR. This spells out what MWR/ITT can and can’t do.
When I get Disney to drop the silly rules, I don’t know if they ever change the terms of the contract, or if some bases just never get the word (probably the latter).
But the having only one opportunity to buy tickets was deleted from this year’s salute very early. Off the top of my head I don’t even remember if it was still there on the start date.
Nellis is flat out wrong. Did your hubby mention he wanted to buy more? Could you go back (if they didn’t see you) and just buy the one you need, without mentioning the previous purchase? The way they’ve acted you’ll probably have to say he is deployed and you are going alone, lol…
There are some other options near DL and a by phone option, see this page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/On-Base-Tickets.html
Thanks for the info. I plan on launching a complaint with Nellis ITT not only because of this but their representative was very unhelpful and unwilling to even try to help us. Unfortunately both my husband and I were present when this situation arose. We’re going in 2 days and we need to get the ticket for our friend. 29 Palms ITT told me we could get it at the ticket window on property. Is this accurate?
It is, you’ll have to pay sales tax there (at DL) on top of the ticket price though.
Just FYI, we were just at Disneyland June 8-11 and bought our tickets at the park. Our tickets came out to $250 for 2 tickets total, so it doesn’t appear we paid the tax.
Hey Michelle,
That is unexpected, but Great!!!
Thanks Steve
Hi Steve,
I am unsure about this situation and just wanted an opinion or advice….
We are planning a family trip in November of this year to WDW and *if* the Armed Forces Salute is renewed, we plan to use it. The only thing is this- My husband is the military member and is not able to join us until 2 days into the trip. If I (as the military spouse) buy the 5 tickets- I can activate them at the gate, correct. My question is, will he be able to by the 6th ticket and activate it when he gets there? Or will they not allow that saying all 6 must be activated at the same time and he must be present to activate them? Or because I have only purchased 5, does that leave the 6th ticket available? I know this depends on if the renew the salute this year or not. I am just trying to budget since this trip is so expensive!!!!! Thanks!
Hi Julia,
Yep you’ll be able to do just what you said. You can activate the 5 and then once he is there he can do his, no problem.
Fingers crossed on the renewal!
Hi,
My brother is in the military. We we were there last week… We have the 3day hopper. We only used 2days of it. We were going to use the last day on sept. unfortunately my brother can’t go with us.
Can i still go there without my brother?
Hi Chilu,
The 3-day Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket is for Disneyland in Cali. The rules at DL are slightly different from those at WDW in FL.
The military member must enter each park with their party every time at DL, so unfortunately no, you can’t use them without him.
I’m sorry if this has been answered. My husband is a retired service member. Is it allowed that I purchase three armed forces salute tickets now for Walt Disney World for myself and my daughter and granddaughter, and then next month purchase the additional three tickets for myself, my husband and my other daughter. This would put me going two times. Is that allowed? Thanks in advance.
Yes, that’s just fine Robyn. As long a your first ticket is all used up (4 park days, and if you get the WPF&M option those 4 entrances)
Thanks so much! I just hadn’t read anything specific about the same person going two separate visits. Lucky me. Thank you again so much 😀
I tried to read through all of your comments to see if this question had been answered but didn’t see it, so please forgive me if it has!
Looking under your “Am I eligible to participate in the Armed Forces Salute?” section you mention that Metal of Honor recipients also qualify for the Salute tickets. Is this a specific metal of honor? We recently got out of the Army but my husband did receive a couple of metals for his time in Afghanistan. Just curious about the specifics on that.
Thanks!
Hi Melissa,
No problem.
The Medal of Honor is the very highest US military award possible, very few earn it (most posthumously) and it is presented in person by the President in a ceremony at the White House.
Ha! Now I feel a silly for asking, but thank you for the kind clarification 🙂
All the best!
🙂
Hello & thank you for posting the new Salute details.
My husband and I are annual passholders (we will activate our vouchers on 11/1/13). These are the DVC special offer PAPs which must be activated by December 2013, so we don’t really have the option to hold on to them.
We would like to use the Salute tickets for my parents to join us on our November 2013 and February 2014 trips. I understand we will need to purchase a ticket for my husband (active military), but I have questions.
I plan to purchase the member’s Salute ticket & 2 tickets for my parents in August, and activate those 3 in November.
Can I then purchase an additional set of tickets in January for my parents to use in February, or should I go ahead and purchase all of them prior to our first trip? (two tickets for each of them)
Also, assuming we only enter the park with the member’s salute ticket once (then save it and use our APs), can I activate those additional tickets in February using this same member ticket, since there will still be days left on it? Or again, should I just purchase and activate them all in November?
Are there any exceptions to the rule that one ticket must be used by the member or spouse, if we can prove (by our APs) that we with our party using the salute tickets?
Thank you for your help and this awesome resource.
Kelly R.
Hi Kelly,
During pervious offers those with passes (AP, FL, FL SP, etc) do not have to purchase one for the member as they already have more expensive tickets, I’m waiting on conformation that this will still be the case this year.
You will be able to activate two groups of 2 tickets with your ID if that is what you’d like to do.
Hi Steve,
Did you ever receive confirmation about whether the military member/spouse would have to activate one of the tickets in their name (only activate their guests), IF they both hold the more valuable PAP? My husband and I will have PAPs, but will want to use the Salute tickets for my parents.
Thank you for helping.
Kelly Rose
July reply below:
Steve says:
22 July 2013 at 12:22
Hi Kelly,
During pervious offers those with passes (AP, FL, FL SP, etc) do not have to purchase one for the member as they already have more expensive tickets, I’m waiting on conformation that this will still be the case this year.
You will be able to activate two groups of 2 tickets with your ID if that is what you’d like to do.)
Hi there Kelly,
That is the case again this time around. I just confirmed it in person with my family last weel.
Awesome! Thank you, Steve.
Dual Military question.
If we are both “eligible service members” can we both buy four tickets each and use them as a family of four for eight days? The ticket purchasing details says “eligible member” or spouse. So is “or spouse” the dependent spouse? Is the “or spouse” the other “eligible service member” spouse?
Thank you for your time.
Hi Paula,
Each service member has their own individual eligibility for 6 tickets. The “spouse” thing is for dependent spouses. So you’ll be good to go!
Outstanding! Thank you for the clarification. Enjoy our day.
I just bought tickets at the gate at Disneyland on 21 July 2013 and was not charged tax.
That is awesome! Did they say why?
Tammy I just learned tonight some partial info.
Initially they were booking the AFS discounts in the mermaid rooms and they the discount quit working. IDK if this is on purpose or a bug. I’ll be checking with Disney.
My husband is Army National Guard & I have an ID. If I wanted to go with our 2 children along with a friend and her 2 children, could I purchase the 6 tickets? My husband has NO interest in going back until our next BIG trip Nov. ’14.
Yes, as the spouse of a military member you are eligible Ellen.
I am currently depoyed and have a family of 6 so , I am assuming that I should be able to get enough tickets for us to attend in february once the new tickets come out. I just have a couple of questions.
1) at what age do children have to pay or have a ticket?
2) My parents want to come and since I have maxed out the 6 ticket limit, is there a way that I would be able to get other tickets at a discounted price for them?
Sam
Hey Samuel,
Disney starts charging at 3 so you’ll need all 6.
you can get the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets for your parents from a base ticket office. THese are only slightly discounted though.
Hi Steve!
We have 5 children one of whom is 3. What are the ages for the salute tickets for WDW? I’m being told 3 AND under is free. But others say UNDER 3 is free.
Thank you!
Hi Rebecca,
At Disney under 3 is free. The regular tickets are 3-9 and 10 and over, but the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are 3 and over. Just one ticket for all.
With 5 kids your family is allowed 7 tickets for you, your spouse, and your dependent kids.
The details state that the member or spouse must use one of the Salute tickets for him/herself. If my husband (retired military member) and I both have military annual passes, can we use all the Salute tickets for our grandchildren? We are planning to take 3 grandchildren for 8 days and would like to use all the tickets for them. I would think using a military status annual pass with ID would suffice, but not sure if Disney sees it that way. Has anyone had experience with this?
Hi Catherine,
Disney world does allow this as you already have the more expensive passes
Thank you so much, Steve. I’ve been fretting so much over this while wanting to get the annual passes so we can go 2-3 times during the year. While on the topic, do you know if annual passes (military variety) begin counting the year on the date of purchase or pick-up at the base ticket office or if they begin on the first day we enter WDW parks?
And…thank you so much for this site. I am so happy to have found it and have found a wealth of info on it already. I had no idea so many benefits existed at WDW for military families.
Thanks so much Catherine,
As far as I know the APs purchased on base are “exchange vouchers” which have to be switched for the real ticket once there. When you do that your year begins.
We are going to Disney in November and will be on property for 6 days and in the parks for 5 days. Should we get the military salute tickets then a discounted one day ticket for the 5th day or is there a better more cost affective option?
Hi Lacie,
the price for the 5-day Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way hopper tickets is $341.00 adult, $323.00 child. That is quite an increase over your AFS tickets.
Check these prices on the regular tickets you can add 1-day tickets for $93/$98 adult non-hopper, $87/$92 child non-hopper, $133.00 adult hopper, $127.00 child hopper.
Wow that was fast. Thanks so much!!
Hi Steve,
I already purchased and used 4 AFS tickets at Disneyland resort Dec 2012. Now I’m planning to visit WDW end of this month. I know there is a 6 AFS tickets ristriction. So does it mean number of AFS tickets for WDW I could buy in this time frame is 2 now? Or still could I buy 2 AFS tickets for DLR and 6 for WDW? I read their homepage and this site carefully. But couldn’t find the answer. I hope that means I still could purchase 6 AFS tickets for WDW. Right?
