News for 2021 & 2022:
- No 2022 WDW Disney Armed Forces Salute So Far
- 2022 Disney Armed Forces Salute Timeline
- What to Expect on the Day Disney Announces the WDW 2022 Disney Armed Forces Salute
- Using Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets in 2021
- Using the Walt Disney World Theme Park Reservation System
The Universal Orlando Resort has released their offers for the US Military Community for 2021.
Universal Orlando 2021 Special Highly Discounted Military Tickets
Update on our other site: Universal Orlando’s 2022 Freedom Pass Update
Updated 9 May 2021 – Single Transaction Limit
Updated 5 April 2021 -DoD Civilian Eligibility Update
Updated 27 Jan 2021 -DoD Civilian Eligibility
Updated 11 Jan 2021 -For clarity
Updated 24 Dec 2020 -Big News on these Tickets!
For more than 11 years Universal Orlando has been offering special highly discounted military tickets in addition to their regular slightly discounted military tickets.
These special military tickets are usually offered for specific dates, for set ticket lengths and options.
Normally their regular military tickets offer the full range of lengths and options at a lower discount.
Here are the 2021 Universal Orlando Special Military Ticket/Pass offer details:
For 2021 Universal is calling their Special Military Tickets – Freedom Passes.
Did you note they are calling them passes this year and not tickets? That’s because this year they are like a Universal Annual Pass (without the other benefits Universal adds to those, like parking). They are valid every single day of they year!
These Passes are mind blowing!
Offer Dates:
The 2-Park Freedom Pass is valid for use every single day between 1 January and 31 December 2021
The 3-Park Freedom Pass is valid for use every single day between 1 March and 31 December 2021
There are no Blackout Dates!
Pass Types:
2 Park, Park-to-Park Freedom Pass – Both Adult & Child Versions
The 2-Park, Park-to-Park Military Promotional Pass entitles 1 eligible person admission to the following Universal Orlando Resort theme parks each day: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
3 Park, Park-to-Park Freedom Pass – Both Adult & Child Versions
The 3-Park, Park-to-Park Military Promotional Pass entitles 1 eligible person admission to the following Universal Orlando Resort theme parks each day: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, AND Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park.
Pass Prices:
- 2 Park Freedom Pass – $200 Adult/$195 Child – For the whole year!
- 3 Park Freedom Pass – $235 Adult/$230 Child – For the whole year!
These are Universal’s prices, local base’s prices may vary slightly.
There seems to be a lot of confusion about these passes on Facebook when I’ve shared this post. So in a effort to be absolutely clear:
These Freedom Passes are like an annual pass, without the other benefits that usually go with an AP, like free parking and discounts.
You only pay the price once, not every visit or every so often.
The pass is good for admission every single day after you purchase it. There is no limit.
The 2-Park pass is valid for the two theme parks. The 3-Park is valid for the two theme parks and the water park (once it opens for the season).
These Freedom Pass are only available Through your Travel Agent as part of a package AND at Base Ticket Offices (Including Shades of Green). They are not available at Universal’s gates!
Note! These are a specially priced offer and are much cheaper per day than the Regular Military Universal Tickets. Compare prices! It might be cheaper to buy these for a shorter stay than shorter Regular Tickets..
Shades of Green Regular Universal Military Prices (Base Ticket Offices prices very similar if not the same)
Those Eligible for This Ticket Offer Are:
- Active or Retired US Military -Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, US Coast Guard (with valid military ID!)
- 100% Service Connected Disability with DoD issued Military ID
- Spouses of Eligible Service Members
- DoD Civilians
These tickets are priced extremely low, therefore they are a fantastic opportunity for Military personnel to visit both Universal Orlando’s original theme parks (Universal Studios Florida & Universal’s Islands of Adventure) as well as take advantage of experiencing Volcano Bay Water Theme Park!
Not Elegible:
- Non-Retirees e.g. DD-214 or VA Card
Pass Details
The eligible person must present a valid Military ID at time of voucher purchase and when exchanging the voucher at the Universal sales window or at ticket locations in Universal’s on site hotels.