Hi Ken,
The answer is that you can use 6 at both. The two ticketing systems are not connected. So you have 2 remaining at DL and 6 available at WDW.
Right now you can’t find this anywhere (other than asking) but WDW and I have talked about a formal announcement in the future.
Great! Thanks for your quick response. I think your site and knowledge are very helpful for so many people. I appreciate your huge effort to keep helping the others. Thanks!
So at WDW with the 4 day park hopper ticket, you have 4 days correct? Say we go to all 4 parks Saturday-Tuesday, on Thursday we couldn’t go back to MK for a few hours right cause we used the tickets 4 days already?
Yep sorry Michael, you’d need a 5 -day ticket for that.
My spouse is a service connected disabled veteran does he still qualify for the AFS?
If they are 100% DAVPRM they do. Less than that unfortunately do not.
I understand only the 4 day park hopper is available for military and vets at DW. If we only stayed for 2 days this October, what is the latest we can use the other 2 days? The end of the salute period in Sep 2014?
Hi Kevin,
Well, the Disney Armed Forces Salute salute timeframe is 29 Sept 2013 through 27 Sept 2014. The tickets are valid that whole time period.
But there are also the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets which are from 1 to 10 days.
The AFS tickets are actually cheaper than a 2 day regular ticket so would be the way for you to go, but wanted to be sure you were aware of the regular military discount.
Hi planning to take my family to Florida in 2014 was wondering if the discounts are available to members of the British armed forces?
If so what discounts are available and on which parks?
Kind regards
Hi Trevor,
Thanks for checking out the site!
The only 2 discounts for non-US military are: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/non-us-military-members-eligible-to-stay-at-shades-of-green/ & http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
But both are for those serving with US forces and require a US issued ID like the one at the bottom left of this page: http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
Hi Steve,
Thanks for all the great information! It is greatly appreciated.
We are headed down to WDW in January for our wedding. I am active duty and have an Annual Pass. I wanted to buy some of the Armed Forces Salute Tickets for my parents, sister and niece. I know it says that one of the tickets needs to be for the military member, but since I already have an AP does that still apply? I will be with them when they active them at the park.
Thanks again!
Hi Curtis,
You’ll be all set. Those with passes (annual and others) don’t need their own Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket as they already have a more expensive ticket. I have a FL Seasonal Pass and get AFS tickets for my guests.
Steve
I want to buy AFS tickets as a wedding present for my niece and her fiance. Can I purchase just the two tickets for them, or do I have to purchase one for me, too? I know that I have to be there when they activate their tickets.
Hi Rick,
If you have any kind of annual pass you don’t need to have a Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket. But if you don’t you’ll need to have one for yourself too.
Under the top 10 things to know about the Disney Armed Forces Salute you indicate that for Disneyland in Anaheim the military person/spouse must accompany the other members of the family into the park each time and day. I know someone who purchased tickets yesterday at our local base and she was told that is not the case; that the military person must only accompany on the first admission. Can you confirm or clarify this please? Is it also true that the tickets don’t expire until Sept. 2014; thus one could use the 3 days at various times through the year if wanted?
Thank you,
Natalie
Hi Natalie,
I can confirm it. This is a very recent change by Disneyland, bringing them into conformity with WDW. The member no longer needs to accompany their guests for every entrance. Just for the ticket activation.
I just edited the post to reflect this, thanks!!!
Hello,
Thanks so much for your awesome blog! We’re planning to go with my mother (spouse of a retired navy officer) as the member. My question is…on the visits after the first one, can anyone use her ticket? In other words, if we buy a total of 4 (including member), on visits 2-4, can we bring a 5th person instead of the member? I ask because I think my mother would have her fill of Disneyland after just a day. Thanks!
Hi Alma,
Sorry, absolutely not. All Disney ticket whether military discounted or not are non transferable. They use fingerprint scanners to prevent this.
Hey, I just wanted to ask if these tickets are also available for soldiers of an european military ( luxembourg) or for people from the governement?I dont know where I can find the answers of my questions so maybe someone knows who or where I could find help? :)) thanks
Hi Christina,
Thanks for checking out the site!
The only 2 discounts for non-US military are:
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/non-us-military-members-eligible-to-stay-at-shades-of-green/
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
But both are for those serving with US forces and require a US issued ID like the one at the bottom left of this page:
http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
thank you steve for your prompt answer 🙂
hmm… I m not serving for the US military so I have to buy me a normal Ticket.
And by the way the site you posted dont work, there is always an error on this page 🙁
Thank you
Thanks, fixed the links. Steve
.. I forgot to say that we ( my daughter and I) are going to celebrate my daughters 6th birthday in disneyworld 😉
Can you expand on the option of honorably discharged vets (non retired) having access to the AFS deal? Do I have to stay at the SOG resort or another Disney property? I’m visiting in January during the SOG offer, but haven’t chosen a hotel yet. Thanks.
Hi Peter,
During their stay at Shades, non-retired vets can use the Shades ticket office to purchase all ready for use tickets that they offer.
Every ticket they sell is ready for use except the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. These tickets require activation by WDW and non-retired vets do not qualify for by Disney’s rules.
So bottom line you’d only qualify for the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets.
Am retired military and want to send my daughter and her family to WDW for Thanksgiving. Any discounts? What do I do? Thanks Andy
Hi Andy,
You’ll want to buy her the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets at the nearest base.
She and her family can use these without you going along.
Prices would be just like these at Shades of Green: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Hi Steve,
Your site is SO helpful, thank you! We are planning a trip in Feb with my dad and our kids, he is a retired vet. My questions are these:
He retired over 30 years ago, does that still count? He was wondering if it was only recent vets.
My second question is this, we live in Seattle, do you know if there are any ticket offices close by, such as in Fort Lewis? I’ve tried calling a few places, but am having trouble getting to a person. I saw your links to some ticket offices that take orders over the phone, but where are they located? Do you fax your veteran info into them as well as credit card info at the same time or can you talk to someone on the phone who can do it for us?
thank you, Melanie
Hi Melanie,
Thanks!!!
Yes he’s still qualified as long as he has a valid retired military ID.
Joint Base Lewis McChord does have a ticket office, here is their link: http://www.jblmmwr.com/leisure_travel.html
Beale AFB in CA, which I mention in this page does sell some items over the phone, it does involve faxed documents.
Hi, you have a wonderful site with great information! I wanted to verify that the 4 day park hopper AFS tickets can be used on nonconsecutive days at WDW. I know blackout dates apply, but if I want to use it December 13, 2013 and then again December 15-17, 2013 would that be allowed? Thanks!
Hi Jamie, Thanks!!!
Yes you can do exactly that. You have till 27 Sept. 2014 to use all 4 days and they can be used any way you want, individually or all together.
Thanks! You are an amazing asset to have for planning! Greatly appreciate the help and information!
Great site!!! If I use 4 of the AFS salute tickets now, can I use the remaining 2 later in 2014? Purchasing 4 now and 2 later? I will use a ticket both times.
Thanks,
Wade
Hi Wade,
Yes you sure can do that. You have until 27 Sept to buy and use the other 2.
As a retired Army officer, I want to buy 6 tickets for the 4 day hopper pass Armed Forces Salute at $169 each. I am not near any base ticket office without traveling 4 hours or more.
I am not staying at the Shades of Green. How do I buy tickets from the Shades of Green in advance without physically being there at the Shades of Green?
Thanks.
Hi David,
Unfortunately you can’t. The pre-purchase of tickets (about 2 weeks out) at Shades of Green is only for their guests.
So you’ll have to but your tickets once you arrive. You have three options. Go by Shades to get them, use the Orlando ITT, or buy them direct from Disney at their ticket booths (with sales tax added).
Steve
My father-in-law wondered if he could use these discounted tickets he can get to take 4 grandkids to Disneyland one day and 4 different grandkids to Disleyland 2 weeks later. Are the tickets transferable?
No, unfortunately they are not Jill. This is Disney’s rule on all their tickets. They prevent it by using fingerprint scanning.
Thank you for providing such a wonderful collection of helpful information.
I wanted to clarify #10: “At Disney World, one idea is to opt for the Water Park & More Option (or add it to you hopper ticket). The WP&M visits can be used on non-park days to fill out a longer stay.”
Does this mean you could purchase the AFS Park Hopper with the Water Park & More option and go to the DisneyWorld parks for 4 days and then still have 4 visits available for the water parks, espn, etc… ?
We will be there 7 days total. It would be great to have 4 days at the park + extra passes for WP&M to use during the remaining time.
Thanks!
Hi Jen,
Yes that is correct. The WPF&M option visits are totally separate from the theme park days, so yes you could get 8 days out of the single ticket. Keep in mind if you just get the cheaper WPF&M option the theme park days are non-hopping. If you want to hop between parks on the same day you’ll need the more expensive ticket with both options.
Can sons and daughters of a military personel still purchase discounted military disneyland tickets
Hi Dan,
Well, Disney discounts are for the member and or spouse depending on the offer. I do not believe children have ever been eligible. It may be that some bases would sell them to anyone who had access to the base, which might be what you are thinking.
But if you are an adult without base access, as I assume, the answer would be no. Your parents can buy them for you though.
Can I use my dd214 as a form of military identification?
Hi Cristy,
Not for the Disney Armed Forces Salute, only valid IDs. Since you are asking about a DD-214 I’m guessing you separated without retiring, which makes you ineligible for most Disney discounts.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disneys-Armed-Forces-Salute-FAQ.html#Am-I-Eligible
There is the this one discount though, available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Hope this helps,
Steve
Thank you
Our trip to Disney World is not until November 2014. When do you normally find out if the offer is being continued? I’m a little worried about hotels filling up if I wait to book until September. Also, how does it work once I am ready to book the hotel? Do I just mention the discount over the phone? Is there a special website to go to book it? Thank you.
Hi Cindy,
I actually just posted on this yesterday.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/disney-armed-forces-salute-october-2014-through-2015-when-to-expect-a-renewal-announcement/
As for making an AFS reservation you’ll need to do it via phone with Disney or through a travel agent. It can’t be done online.
Does the purchasing sponsor have to be present to activate the tickets? My husband is active military and we are taking our family of 6 + 2 dependents of another military personnel. However, the other military personnel will not present (he would pre-purchase his children’s ticket at the local base beforehand). Will Disneyland allow all 8 activations?
Hi Jane,
Unfortunately this won’t work with Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. The purchase process is not relevant, what matters is the activation. Each military member may activate up to 6 tickets (one for themselves). There is an exception for large families, but you are taking someone else’s kids not 6 of your own.
Your friend will have to buy the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets for his kids on base. These are not as good a deal, only 4-8% off where the AFS tickets are 50% off.
Here is info on the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
And here are the prices at Shades of Green, the prices on base would be within a dollar: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
Hi my aunt who is an active duty in the military bought the 3-day pass for disneyland in california, she unfortunately has duty the weekend that we were planning to go. Would we still be able to use the ticket? I have a military ID myself since my dad used to be in the military. Do they check for the military ID when they scan the ticket at the gate??
Hi Kristen,
Just to be sure, she bought the 3-Day Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets for $129, not Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets (more expensive)?
The Disney Armed Forces Salute has very strict rules because of the large discount and the intent for the military member to use these tickets to spend time with family and friends in the Disney parks. The military member must activate all of their tickets at Disneyland in person with their whole party. They must have a ticket for themselves. After activation the tickets may be used separately.
Can you all go together to activate the tickets prior to the weekend? YOu could use them without her over the weekend without her after that.
As to your ID it should have been turned in when he left the service, it isn’t still valid is it? Anyway child dependents are not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute.
If you have a DD214 HONORABLE DISCHARGE? ARE YOU ABLE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS OFFER? WHERE WOULD I PURCHASE THE TICKETS?
Hi bias,
There are no discounts available directly from Disney, such as this Disney Armed Forces Salute.
But there is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
I am a retired military spouse and wanted to take a trip to
DisneyWorld with my sister. Am I able to purchase a ticket for her for the
AFS? It was recommended by Shades of Green.
As long as you have a valid spouse ID Deann, you can purchase for yourself and your sister.
Have fun.
My son in law is in the national guard, our family is traveling to Disney in March, there will be 7 of us: son in law, myself, his wife and sister along with her husband and two children ( total 7 ) .
would we all be able to buy the discount 4 day hoppers ? or would 1 need to be excluded ?
Also .. and this is very important : my son in law, myself and his wife will be going on March 10th and the rest of family can not join us until March 14th , is it possible for us to get all tickets at once and activate the family members who will join us on the 14 when they get there ?
we need to use 3 tickets on the 10th of march
AND 4 more on the 14th . please advise ! Thank you !! Roxanne
Hi Roxanne,
At Disney under 3 is free (you didn’t mention the kid’s ages) so if one of them is under 3 you only need 6 tickets.
But if you need 7, as you mentioned 6 is the limit he can use. There is an exception for large families, but it is for a single family (Mom, dad, their dependent kids).
So you’ll need one ticket of another type. The cheapest would be a Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way ticket, either from His base ticket office or Shades of Green.
Here are Shades prices, base’s will be within a dollar: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Also you shouldn’t have any problem activating 3 tickets the 10th and then the other 3 later (the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets) do not need to be activated).
Have fun!
I am looking to go to wdw next month we just purchased the salute the military 4 day hopper pass..Do we have to use it at the different parks or can we alternate wdw with epcot for instance if we want can we go to wdw on Monday and Wednesday and then Epcot Tuesday and Thursday or can we just go to wdw on 4 different days…
Hi Angela,
Good question.
You can use your tickets at any park you desire, any park any day. So yes you could do the Magic Kingdom on Mon/Wed and Epcot on Tues/Thurs.
I assumed you meant the Magic Kingdom when you said WDW. Walt Disney World (WDW) is the entire huge resort area which encompasses all 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, resorts, and other entertainment areas.
I purchased 5 Armed Forces Salute tickets for Disney World in February 2014. We are considering going back to Disney World in Spetember 2014. Can we purchase 3 AFS tickets, or are we limited to 6 for the entire promotion?
Thank you!
It is 6 for the current promotion Judy, so you have one left.
Hi,
I’m stationed overseas and our ticket office does not sell disney tickets. I’m supposed to be going on leave in a few weeks and surprising my girlfriend with a trip to disneyland. How do I go about buying tickets ahead of time through the disney salutes program? I can buy them at the park itself correct?
Hi Taylor,
You could ask your base ticket office if they will order them even though they don’t carry them.
Vance AFB may assist, see this page mid way down.
And failing those, yes you can buy them once there from Disney (plus tax)or Shades of Green.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disneys-Armed-Forces-Salute-FAQ.html
My son is a military child but dad & I never married can I still purchase a disney ticket with military discount for him?
No, unfortunately you can’t Dafnee.
The discounts are for the member and their spouse in their place. Children are not eligible.
Hi Steve! Does the military member that purchases the ticket have to be the one to activate them? My husband is in the national guard and our base does not have a travel office. We have friends that are active duty that offered to purchase them for us so that we wouldn’t have to pay taxes in WDW or visit shades of green (we arrive late at night).
Thank you very much! I love your site – it has been extremely useful!
Hi there Michelle,
Thanks!
The purchase on base is in no way tied by individual to the activation at Disney.
All that Disney cares when you go to activate them on property is that you have the exchange certificates (what they call the tickets purchased on base) in your hand and that you are eligible to activate them.
Also if staying at a Disney resort, this will allow you to link your ticket (vouchers) to your My Disney Experience account and make FastPass Plus reservations 60 days out!
Have fun!!!
Do they offer discounts on just a one day ticket?
Hi Leza,
Yes there are the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets, but these are only slightly discounted (4-8% off). The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are over 50% off! the four day AFS ticket costs less that a MYW 2 day. If there is any chance you can do 2 or more days this is the way to go.
I had seen where the military and their families could go into disneyland with up to 6 people for free. Can you tell me more about this or where I can find out more? My husband is 100% disabled. Thank you we are planning on June the 9th till the 13th thank you.
Hi Pam,
Unfortunately there is no free offer.
Back in 2009 Disney had a free ticket for the military member and discounted tickets for family and friends, but that was the last year with anything free.
What we have now id the Disney Armed Forces Salute, highly discounted tickets and resort rooms. As a 100% Permanently Service Connected Disabled Veteran (he is this right?), he is eligible.
See this page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
Hi, we got to California with the intent to have my husband’s grandparents to take us to Disneyland, it ends up that their passes are blacked out for the dates we are here. My wonderful husband neglected to double check before we left, so we did not buy tickets before we left our Army installation. My question is, will we be able to buy military discounted tickets at the disneyland gate?
Yes Megan you sure will, they sell them at the DL gate (no tax added).
Perfect! Thank you so much for your quick response. 🙂
Can you upgrade 2 day base ticket to an Armed Forces Salute 4 day hopper with WP&M?
I do believe if you take an unused 2-day base ticket to a Disney ticket booth they will let you upgrade it Mindy.
Thank you so much!
If we get a 4 day hopper with the water park added for 198. We have to go to the theme parks and the waterparks or whatever all in four days right? Or do we have the option of going to them other days?
Hi Cindy,
The ticket is valid on any day until 27 Sept 2014. With the options you asked about you get 4 theme park days and 4 entrances the the Water Park Fun and More options.
Read more here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Disney-Water-Park-Fun-and-More.html
I am planning on going in August to Disneyworld. I have gotten tickets before so that’s not a problem. I was just wondering If I arrive on Tuesday go to the parks Wednesday thru Friday using up 3 days. Relaxing on saturday and then going back on sunday is that acceptable? Can I even do that with the military ticket? I’m used to just going all four days in a row but i know during the summer it can be hot and humid. So that was my main concern. Thanks in advance.
Yep Shannon, you sure can. You have till 27 Sept to use all 4 days. We often use the same ticket during a couple trips.
We have purchased the AFS 4 day tickets and we have the vouchers in our possession…. Since we have been looking around at other things to do while we are down there is it possible to upgrade to the WPF&M option at the gate when validating the tickets we have?
Yes it sure is Brian, for $29 plus tax each ticket at a Disney Ticket or Guest Services window.
Thanks for the quick reply sir….We leave in 2 hours…..lol….Awesome site with unparalleled great information.
Hi,
I was wondering… If my husband is active duty and I am national guard are we both allowed to purchase tickets?
Thanks.
Yep you sure do Serena.
You are both eligible for 6 tickets during this offer.
That is great! Would you suggest calling for the tickets or both of us going to the ticket base on fort bliss? When I called the ticket office on post to ask that question they seemed confused so I don’t want them to deny both of us being able to purchase tickets.
Hey Serena, they can’t deny you. You are both eligible as military members.
Okay, thank you. If for some odd reason they do, I will show them this conversation. But thank you, youhelped a ton!