- Limit 6 Passes during program period
- Only one single activation is allowed during this offer. This is because the member must be activating their own Freedom Pass when activating for others. Example – I you have friends that will be going with you only later in the year, you need to get and activate passes for them during your original activation.
- You may make multiple purchases up to the limit, but only the single activation. Once you’ve activated the member’s ticket you are done.
- Passes must be used by the same person on any and all days (Non-Transferable)
- Passes will arrive UNACTIVATED
- Passes will be ACTIVATED at any Universal Pass Sales window with a valid ID presented by the military member or military spouse; military member or spouse MUST accompany the party to the Pass Sales window for first activation of the Passes, and use one of the tickets; Dependent children CANNOT activate Passes on their own. Ticket locations in Universal’s Hotels are not owned by Universal and you can not activate these passes there.
- Passes are not valid after 31 December 2021
- This offer is not valid at Universal Studios Hollywood
See how to use the Freedom Pass on our Universal Site: How to Use Universal Orlando’s Freedom Pass
Universal Orlando 2021 Special Highly Discounted Room and Ticket Packages
Universal Orland has also offered Room and Ticket packages to the US Military Community through the years.
These consist of accommodations in one of Universal’s Resort Hotels or one of their local partners (at a lower price point).
Here is our current information on Universal’s 2021 Military Room Discounts.
Those Eligible for This Ticket Offer Are:
- Active or Retired US Military -Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, US Coast Guard (with valid military ID!)
- 100% Service Connected Disability with DoD issued Military ID
- Spouses of Eligible Service Members
Not Elegible:
- DoD Civilians
- Non-Retirees e.g. DD-214 or VA Card
Universal Orlando’s 2021 military packages consist of Ticket and Room Packages or Room Only.
- These Special Freedom Passes can be added to Packages!
- Room discounts are up to 40% off depending on resort, category, season, week day/weekend
Universal has not posted package rates online as they have in previous years. You must call for prices or work with a Universal Military Specializing Travel Agent like Military Disney Tips’ recommended agent Jen Novak.
Use a Military Expert for your Universal Studios Vacation at No Extra Cost!
Jen Novak is Military Disney Tips’ Recommended Universal Studios Travel Agent! Just click this link to get your Quote
Over to You
What do you think about this offer? Let us know in the comments section below!
Related, also see: Military Discounts at Universal City Walk
For much more content on the Universal Orlando Resort see out other Website Universal Orlando for Military.
Need Help Planning your Universal Resort Hotel Stay?
Jen Novak is Military Disney Tips' Recommended Universal Studios Travel Agent! Just click this link to get your Quote
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How much will the new Freedom pass be? The 5-day ticket price is listed but not the pass. Thanks!
That is the price for the pass Cat. They just switched the name and I missed that change.
I’ll fix it.
Is parking included with these freedom passes?
No, sorry it’s not Alex
Is there a way to buy through a travel agent as our local base has not updated it yet and said such offer expired on 12/23.
Yes you definitely can Meredith.
Just contact Jen, via the link on this page.
It says one free guest is one free guest per active duty or one free guest per pass member ? If I have 4 pass can I have 4 guest ?
Hi Michelle,
I’m sorry, it does not say “one free guest” anywhere in the post.
It does say “Park-to-Park Military Promotional Pass entitles 1 guest admission to the following…”
A guest is what Universal (and Disney) call customers, as in the person who buys the ticket or pass.
Hi Steve, I was wondering do you know if it is possible that the promotion could abruptly end or they could say they ran out of tickets at some point. We are concerned that if we wait to purchase them until we know we can go, so maybe September or so. Could we have trouble getting these tickets later in the year? Thanks
Hi Deb,
There is always a chance that they could modify or end any discount. But doing so would be very odd.
They did not end their 2020 discount even with all that went on last year.
Making such a generous offer is a strategic decision for them that I think they weighed carefully beforehand.
Just to be clear — the 3-park pass can be used at US and IOA from 1/1 – 12/31, right? Only the Volcano Bay is limited to between 3/1-12/31?
Yes that’s right Sue.
That is because that is when Volcano Bay is closed for the season and opens 1 March.
Am I reading this right, you can buy a 2 or 3 park pass and go to those parksas much as you want during the year?