Hi Steve! Your site is so great and I have learned so much! My dad is retired with 40 years of service so he will be purchasing our tickets. With my dad and stepmom, there are three in my family and 4 in my brother’s family so we will be short 3 tickets. Would my dad just go ahead and purchase the regularly discounted military tickets at the same time he purchases the 6 AFS tickets? Does he purchase those at the same location he gets the AFS tickets? Also, I am curious about the Magicbands. Do you know anything about them? We will be staying at a Disney resort and I have read that everyone who stays at a Disney resort will receive one. I was just wondering if the AFS discount for the resort would prevent us from getting the Magicbands. Thank you so so much for all of your information!
Hey there Rebekah, thanks!
Yes he can purchase the regular discounted tickets at the same time and there is no issue with using FastPass Plus. If staying at a Disney resort you’ll get Magic Bands ahead of time, and if staying elsewhere you can get them when you arrive.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/z-highlight-2/all-you-need-to-know-about-disney-world-fastpass-plus-for-the-military-traveler/
Thanks again, Steve! Looking forward to hearing about the renewal!
Hi , my brother wanted to buy us tickets to disneyland as a wedding gift to us since he wont be able to make it to the wedding. He will start training that week. Is he able to purchase them for us?
Hi Allison,
Sorry the purpose of the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets is not that they be used as gifts. They are for the military member to spend time with family and friends in the Disney parks.
He can buy you the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets. These are only slightly discounted.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
I purchased the military appreciation 3day park hopper. I was told i dont have to go 3 days in a row however i do have to use them within 13 days of my first visit. Is this correct?
No Evie, that is not true. the only expiration on the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets id 27 Sept 2014. Your 3 days can be used on any (individual) day between now and then.
Thank you Steve!
One more quick question, will i need to bring the e-ticket with me every time i go or will i be given one regular ticket to use all 3 times?
When you activate your ticket they will give you a valid one, which you will use each time you go.
Thank you so much steve
Steve, My family plans to stay at SOG in Oct 2014. We hope they cont the 4 day Disney Armed Forces Salute. Is the 6 tickets limited to an annual promotion or lifetime? We purchased 3 tickets in April 2012. Would we be able to get four in 2014? When do they usually announce the new promotions? Thanks for all the great info
Hi Nina,
The 6 ticket limit is for the current promotion, which runs from 20 Sept 2013 through 27 Sept 2014. So should there be a follow-on offer you’ll be reset to zero and will be allowed however many they allow in that offer.
Last year Disney announced in late July, it was early August the year before.
Dad served in Army from 1967-1974. Honorable Discharge. Died in 2002 and in 2010 my mom (married since 1969 to dad and not remarried, age 65) obtained disability benefits based on my dad’s young death from heart disease due to Agent Orange.
Does she qualify for the $169 4-day park hopper tickets?
Hi Shan,
Does She have a military spouse ID card (not a VA card). It would look like the bottom right on this page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-World-Military-Discount-ID-Guide.html
Dear Steve, My husband is a recent 100% qualified disabled vietnam vet. He has a military card with a status grade of DAVPRM.. We are going to Disney World in July. We will be using the parks for 5 days. We also have 4- 1 day park hopper passes already , that I won at a charity function.. We are bringing our family of son and wife and daughter and husband, also grandkids a 2 yr. old, two 5 yr. olds, one 6 yr. old, one 10 yr. old and an infant. Can we only get 6 tickets only. how can we get the best deal. I read something about being able to purchase the amount we need with the military salute tickets? Can you please help me out. Lucy I thought the web site was informative. We are new to all the benefits. Thank you so much..
Hi Lucy,
So it sounds like 11 people 3 and over?
In your family’s situation you are limited to 6 Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. So the next best military deal would be the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets.
You can get both types of tickets at Base ticket offices (they may need to order them so allow time), the Orlando ITT, or Shades of Green.
You can get the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets direct from Disney but will also pay tax.
Here are the prices for the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets at Shades, base/ITT prices will be within a dollar.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
For more info see:
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/On-Base-Tickets.html
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Orlando-ITT-Ticket-Office.html
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Military-Discount-Ticket-Sales.html
Hope this helps,
Steve
Can you verify the info on large families? We have 5 kids and will need 7 tickets, and have not been able to get an answer on this policy from WDW cast member chat. We are staying on property at S.Springs in August 2014.
Thanks!
Yes you can do this Sheri, but only directly through Disney ticket windows. You can’t do this at most base ticket offices, some will though.
Hi Steve,
I’m retired military. Taking my immediate and some extended family to WDW. Immediate family, including myself, would like to stay a week (7 day pass). However, would like to use the military discounts for some of the extended family members as they’re only staying 4 days. Will this be an issue if I don’t also have the military ticket, but will be present at the park to activate? Since I’ve already purchased the 7-day pass, would hate to have to also purchase a military ticket for myself just to activate the other military tickets.
Hi Ken,
You’ll be just fine. You do not need to purchase on for yourself, though you do have to keep that option open (keep one of the 6 available for your later use). So you’ll be able to activate up to 5 for you family and friends.
We are taking a trip to Flordia and meeting my parents there. They offered to take our children to Disneyworld without us. We can be there with ID to help activate their tickets but are they allowed to use this promotion if our children are going with our parents and we are not buying tickets? So the tickets would be for my parents and my children and we can be there to show ID.
Hi Kimberly,
This is a quote from a WDW ticket CM I know “This has always been the policy, although maybe not stated that way. If six tickets are activated, one must be for the service member. If five or fewer total tickets, the service member does not have to use one of the tickets. This for example, allows a person with an Annual Pass to not have to get a AFS ticket for themselves.”
So I do think this is doable!
I am going to Disney World in January 2015 for marathon weekend and probably won’t use all 4 days of the salute ticket. I plan on going to Disneyland in August 2015. Can I use the left over days from my Disney World ticket or do I need to buy a Disneyland ticket?
No unfortunately not Tina, they are actually separate companies.
The 4-day Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket is about the price of a regular 2-day so if you use 2 or more at WDW you will be even or ahead.
Thanks for answering my question Steve! Now I have one more. So does that mean I can buy 6 salute tickets for Disney World and 6 salute tickets for Disneyland or is it 6 salute tickets total?
It is 6 at each Tina. 🙂
Is this offer available for ex servicemen who were honorably discharged, but who did not “retire” from the service?
Hi Letha ,
Unfortunately not, there are no discounts available for those who separated directly from Disney or the military.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Hope this helps,
Steve
We already purchased 3 tickets in March for our family of 3. Can we purchase 3 more again before the expiration then? Thank you.
Yes you sure can Tami.
I am an annual passholder and will be traveling with my friend. Can I purchase one of my six military salute tickets for my friend and have it activated without purchasing one for myself?
Yes you sure can Christine.
If I purchase the current salute tickets (through 9/27/14) when do they expire/how long do I have to use them..
Till 27 Sept 2014 Tiffany
When purchasing tickets- Does reserves include active and inactive reserve as long as they have an ID?
Unfortunately Tracy inactive reserves do not qualify for discounts from Disney.
Three questions 🙂 (thanks for the great blog btw!) Disneyland
(1) can the tickets be activated at the park, but not used that day? For example: can a serviceman and family/friends be at the park to activate the tickets, but no one goes into the park that day?
(2) if we have 6 tickets, but only 4 people total on the first initial activation …. can we activate the remaining 2 tickets as well?
(3) after the initial activation, does the ticket require the serviceman to be there (for days 2 and 3)?
Hey Daniel,
Yes, they sure can be.
Most likely not, Disney requires the person the ticket is being activated for to be there. Some cast members may do it though, just ask when you are there.
No, once active the member does not need to accompany their guests (even on day 1). In the past they had to at DL but they did away with this requirement last year.
Would the serviceman need to activate their ticket on that same day, or have a ticket present as well? Are the fingerprints taken that day?
Is it possible for the serviceman to buy on base one ticket for a son/daughter, and be present to activate the ticket, but not have a ticket for himself?
The member and the guests they are activating tickets for must all be present for the activation process.
Disneyland takes pictures of multi-day tickets holders vs fingerprints as they do at WDW.
The only way the member can activate a Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket for others without one of their own is if they are an annual passholder.
Just get one for yourself and however many you need the first time (you don’t need to use yours), then as you need more (up to the limit) activate those.
Hi
When the tickets are activated and photo and finger prints taken on the first visit, does the military ID person need to come every other visit.
Also, my friend with her child thought about joining us, she has a brother in camp in Georgia, he could order them from Pendleton, could my sister ID more than 6 people do you think, would that work.
I have read with a bigger family SOG may sell you more than 6. tickets. There is 7 in my family and one for my sister, the military person. Do you think they would sell us 8.
Steve, sorry for all the questions, it’s just great to get answers.
Hi Liz,
No problem!
Once activated, the party does not need to stay together.
No unfortunately the limit is 6. Your sister could get more (the number she needed IF she and her husband had more that 4 dependent children. Sorry but this would only be for them. This exception is not for people who are not in her immediate family.
Im a retired Puerto Rico US National Guard. Do I qualify for any of these discounts.
My active peers gave told me they get all the benefits when they visits WDW. Is this correct?
Yes you sure are qualified Maryland, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disneys-Armed-Forces-Salute-FAQ.html#Am-I-Eligible
I plan to purchase 6 tickets for a trip in Nov. 2014.
1. There seems to be just one price for them. Is this for all ages then? I have two grandkids attending 10 and 6.
2. Is the hopper and the water park packages mutually exclusive? Meaning if I want to go the the water park on one day and Epcot another, I will need both packages for $354?
3. I plan to order from Camp P. Should I just call and see when the 2014-2015 tickets are available.
Thanks , I will be spending many hours going through your web looking for suggestions on making this a memorable vacation for our grandkids. So any pointers are welcome.. 😎
Al
Hi there Al,
The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are one price for all ages (a huge discount for both adults and kids).
There are 3 types of Salute tickers, hopper, water park fun and more, or both options together. See this page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
The hopper allows you to go to 2 or more different theme parks on the same day. the WPF&M allows 4 entrances to the water parks and other venues on top of your 4 park days.
See this for the WPF&M venues: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Disney-Water-Park-Fun-and-More.html
If you want water parks and theme parks you’d need either the water park fun and more option, or both options together. Which depends on if you want to park hop or not.
My father in law is retired from the air national guard. My husband has a military ID but it expired a couple of months ago. My father in law cannot travel. If he gets the tickets for us, is there any way we could get them activated without him there? (Being that he cannot go on a plane across country)
No, unfortunately that is not allowed Claudia. Your husband is no longer eligible to activate the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. So your father or his spouse must be there to activate them.
your option would be the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
If you didn’t use all six tickets from the year before do they transfer over to the next year. Used only 4 last year so this year would we have 8 tickets to use?
Hi Derek,
The Disney Armed Forces Salute offer/tickets do not run on the calendar or federal fiscal year. They have an offer period i.e. inclusive dates (which correspond to Disney’s fiscal year which is based on the work week not the end of a month).
You can purchase more than once during an offer, up to the offer limit. This is currently 6 for both the current offer and the upcoming offer.
The current offer ends 27 Sept. The next offer starts the day after and runs through 3 Oct 2015.
There is no carryover and unused tickets expire at the end of the offer.
We only used two days of our park hopper passes. We have pcs’d and lost our tickets. Is there anyway that we can get a replacement ticket for that one day?
Hi Candy, Do you have the ticket numbers? Disney usually requires those for replacement. You’d need to go in person to do so. They “might” also be able to retrieve them using name and address.
I am an USAF veteran 1966-1969. Am I eligible for the discounted Armed Forces Salute tickets at Disneyworld in Orlando?
Thanks
Hi Phil,
Thanks for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available for those who separated directly from Disney.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Do you have teacher discounts?
Amy
Hi Amy,
You are a little confused, this is an informational website run by a retired military member for military members to get info on these discounts.
I’m not associated with any theme parks and don’t offer discounts of my own.
If we buy our tickets on base do we still need to show military id at activation?
Yes you sure do Sarah, either the member or spouse must activate the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets.
This is to prevent giving or selling them to unauthorized people.
Are WWII vets eligible.for the military salute tickets?
Hi Nancy,
They are if they served for 20 years in the military and then retired.
if not then see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Hi! I recently read that if you buy 4 day hopper passes but don’t “hop” they stretch into 8 one day tickets. Is this true?
No Sarah, sorry. That is totally false.
The only way to stretch the Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket to 8 days is to get the Water Park Fun & More option and use the 4 WPF&M visits for 4 non park days.
Thanks for the reply!
I have 2 Armed Forces Salute Passes (WPF&M) expiring on September 27, 2014. My daughter and I are only available to use them this weekend so are trying to maximize our visit. They each have remaining on them 2 park days & all 4 water days. Although they aren’t a hopper, would be allowed to use the 2 remaining park visits on the same day? Or 2 of the water days at 2 different water parks on the same day? I understand that I am allowed to do 1 park/1 water on the same day. I’m curious about the other scenario, however Thanks!
Yes you sure can Mary!
Think of them as a theater ticket. you can use them at any tine (till they expire).
I bought my 6 tickets earlier this year I have activated all except one which I was saving for my husband. We are going in a few days and I seem to have lost that activated ticket. Is there anyway I can buy another military salute ticket to replace my missing one? Again the original one was a printout from the base exchange and had not been activated yet. I hope this doesn’t sound too confusing.
Ugg, autocorrect changed my word. The lost ticket is the paper print out that I got after I paid at ITT. It has not been activated at the turnstyles yet.
Hi Maria,
Did you take a picture of the back of the voucher or write down the voucher number? Disney may be able to use that without buying a new one.
But you may certainly buy another. Disney’s limit is on how many you activate.
Hi!
Can we get into the park early with military tickets?
Thanks!
Yes Whitney, if you are staying at a resort offering Extra Magic Hours. The type of ticket doesn’t matter, the resort does.
I’m a retired disabled vet with 7 children. We are going to Disney in June. It’ll be my husband, myself, our 7 kids, and my caregiver/nurse. How do I get tickets for all of us. Camp Pendleton let me buy 6, but I’m not sure how to get the other 4.
The others will have to be purchased from Disney directly in person. Disney only gives this exception to those who qualify (Mom, Dad, and their dependent children). I’m not sure if they’d allow it for your caretaker, so that might be a full price ticket.
You could buy the other tickets from another ITT and if Disney does not allow the use of the ticket by your caretaker, they “Might” allow you to use the price towards a full price ticket.
Hi,
My husband is in the National Guards and we are a family of 11 (2 parents and 9 children). I’ve read all over this site and a few others that disney would make an exception to us. All of our children are enrolled in DEERS. Do I need to bring proof of this? What location would make this exception for us? Your reply is greatly appreciate. We are traveling in less than a week and I’m becoming a bit anxious. Thank you once again.
Hi there Stokes’
If all the kids do not have DoD IDs I would bring a copy of the DEERS enrollment as well (just to be safe) as 5 is a big amount of extra tickets.
But your family does fall within Disney’s policy as they are all your dependent children.
Just go to any Disney ticket booth, there is no special location.
Disney is a huge company (over 60,000 employees at WDW) so occasionally you may run into an individual who is not up to speed on all the rules. In that event, just politely ask to speak to a Lead, Supervisor or Manager (Disney’s chain of “command”) to resolve any issue.
Have fun!
We are planning a trip to Disneyland this weekend (Sept. 26,27, and 28). If we buy the 2014 tickets, will we be able to use them on the 28th as our 3rd day? Or, if we buy the 2015 tickets, will we be able to use them for all 3 days? Thank you.
Unfortunately Jessica, you are not allowed to use one offer’s tickets in another offer.
The current tickets expire at the end of the day on the 27th and the new tickets can not be used until the morning of the 28th.
Hello,
I am wondering, if I bought ONE 4 day pass, could we split it between my husband and myself for only two days. I don’t really want to spend 4 days at Disney with a toddler :/
No sorry Haley, all Disney tickets are non transferable. During the first use either a finger print or picture (depending on location) of the guest is tied to the ticket to prevent sharing of tickets.
Good evening, your blog is so helpful!!! I just have one question I am trying to plan a much needed trip for my brother who was in the Army. He has a United States Uniformed Services (tanish/brown card) is this an except able card for the Armed Forces Salute for Disneyland tickets? Or would he only qualify for regular Military discount and if so how could I find out the amount of a discount he would receive. Thank you so much for your help 🙂
Hi there Lynette, it depends on his status, see eligibility here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disneys-Armed-Forces-Salute-FAQ.html#Am-I-Eligible
ID info Here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-World-Military-Discount-ID-Guide.html
And discounts by status here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Military-Discounts/Discount-Finder/Military-Discount-Finder.html
Hi Steve,
Thanks for the very helpful information on the website. I am currently deployed in Afghanistan, and have made a reservation to stay at a resort property Jan 11-18 2015. I did not purchase tickets on my vacation package in anticipation of buying the Armed Forces Salute tickets.
If I can find a way for my spouse to purchase the tickets while I am still deployed (the nearest military sales outlet is over 200 miles away from where we live), do these tickets have to also be ‘activated’ before we can link them to my Disney expireince account in order to make Fast Pass reservations 60 days in advance?
Thank you,
Dave
Hi Dave, thanks!
She can get them via phone/FedEx from Camp Pendleton see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/
Once she creates a My Disney Experience account, links the resort reservations and the salute ticket vouchers, she’ll be st to start making your FP+ 60 days out.
The tickets do have to be activated upon arrival, but do not need to be to make FP+.
Hello,
I am confused. I just spoke with Disney and the lady told me that I have to purchase all 6 tickets at one time if we are planning to go to Disneyland later on in the ticket promotion window. We are going next week for a spur of the moment trip and planned to get our tickets once we got there but we also plan to go some time for Christmas. Is this true or can I just buy our tickets for December when we go in December? Thank you!
Hi Destinee,
You can buy your December tickets in December.
Unfortunately Disney call center workers know almost nothing about their company’s military discounts and pass out incorrect information more often than not.
I complain to Disney about this constantly. I’ve heard some doosies that they’ve told people.
I don’t know why this is, it really shouldn’t be, but I speculate that:
They really deal with military info VERY infrequently
They are all part timers
The call centers are not at the resorts, they are in places like Tampa
There is no training on mil discounts
Their network is very hard to find things on
When they get a mil question they go of what they: think they heard, remember (maybe from 4 years ago), what someone else told them.
Whatever the reason, they are almost always wrong, call 5 times and you’ll get 4 different answers 😉
I am not sure if you can answer this question, but it will affect how many days we book a room for. It concerns AFS tickets. There are 4 of us going and TWO of us are active/retired military.
We all want to go to the park for a total of 8-hopper days. Can one of us military buy 4 tickets for all of us to use for 4 days and the other military person buy us 4 tickets for us to use the next 4 days? We use the one 4 day and then activate the next set of 4-day hopper tickets.
I have been told different stories by ITT and by Disney.