Yes, that’s right Laura.
How do I find out what resorts offer the 40% off? Thanks!
Hi Hollie,
Sorry, I don’t have that info, but I’d say the more expensive ones are at the 40%. Cheaper ones would normally have a smaller discount.
To know for sure work with Universal or my recommended travel agent Jen through the link in this post.
Do you know if Shades of Green currently has these tickets? I couldn’t find them on their website and I plan on trying to make the trip this weekend.
Yes they do Tony, though they haven’t updated their online price list yet.
I am staying at a resort (Royal Pacific) in 2021 that usually gives early entry and express ride passes, but am not sure if they do that as part of booking with them directly or if they will honor those perks despite us buying the tickets on our base. Do you have any idea?
Just a warning to everyone-I booked my resort-just the resort- early summer for a Feb trip and just comparison shopped to make it a full military package. It would be $300 more for the package. So definitely do the shopping and make calls to them!
Hi Jennifer,
As I understand it the express pass is given based on staying at the deluxe hotels, and it does not matter your ticket type.
Just curious about your warning. How many people was that for? How many tickets for how many days/parks would you get for the $300?
Thanks
It is for 4 of us-2 parks/day for 3 nights/4 days.
Their 2 day pass with 3 days free offering right now only really benefits FL residents who don’t need the room-because that’s extra-and as I was quoted, a lot pricier than piece-mealing it. But these are only for the 3 deluxe hotels that I was specifically researching-not really sure about the value resort packages.
I have found the same to be true with Disney bookings. The packages tend to be pricier. Hope it helps someone!
Can my husband and I each get 6 passes for a total of 12?
Hi there Cyndi,
I queried my agent and the answer I got was that she can pretty much do whatever you need when doing a package. Going on you own and just showing up with 12 vouchers to activate probably wouldn’t work, as the benefit is really just for the member.
You can contact Jen via the link on this post.
I have a quick question. every time you want to go and use the 2 day park to park for Universal you just pay the 212.99$ for each time?
Sorry I think I read it wrong. So you could use the park to park pass that’s 212$ for a whole week if you wanted? Not just 2 days.
Hi Amy,
Wrong on both guesses. lol
These are year-long passes good for entry every single day of the year for that one price.
Oh okay wow, thanks!
Do these passes include parking at the parks?
No they do not Oliver.
So the express passes are only offered if you stay at the resort hotels? Can we buy express passes separately? It’s just so much cheaper not stay at a house using the Armed Forces Vacation Club.
Hi Tim,
The Express Passes are NOT only with packages.
You can buy them from your Base Ticket Office or Shades of Green.
I did not realize that express packages can be purchaced through shades of green. Is that correct? Do you know the price of adding it?
Hi Denisa,
Express passes do not appear to be available at military resellers at this time.
I love this idea since they are doing this we plan on going twice this year. What an amazing deal. I wish Disney would offer something like this.
Does anyone sell the 3 park freedom pass? Shades of Green only has the 2 park freedom pass. We are going in Febuary and will make a second trip later in the year so we want to buy the 3 park freedom pass.
Hi Krystle,
Shades of Green just informed me that they will have them this week.
What about HHN? What will be the cost to add this to the Freedom Pass tickets? Hopefully won’t have to buy a full priced ticket to enjoy HHN. Thanks in advance for the help.
Hi David,
From what I understand, Halloween Horror Nights are and extra price admission. Not part of any regular admissions like this one.
Can you “park hop” with these tickets
Hi Amie,
Yes with the 2 park you can hope between the 2 theme parks and with the 3 park the water park also.
This is amazing! So glad I came across your blog. Do you have to purchase a vacation package to get this price or can we purchase the passes online from our local base?
Hi Desiree,
Thanks!
Yes these are stand alone passes. They can only be purchased at Base ticket offices, including Shades of Green and the Orlando ITT.
I noticed this offer is available for DOD civilian employees. Is it also available for military contractors?
Thanks in advance!
No sorry Krista
Krista,
Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!
STEVE WILL THERE BE OTHER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FROM UNIVERSAL AT DIFFERENT DISCOUNTED PRICES LIKE IN PREVIOUS YEARS
Hi Linda,
These new Passes replace the highly discounted Tickets from pervious years.