Yes, absolutely Shellie, you can do that.
Four and four or six and two. Either way back to back Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket use is allowed.
I purchased the 4 day military park hopper. Does it include Disney Quest or do I have to buy separate? Also, is this site legit… http://tickets.visitorlando.com/Walt-Disney-World-Resort-Disney-Quest/
Hi Tiffany,
Disney Quest is not included in the theme park hopping option. It is included in the Water Park Fun and More Option.
Single day DQ tickets are available at Shades of Green for $43a/$38c. Sorry I’m unfamiliar with that site.
But you can add the WPF&M option to your hopper tickets once at WDW at one of their ticket windows for $30 plus tax.
See this for more WPF&M info: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Disney-Water-Park-Fun-and-More.html
Great blog Steve and thank you for taking the time out to answer everyone’s questions! My father is retired military and will be purchasing the tix for my family. Does my father have to purchase one for himself and walk us in or can he just activate it all of our tix and not enter? And if so do we do this at guest service, ticket box, or turnstile? Thanks in advance Steve!
Thanks Melanie,
He can activate up to 5 tickets without doing one for himself (he must reserve one for himself to use “later”).
Here is everything to know about the activation process: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/how-to-activate-your-disney-armed-forces-salute-theme-park-tickets/
We plan on visiting Disney dec 2014. My husband is retired AF. Can we purchase 3 day hoppers. Dates dec 29, 30, 31. Thank you
Hi Pat,
The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are blocked out 25 Dec 2014-4 Jan 2015 at Disneyland.
See:http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disneys-Armed-Forces-Salute-FAQ.html#Ticket-Blockout-Dates
Do members of the IRR (Individual Ready reserves) qualify for the Salute? We have full base privileges and my husband has the green DD form 2 ID. .
Hi Alison,
Technically you need to be a participating Reservist to be eligible, but Disney does accept the green DD-2. Does it have anything which shows your non participating status on it?
Steve, appreciate all of your comments above. Thanks. Not clear if the limit of 6 is for the duration of the entire offer period or for one trip to Disney? My wife and I planning a trip in Feb 2015 and then we are taking family in June 2015. In Feb 2015, it will be my wife and I and then in June 2015 it will be my wife and I and 2 adult children, one daughter in law and 2 grandchildren (total 7). Can my wife and I get two tickets for us in Feb 2015 and then 6 more for the group in June 2014. Also if we are able to buy tickets for two separate visits, could we get one extra ticket in Feb 2015 to use in June 2015? Also, am I as the retired military able to buy 6 tickets and also my wife (dependent spouse) buy an additional 1-6 tickets? Hope this is clear and you are able to answer. Thanks, John
Hi there John,
The limit is 6 for the entire length of the offer period, per eligible military member. Spouses are only eligible in the members place (and use up the members allotment).
You can buy tickets during separate visits, so you can use 2 in February and then will have 4 left for your June trip.
For the other 3 tickets in June you’ll use the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets, 1 adult and 2 child’s (age 3-9) if the kids fall in that range. Kids regular tickets are cheaper.
Thanks. I suspected this was the way it would be but had not seen it clearly outlined. John
Steve, another question. In researching the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets I came across the Stars and Stripes tickets which appear to be a bit different. Can you address this and explain why the two different military discount offers? John
Are the Stars and Stripes available only at Shades of Green? When military members and their “family” is mentioned as eligible for these passes does “family” include extended family as daughter in law. grandchildren and adult children?
Yes they are only available at Shades of Green John. Eligible refers to who may buy them, they can be used by anyone in the party.
Hi there John, sure.
The Stars and Stripes are only sold by Shades of Green, where the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets are sold by most bast ticket offices including Shades.
Both of these options were around long before the Disney Armed Forces Salute!
The S&S was and is a special deal offered by Shades and WDW for military on property.
You must be staying on WDW property to be eligible to buy the S&S, no day guests of off site hotels. Anyone may buy the MYW.
The S&S are a length of stay ticket, you must buy the number of days that correspond to your number of hotel stay nights. The MYW can be from 1 to 10 day tickets.
The S&S are all inclusive, i.e. a base ticket with both hopper and Water Park Fun and More. All options may be purchased a la carte for the MYW, including the no expiration option. Without the no expire the MYW expire 14 days after first use. The S&S expire their length plus 1 day, after their purchase date (a 5 day expires 6 days after purchase).
Hope this helps, let me know
Steve, if I get S&S tickets or MYW tickets at Shades of Green when we get there, then we will not be able to make Fast Pass selections 60 days in advance (staying at Disney Resort). Is that correct? We would have to link the tickets to our account before being able to make Fast Pass selections?
Yes that is correct, if FP+ is important, then buying from a local base ticket office or vis phone would be required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/
Thanks, Steve. I think you have clarified almost all of my questions – until my wit e comes up with another.
Hi – my father-in-law bought 4 day hopper Salute 15 tickets on base and has a voucher – the numbers the base told him to use to link the tickets for FastPass aren’t being accepted online – when I called Disney support they told me they aren’t valid numbers. Since we don’t have the actual tickets, just the exchange voucher, are we unable to link the tickets ahead of time?
Hi there,
Yes you can link them, just follow these directions: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/my-magic-plus/linking-disney-military-tickets-and-fastpass-plus-reservations/
Can my children activate the tickets with their dependent id? Their mother is taking them and we are no longer married.
Hi Jessica,
No sorry, non-spouse dependents are not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute. either the member or their spouse must go in person with the party to activate the tickets, or you’d need to use the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets.
see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
We are planning a trip to Disney World from Dec.20-23. Blackout dates start Dec.24. As long as we leave at checkout time on the 24 are we ok? We had planned on spending the night of the 23. Thanks, Jackie..Happy Holidays
Yes Jackie, that is correct.
I’ll be checking in on the 23rd myself.
Hi there!
After nearly 15 years of active duty service, my husband was separated from the Army involuntarily (but honorably), 2 months ago. We still have ID cards, Tricare, and Commissary privileges for a few more months though. Is he eligible to receive this deal for us?
Hi Cate,
I’m so sorry!
As long as his ID is valid he is eligible. Once it expires, he will no longer be able to activate the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets at Disney.
After further investigation, I learned that we actually have commissary and MWR priveleges for 2 years. MWR = Disney tickets. Yay! Thank you 🙂
Super Cate
Hello,
We were planning our trip to Disney during our children’s fall break starting OCT 13, 2015. However, I noticed the current deal expires on OCT 3. Do you know when Disney will release information about continueing the Military Salute Deal for 2015-2016? If they do continue the deal, can tickets be purchased before the new deal starts, or will we have to wait until Oct 4 to purchase tickets? We are trying to go during the non-busy season, but not pull our kids out of school. Our other option would be to go in late May/early June 2015. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Jennifer
Hi Jennifer,
In both 2013 and 2014 the very first release of the renewal was, courtesy of Disney, here on MDT during the third week of July.
In both cases tickets were supposed to be available in mid-August, but in many cases, base ITT Offices didn’t have them till October or November. They were available on property then.
Also with such a late in the year release of the discount, the rooms that would normally be military discounted were mostly sold out in October and November, many were unable to get the discount during Oct.
Also this year the late release caused a huge issue with the ability to make FastPass Plus reservations.
I’ve been working with Disney and encouraging them to release way earlier for the last few years. This year due to the FP+ issues they have admitted there is a problem and are looking into ways to fix the issues.
I’ve had no update recently on this though.
Hi Steve –
Just wanted to drop you a note that this is an extraordinary blog. Thanks for helping out our brothers and sisters in uniform!
Cesar
Thanks so much Cesar
Hi
Brazilian air force military are elegible?
Tks
No sorry Alexandre, unless you are stationed at a US Base and have a US ID card.
And what about navy exchange? Can i buy there? You know?
With a US ID
Hello Steve,
I had a few questions, I’ve read so much I am starting to get confused.
My husband is currently deployed and I would like to take my brother and friend with me to Disney World. From what I have read I am eligible to buy the tickets for myself and them, and activate them? We would all be going on one trip together, I wanted to make sure there would be no complications.
Another question, With the limit on Armed Forces Salute tickets do you get a total of 6 tickets for a choice of Disney World or Disneyland? Or are you able to get up to 6 for Disney World and 6 for Disneyland within the promotion period?
I was thinking what if you plan a family trip to Disney World and use all 6. Then want to go to Disneyland that year during that promotion, would you be able to use 6 tickets there as well?
Hannah
Hi there Hannah,
Yes you sure can buy and activate tickets for yourself and up to 5 others who would be going with you. No issues at all.
And also the two offers are actually separate, so you can use 6 tickets during the offer at both WDW and DL.
Have fun at both!!!
Steve
Hello, I’m not sure if you even have an answer for this, but it’s worth a shot. My husband is deploying this year and we are planning a Disney vacation for when he returns after November. I know the current AFS discount ends in October, do you know if they might renewing it for the 2015-2016 season? I realize Shades of Green has discounted tickets as well but nothing compares to this discount! Thanks for your help!
Hi Carina,
The renewal announcement has come in the third week of July the last two times…
This year that caused big issues for FastPass Plus reservations and hotel discount availability in the Oct-Nov timeframe both years.
I’ve discussed this with Disney and they are looking at making the decision earlier if possible this year, but I’ve not had any update. I’ll be reengaging in the new year, be sure to check back here or sign up for the newsletter for updates.
Steve
Hi,I am military from Brasilian Air force .Can I buy those tickets with discont too?
No sorry
Hi,
I was wondering if these passes expire 14 days from the first use? According to Disneyland their Park Hopper passes expire I believe 2 weeks from first use. Thank you for all of your help. 🙂
Hi Caylee,
The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets, which this post is about, expire at the end of the current Salute Offer (3 October 2015) you have until then to use all of the days on the ticket, all together or individually. These are not the general public park hopper passes, rather a special military offer.
The Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets (from your base ticket office) however expire like the general public tickets, either 14 days after first use, or no expiration (if you pay for that option).
Thank you!
We purchased 5 AFS tickets. 4 adults 1 child 3 1/2 yr old. we will also be travelling with an infant (15 mo old). I’m assuming the infant does not need an AFS ticket, correct? But can he be included in any FP reservations?
Hi Marlene,
Yes under 3 is free, no ticket required. With no ticket, you’ll not be able to make FP+ for the little ons, but they will not need it. Just walk on up and use the FP+ for those with tickets and the little one can accompany you.
We purchased tickets to Disneland for 6 family members,, and cannot use them because the entire family got sick, and we are unable to transfer to a different date due to deployment and moving. It is within 24 hours. Can we return for a refund?
Hi Kit,
The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are valid through 3 October 2015. Any chance you could go later?
If not (I’m assuming you bought them on base) attempt to get a refund from your ticket office.
If they will not assist you your only recourse is to resell them to a military friend or coworker who will be able to activate them.
Thank you so much for all of this useful information! I could be a little confused though. My Grandfather wants to go to our local base to buy tickets for his grandchildren to give as gifts. He does not plan on going on vacation with them. He said he was told over the phone by Disney World that he could purchase them at the base and give them to whomever he wanted. Is that correct? From what I read he has to be present to activate the tickets. Or is that a different ticket that he will be purchasing? He did say that he can’t get any resort discounts because he won’t be staying there. Just trying to make sure everything is done correctly.
Hi Brittany,
There are two different types of military discounted tickets for Disney. there are the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets and the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets.
The Disney Armed Forces Salute is a special program which allows military members to spend time with family and friends in Disney’s parks. Because of it’s purpose and large discount there are many rules, one of which is that the military member or their spouse must be part of the party and have a ticket for themselves. Per Disney’s rules the member must activate the tickets at WDW with the whole party present. The tickets may then be used individually.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
The Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets are slightly discounted tickets sold by Military Base Ticket Offices and Shades of Green. These are not restricted and he can buy them ahead of time for you without getting one for himself. These are 1-10 day tickets with all the regular options you’d find at a Disney ticket booth. These are only slightly discounted from the gate price though.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Here is a link to the price list at Shades of Green (the military hotel at WDW) prices on base would be within a dollar: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
Also he would have to go in order to get the room discount.
10 years ago i received an honorable medical discharge from the Army. I have to request an id but have my DD-214 papers. Would i be eligible for salute tickets?
Hi Ronnie,
Only with a current retired military ID.
For another option See:http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Are U.K. veterans entitled to the military salute discount, and if so what identification would i need to bring. thanks Jack
Hi Jack,
Thanks for checking out the site!
The only 2 discounts for non-US military are: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/non-us-military-members-eligible-to-stay-at-shades-of-green/ & http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
But both are for those serving with US forces and require a US issued ID like the one at the bottom left of this page: http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
Hi! Great blog!!! Thanks for all the info. My mom iOS retired military and purchased Disneyworld tickets for all of us. We booked our flights and are flying there in a few weeks but unfortunately my mom is no longer able to join us due to an unforeseen surgery/health issue. My question is…is there anyone we can call to speak to at Disney in order to activate these tickets? We already have everything booked…flights, resort, tickets and I’m worried that now we won’t be able to get into Disney world with our kids!
Hi K,
Thanks so much!
Unfortunately the purpose of the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets is for the member to spend time with family and friends in the Disney parks, not to give the tickets to others to use, which would be the situation here although it is due to health issues.
The simple truth is that you are not eligible for the discount, only your mother is.
I have never heard of anyone being allowed to activate and use the tickets without the member. It is a hard and fast rule! So you will not be able to use them unless she goes with all of you to activate them.
I will also tell you this, the Disney Company is notorious for passing incorrect information regarding its military discounts out over the phone, email, and text to military members. It might be that you could find someone who would tell you it would be fine, only to find out when you got there that you can’t use them as you are not eligible for this discount.
The only opinion that matters is the ticket agent you present the tickets to and this is a rule they won’t break (as far as I know).
So here is what you should do:
You mom needs to take the tickets back to where she purchased them, explain the situation and ask if they will to use these non-refundablw tickets towards the purchase of Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets (which cost more).
The Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets can be used without her going, but are only 4%-8% off the full price (depending on length and options).
Read more about the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
And see the prices here (these are at Shades of Green, Base Ticket Office prices will be very similar): http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
If they will not exchange them, you’ll need to take the tickets with you to Disney, along with the receipt, a photo copy of your mom’s ID, and a note from her explaining the situation and see if they will allow you to use them towards full price tickets.
I’m sorry there is no easy fix, is there no possibility to reschedule? The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are valid through 3 October 2015.
Thanks so much for all your help! I appreciate you! Unfortunately, we can’t reschedule our kids would be devastated plus our tickets are non refundable. Hopefully she can exchange them but I appreciate your advice on the option to return the tickets to the park.
We are looking to go in July. Are there any military discounts for the dining plans?!
Thanks!
Unfortunately Disney does not offer any military discounts on the dining plans. Any general public discounts, such as the free dining they occasionally offer can not be combined with military discounts.
Disney feels that the Disney Armed Forces Salute is significant enough on its own.
Does this deal apply to members of the Canadian military?
No, sorry. Unless you are stationed at a US base and have a US issued ID (CAC).
Hi. Thank you so much for information.
I am the spouse of a retired member (Army). I will be traveling without my spouse and visiting Disney World with my family in June. Will I be able to purchase tickets without my retired spouse? It states ” Spouses of Military Service Members also qualify if they are able to present valid and active U.S. Military IDs in the absence of active Military Personnel”
Does that mean that the spouse of a retired member cannot purchase tickets on her own? Only active member spouses can? Please clarify. Thank you so much!
Hi clara,
No, it doesn’t mean that :-0
Your military retired husband is the military member (just as I am) and you as the spouse are eligible you purchase the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets with your current/valid military ID.
I am a military spouse and I was at Disney in January and used a discounted pass. If I didn’t use all of the 6, can I get another discounted pass for myself if I go to Disney again before the end of the promotion?
Yes you sure can Andrea!
i have a question, when you say Disney has to activate the tickets do they have access to any personal info stored on the military site or are they just looking at your id. I feel leery of doing this if they can go in and see your information.
They are just looking for a valid ID of the correct type Patti. They have no access to any DoD sites.
thank you that makes me feel a little better that your information is secure
This procedure has been going on since 2009, hundreds of thousands of military members have used these tickets. The tickets are offered through a contract between MWR and Disney.
Hello! Can more than one set of 6 be purchased in a year? No, correct? We purchased 3 last year for a trip we took this January. My understanding, we can still purchase 3 more?
Thanks for all the info!! Love your blog!
Christina
Hi Christina,
You can purchase and activate 6 tickets per military member during the Disney Armed Forces Salute offer period which is 29 Sept 2014 through 3 October 2015. So if you’ve just used 3 you are good for 3 more.
Wonderful! Thank you!!
I am confused about the fact that it says the tickets expire in October but it further indicates block out dates after that. If I purchase military salute tickets would we be able to use them for a stay November 27 to December 3. Thank you for your help and great website
Thanks so much!
Check those dates again Doreen.
The only blockout dates remaining on this offer are late March to early April. The Dec/Jan dates are for last Christmas/New Years.
You’ll need to wait on a follow-on offer for those dates 🙂
We purchased, activated and used 3/4 days on our park hopper military tickets in November 2014. We are going back to Disney World in May to use our last park day. I was told we can still add the water park and more option. Do you know if that is correct?
Hi Angel,
Yes your 4th day will be valid through 3 October and you can still upgrade the tickets to add 4 WPF&M visits for $30 each ticket.
I’m traveling with my adult children and 3 Grand Children. Will Disney waive the 6 ticket limit. I am in need of a total of 9 tickets? if so how do I go about this?
Hi Greg,
No sorry, the 6 ticket exception is for a self contained family i.e.mom, dad, and their young dependent children. This is so the whole family can get the discount.
Extended families i.e. adult children, their children, aunts, uncles, parents, in-laws do not qualify.
So you’ll have your 6 Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets to use and then you’ll need Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets for the other 3, preferably any kids 3-9 as they are cheaper tickets.
Hey Steve,
Helping another military family plan their trip and they have a large family (8 children + mom and dad). Mom went to her local ITT office hoping to purchase the 4-day hopper tickets for her family of 10 and was told she would only be allowed to purchase 6 and then would have to purchase 4 regularly priced tickets to cover the rest of her family. I called Disney and the Shades of Green and was told the same, they would only allow her 6. It was my understanding that Disney would cover large immediate families for the 4-day hopper tickets. Have they changed their policy?
Hi there Meg,
This is a big issue that FastPass Plus caused, before it was just an inconvenience, but now that you need to have your tickets in advance it is causing problems. I’ve asked Disney to address in any follow-on salute offer.
Disney allows military resellers (Shades and Base Ticket Offices) to sell the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. They do this via a contract they sign for each new offer. Since the very first offer there has been language in it limiting military resellers to 6 tickets only. The contract says 6 is the limit, so that’s what what they are legally required to tell people. Some base ticket office workers are knowledgable, some not so much. The contract is what Disney needs to change next time.