The slightly military discounted regular tickets that have always been available still are.
Hope this helps.
Do you get the season pass discount at the on site resort hotels like a regular season pass?
Hi Cole,
No, this pass comes with no extras.
So the latest information is now that DOD civilians and veterans who did not retire from the military are no longer eligible. Initially this page indicated that they were eligible I believe.
Thanks for anyinformation you can provide.
Hi Theo,
That is the info I have at this time.
There is a possibility that DoD Civs may be eligible, I’m trying to get this confirmed. Shades of Green said yes, but Universal through the travel agent channel said no, so trying to find out what’s correct. Until I do I’m not comfortable saying Civs can buy the passes and then not being able to activate them when they get there.
Non-retirees have never been eligible to my knowledge.
Hi, I would like to know this information as well! DOD Civs have always been eligible for the military promotional tickets with Universal (unlike Disney) and I have to decide on renewing my Annual Pass in the next couple of days or purchasing the freedom pass (which is an amazing deal)! Thanks!
Hi Alyssa,
DoD civs have been eligible for the special tickets to date, but the passes this year are of course quite different.
I have been trying to verify and been unable to do so.
I can’t in good conscience post that you are eligible when you may not be allowed to activate the vouchers in person even if a base lets you buy them.
Shades of Green was attempting to verify for me, I can check with them Tuesday (with the holiday)
Alyssa,
Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!
Theo,
Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!
It says we can buy a maximum of 6 tickets per ID. So can My husband buy 6 tickets and I buy 6 tickets for our family and activate them separately with each of our ID?
Glaiza,
That is the way I read it! It says and spouses not or spouses.
Steve,
I thought I read somewhere that you can order tickets online and have them mailed to your house and then activated at Universal. Is this true?
Thanks
Hi Amy,
Yes you can do that through Shades of Green.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green-resort-at-walt-disney-world/shades-of-green-military-attraction-ticket-sales-office/
Hi so if I’m reading this correct, you can bring a guest with you for free a anytime of the year?
Hi Austin,
No!
Guests are what business in the travel industry including theme parks call customers.
So”…entitles 1 guest (eligible person) admission…” means you the eligible customer who purchased your ticket. I you want to bring someone else you’ll need to buy them a ticket.
Thanks for asking, I’m going to change the language as a couple people have asked this in the comments above.
For your info DOD Civilians ARE eligible for the universal Freedom pass tickets both 2 and 3 parks.
Hi Sal,
Thanks for sharing.
Can you please share your official source that can be contacted to verify that you won’t be turned away at the gate when you try to activate your vouchers without a military ID.
I need something official not your word that this is the case in order to publish this for all to read.
If I can verify it I will change the post. I’ve been trying do so and can’t to date.
here is the link
https://www.facebook.com/JBSAINFOTICKETSANDTRAVEL/photos/a.237265289767830/1796366677191009/
Thanks Sal!
That’s the same boat I’m in already. I need to hear from Universal that when you as a civilian show up at the gate with a pass purchased on base that they won’t turn you away or make you use the pass towards a full price one because you do not have a Mil ID.
As soon as I get this confirmation through channels I will update the post.
I have heard from Universal previously that Civs are not eligible!
I came here to find out which is true. The price list from shades of green says dod civilians are eligible for these.
Cassie,
Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!
Hi there.
As a military spouse I can purchase up to 6 of these for myself and friends, correct. I know I have t be there on the first use to activate them, but after the first day can they come back without me? Also, is it 6 tickets for me and 6 tickets my husband….total 12 or 6 between the two of us like Disney does it.
Thanks
Hi Tanyelle,
It is 6 for each of you. And once their tickets activated they can return without you.
So if I purchase 8, I activate on the first day. Do the ppl I purchased the tickets for have to show proof of military affliction any time they use the tickets?
Hi Alison,
Once activated they are just like any other pass/ticket. No ID required
Just to check… The limit is 6 per member/spouse, so are you bringing your spouse to buy the other 2?