Only the Disney Ticketing Dept can sell tickets above 6 for the large family exception, which is still and always has been valid.
The Disney call center is a whole nother story! My advice is to never trust anything the Disney call center tells you about military discounts (better to just not call them). For more on this see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tips/Disneys-Call-Center-Very-Often-Wrong-On-Military-Discounts.html.
There are four options for your friends, all valid:
1. If they do not care about Fastpass, just wait to buy the Salute tickets when they get there from Disney. This is the worst option!
Or if they want to use Fastpass:
2. Buy the 6 Salute tickets and the 4 Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets to make FP+ for the whole family. Link all tickets and make FP+. This is the most costly.
3. Have another military member buy the other 4 Salute tickets for them. Link all tickets and make FP+.
4. Buy the 6 Salute tickets, link them and make FP+. Then on arrival buy the other 4 salute tickets and ask the Guest Relations CMs to give the last four members of the party matching FP+ reservations because of the situation. WDW can do this, they will be special FP+ for the same rides the rest of the family has but valid for one ride at any time that day. I received these once (to match my wife’s FP+) when mine dropped out of the system. THis has the least perceived financial risk.
When doing #3 or 4 it is still possible to run into a CM at WDW who is unfamiliar with the rule who might say “there is no such thing.” If that happens ask to speak to a Lead, Supervisor, or Manager (the Disney chain of command) to clarify the issue.
Hello,
We are planning a land and sea vacation for next May and I was wondering have you ever used the meal plan? I was thinking about getting the Disney Dining Plan but is it beneficial to get the plan or better just to pay out of pocket? We’d are a family of 5 traveling. Thank you!
Hi there Shemeaka,
We’ve never personally used the DDP.Some love it, some don’t.
From all I’ve read with the quick service plan you pretty much come out even cost wise, so you are just pre paying for your meals.
With the standard and even more so with the deluxe you have to work to not loose money.
Price out what you think your family would actually eat using the menus on AllEars.net and compare to the cost of the DDP you are interested in.
Question about the validation- My father is retired military and lives in Chicago, we (his daughter and my family) live in California. He was going to buy these tickets for our family of four to go to Disneyland. He was not planning on going to Disney with us, so it looks like we could not use this benefit. He has to be going to the park with us? Correct?
Thank you!!
Yes sorry but that is correct Kathleen.
The Disney Armed Forces Salute is for the military member and their guests to use together, not for others to use without them.
I have a Disneyland ticket (military 3 day hopper from October 2014. I only used 2 days. Can I use the last day at DisneyWorld?
No, sorry Theresa,
The offers are totally separate. It is still valid at Disneyland though, through 3 October 2015.
Thank you
I have a question.about our 4 day park hopper salute tickets that we purchased from our local MWR. My husband and I (retired Army) purchase to go with our daughter, son-in-law (active Army) and granddaughter, When the tickets were purchased we had to provide names. Our son (active Army) was deployed at the time we planned our vacation so we did not include him. It turned out that, due to a class our son-in-law had to attend, we were unable to go on our planned vacation. Now that our son has returned from his deployment, we were wondering if we can send him two of our 5 tickets so he and his wife can activate and use them since he is active duty Army.
Sorry for the long story, but we will appreciate the information!
Best regards,
Racheal Flavel
Hi Racheal,
Some Base Ticket Offices ask for names and write them on the vouchers. I don’t know why they do this, perhaps they think they are helping.
My base does not do this. I have 4 Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket vouchers right now that I’ll be using in a month or so.
Any name on the voucher is irrelevant to Disney and their activation process. They are just looking for a voucher which has not been activated before.
Hi Steve,
We have used the armed forces tickets many times in the past. We went in October 2014 and I know for a fact we didn’t use all 6 tickets. I just don’t know how many I actually used. Some of us had annual passes and others didn’t .So I don’t know how many I do have left . Who do I contact to determine how many I have left ? I don’t want to buy 2 and only have 1 left or buy 3 and only have 2 left, and try using them at the park and get turned away because I have already used my Max 6. Thanks!
Ooh, that is a toughie Sarah.
Disney is not very helpful in this area. For regular tickets with unknown days left, they tell you to bring them to the park.
I fear their answer for how many tickets you have remaining would be the same.
But try calling the main Walt Disney World number (407) 824-2222 and ask if someone from Tickets can help you over the phone.
Thanks for all the info! One question, does the military member have to present ID each day? I’m thinking about when we are there with my retired military father, he may need a break by day 3 while his grandkids definitely won’t.
Hi Jen,
No, once the initial activation is complete the party does not need to stay together and there is no ID check.
You can go to different parks or use the tickets on different days if you like (through 3 October).
Are veterans passes only for those who served and retired after 20 plus years of service,
or are they available to those who served and were honorably discharged?
Hi Jeanne,
Thanks for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for those who did not retire.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Hope this helps,
Steve
Hi Steve,
My sister in law (who is an active military spouse) was suppose to go with us on our family vacation and she was going to get my parents tickets, now it says that she cant get the 4-day park hopper passes because they are considered adult children, is that correct? plus on top of that something came up and she wont be going with us to the parks, but she was still going to drive down and get the tickets for my parents, could they still use them if she wasnt there? Thanks for your time!
Hi Kaila,
I’m not sure what you are trying to say about adult children, but the military member or spouse may use the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets for anyone they choose, family or friends.
She must have a ticket for herself (whether she uses it or not) and she plus the whole party must be present for the ticket activation process.
Once the tickets are active the party need not stay together.
Must I have used my last day before Oct 3 or do I just have to have one day before that date? For example, can I go October 1,2,3 and 4th? Also, do the waterpark options also expire on October 3rd?
Kellie 3 October is the last day anything on the ticket is valid. On the 4th it can not be used at all for anything.
We’ll be in Orlando for two weeks!! I am retired military, so we’re going to get the 4-day AFS tickets for our family of six (mom. dad, four littles). If I have an AD or retired colleague/friend buy another six tickets, will I be able to activate them back-to-back? I would have thought this is kind of a scam that they’d be on the lookout for, but I thought I interpreted one of your responses above as advising someone to do just that–get the first six and then have someone else get another four (in their case) or six (in our case).
Thanks, and sorry if I sound like a criminal–just trying to find out if there’s a way to make it all work!
Hi Mary,
Sorry for the confusion! I didn’t scan all the comments above though, so I’ll just start fresh
You are allowed 6 per military member. For your party to use 12, both you and your husband would have to be retired military.
For someone else to help you with this, they would first have to be there with you to activate the tickets. They would also have to to use one for themselves or if they were a passholder keep one un-purchased for themselves. In either case they could only buy 5 for you.
Hope this is clear, let me know
Yes, that clears it up. Thank you!
Can the child of a retired military personnel, who has military id, buy the tickets at the Disneyland ticket booth for the discounted rate or does it actually have to be the person who has served?
Hi Shay,
Disney offers these tickets at a big discount so the member can spend time with family and friends in the parks. They are not intended to be used without the member (or spouse). Unfortunately non-spouse dependents are not eligible for the discount.
The member or spouse must accompany your child and have a ticket for themselves.
Another option would be to buy a slightly discounted Regular Military Discounted Disneyland ticket at your local base ticket office or though Camp Pendleton via phone.
Hi Steve,
I am in the same boat, I am going to Disneyland in the next couple of weeks. My dad is retired Navy and I have a dependent card, but I don’t see the regular discounted rate on our local ticket website, they just have the Military Salute ones. Do all bases offer the regular discounted tickets?
Thank you!
Hi Emily,
No every base has a different assortment of what they carry, based on their location. But your local office may be able to order whet you need, give them a call.
Or you can get what you need from Camp Pendleton see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/
Hi,
My grandmother (a spouse), my parents, and I will be visiting California in July, but my grandmother does not want to visit the parks. Is she able to buy the three tickets for us and activate them at the park but not have to purchase a ticket for herself? Or would she still have to purchase a ticket for herself?
Thanks!
SHe will still have to purchase one for herself Karlie, even though she doesn’t plan to use it. Still a big savings when you average it.
I was wondering if I by myself (spouse) and I buy my sister who will be visiting a 3 day pass, can I give my give my husband her ticket for the remaining days since she’ll be using it once?
Hi Jen,
You can buy her one if you are going with her and you have one for yourself too.
But all Disney tickets are non-transferable, so she will be the only person allowed to use that ticket. Disney has measures in place to prevent this.
I am going to Disney World in Nov2015 and Disneyland in Feb 2016> If salute tickets renewed can I buy maximum 6 tickets for each park in the same promotion year since they are different parks Thank You
Yes you sure can Linda. They are actually separate offers.
Hello,
I will be traveling to Disneyland for the 60th Birthday celebration in July. Attending with my retired military husband and adult daughter and her girlfriend. I was planning on purchasing the Military Salute discounted tickets. I am glad I read this blog. Am I to understand that only my husband and I are eligible for the Military Salute tickets and my adult daughter and her girlfriend are not? That the additional tickets cannot be used on adult children and friends? Are they only for sponsor and spouse and young children, i.e. under the age of 18?
Hi Catherine, no you are a little confused.
Only your husband or yourself may buy and activate the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets up to the limit of 6.
The 4 tickets not used by yourselves you can allow anyone to use.
The specific circumstance of the tickets having to be used by a family unit (member, spouse, & their dependent children) is for those families that have more than 4 kids and need more than 6 tickets.
My husband who is retired military and I have annual passes to Disney World. We purchased 3 military 4 day passes for our three children at the base. We plan to go with them in