Hi Steve,
My mom is retired military, and she and my sister are visiting next month. She wants to buy one for my sister to go with me. However, she does not want to get one for herself. I know she has to be there for the activation, but does she need to purchase one for herself as well? Or can she just get one for my sister, get it activated, and then my sister and I can go the next day with the activated pass?
Hi Gregory,
Yes the military member (the person eligible for this discount) must accompany their party to the ticket booth for activation on arrival and must have a ticket of their own. The purpose of these tickets is not to give them to those who are not eligible, rather for the member to spend time with family and friends in Universal’s parks.
The slightly discounted Regular Military tickets can be used by those not eligible: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/universal-orlando-resort-military-tickets-and-passes/
Steve,
Am I reading this right? $200 per person for the 2 parks and I could literally visit in March, April, May, June and not pay any money for tickets again?
Is there a catch? That just seems way tooooooo good of a deal.
Yes Brad,
No issues with your reading. No catch, just an awesome offer for the military!
It is an excellent deal, however due to Covid the park could reach capacity very quickly and they take no reservations. Even if you purchase a fast pass doesn’t mean you will be able to get in. Very scary.
Hi. Are surviving spouses eligible for this offer? I was able to take our kids to Disney under the Military Salute but was unclear if we were eligible for Universal discounts. I still have a military ID. Appreciate the guidance!
Hi Samantha,
While they do not say so, I’m sure your military spouse ID would suffice.
Your best bet would be to contact and buy them through Shades of Green.
See: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/
Hi Steve, have you received an update on DoD civilian eligibility? Thanks
Hi Kelli,
Just late yesterday.
Shades of Green assures me that DoD Civs are eligible!
Are these passes available to 100% Disabled veterans?
Hi James,
If you have a retired ID due to the 100%.
Best thing to do is ask Shades of Green. Call their Attraction Ticket Hotline (407) 824-1403
It would be nice to offer veterans some kind of discount as well.
Does DoD qualify for room discount also or only ticket offer?
Hi Sarah,
I do not believe so, and I’ve just changed the info in the Freedom Pass for Civs to the following… Sorry.
Update on DoD Civilian eligibility: We have been back and forth on this for a couple months, moving the DoD Civilian Employee bullet point back and forth between the eligible and not eligible lists a couple times. Universal on their website indicates DoD Civs are eligible and Shades of Green says they are as well. However Universal through their travel agent booking personnel are saying that an actual military ID, not a civilian one is required to activate these passes! AND we have had actual reports of DoD Civs who have purchased these passes being told they cannot activate or use them without a military ID when they arrive at Universal!
So as of today 5 Feb 2021 I’m going to say that I believe DoD Civilian Employees are not eligible for the Freedom pass. If you purchase one it is at your own risk and be prepared to pay the difference for a full price ticket upon arrival.
Curious if the DoD at the gate showed Universal on their website they indicated they could use them… or if purchased from Shades of Green would they get a refund?
Hi Sarah,
Sorry, that is outside the intel that I have.
Hi! So if I buy 4 annual passes for the different parks using my military dependent ID, and I gave the 4 passes to my husband and 2 kids, would they have to show a military ID also to get in the parks with those passes? Or could I just show mine the day I buy and the day we visit?
Hi Jess YOu need to show yours for purchase and activatein prior to first use. After that they work just like regular tickets or passes and you would not need to be there.
I am not retired but have a DODUSID that says 100% disabled American veteran. I was able to buy the armed forces salute tickets. Would I also be eligible for these tickets?
Hi cassandra,
I believe so, but check with the Shades of Green ticket office:
Attraction Ticket Hotline (407) 824-1403
Do you need to buy a room package to get a Freedom pass or can you buy park passes only?
No you don’t Adam. You can just buy the freedom Pass
Regarding DoD civilian eligibility, I am wondering if the folks that were denied did not have a military ID? I am a DoD civ. And have a DoD ID that looks identical to an active duty one. I have used it for military discounted tickets before.
Hi Dave,
Thanks for checking in.
I’m a DoD civilian (and mil retiree). Your CAC, like mine clearly says Civilian right at the top under Affiliation. Universal and Disney know to look for this. They also know to look for the green Contractor bar and blue non-US bar.
Many military discounted tickets can be sold to DoD Civs, these being all the slightly discounted tickets that you can buy at the base ticket office (for Universal, Disney, etc.). But typically highly discounted tickets are reserved only for current and retired military (sometimes not even retired (SeaWorld)). That’s why the in person check of the ID to ensure you are actually military by these companies.
In the past when these were 4-day tickets rather than year-long passes Civs were eligible, but I think they feel the need to keep the target audience targeted.
Ok thanks for the clarification!
If I already have a Premier Annual Pass for Universal Studios Orlando, may I purchase 6 tickets for family.? I am retired military.
I believe so Colleen. Though they might limit you to 5 (like Disney does)
Do these passes allow for early park entry?
Hi Kim,
As I understand it at Universal early entry is based on staying at a universal hotel (just like at Disney) not on tickets.
CAN THE FREEDOM PASSES BE PURCHASED AT MILITARY BASES OR DO THEY HAVE TO BE PURCHASED ONLINE AND MAILED?
Hi Jennifer,
You can purchase them at Bases that carry them.
I never saw an update about 2020 passes being extended. Any info on that? I have two from last year that I was never able to use. I would appreciate any help!
Hi Edi,
To my knowledge they were never extended. I’d call Universal or the base ticket office where you bought them to ask if you can use them towards new tickets
Thank you!
Hey Steve! I just found out from Universal that the 2020 5 day park to park pass was extended to Dec. 17, 2021. You might have already known this, but if not, maybe it can help someone else that asks about 2020 passes.
Thanks for the intel Edi!!!
I really appreciate your sharing.
I just found this write up, my husband was sold these tickets by base ITT. He is a DOD Contractor and he was sold these tickets and was told he was eligible for them. Are they really not accepting them at the gate? We leave in two weeks for our trip.
Hi Teri,
Contractors were never eligible, the only question we have is about DoD Civilians.
Have him Check with his Ticket Office about using towards alternate tickets!
I am a military spouse but I haven’t updated my id would I be able to use it? I know its a stretch but thought I’d ask. Also the universal preffered passes has express pass after 4pm and early entry is this available with these passes?
Hi Leah,
I’m not sure what you mean. Do you mean your ID is expired? If so, no you can’t use it.
Sorry, no extras come with this highly discounted pass. Cause of that great price 😉
Can any DoD Civilians who tried to use the pass please report back here afterwards and let us know of your experience? Did they let you in or not? Give you a hard time? Let you put the price you paid towards tickets? Seems like there is conflicting information out there, so would appreciate hearing directly from someone who tried. Thanks!
I am traveling in June, was taking my grandchildren to universal and wanting to stay at uniserial resort’s can I get two rooms on military discount for me and my grandkids?
Hi James,
I recommend that you contact Jen using the link above in the post to find out.
Thank you
Hi Steve
Is there anyway to activate the tickets remotely.
I plan to visit with a group of 6 and stay on property to get express pass.
If due to flight schedules part of our group arrives in the morning and the remaining guests arrive in the evening can the early guests access the park if the person with the qualifying ID arrives in the late group?
Hi Diann,
Not that I am aware of, they need to check the ID in person.
I’m a military member but not married. Can i get a ticket for myself and my girlfriend using the military discount? Or is it for military spouse only with military spouse ID?
Hi Joe,
You may buy a ticket for anyone else that you’d like (family or friends).
So if I buy 3 now for my myself, spouse, and a friend am I able to buy more later on and activate them for 3 other people without using one of the 3 tickets?
HI Nicole,
These are passes, not tickets, so yours will be active all year. When you go to do your 3 friend’s you will have a active pass of your own, so good to go.
If these were tickets that could used up, you’d need to have a active one yourself. But not this year!
Can you use these passes on days when the park is marked as full on the app?
I wouldn’t think so Tiffany, that would defeat the purpose of the attendance limit.
Two questions:
1. Can you add an express pass to tickets purchased on base once you get to Universal studios?
2. How is a date assigned to the ticket – is this done at the base if you purchase for a particular date(s)? Asking to avoid being turned away if US is at capacity.
Thanks, GP
Hi Grace,
Express Pass can be added later for a fee.
The Freedom Passes are not date based, they are valid every day of the year.
Universal doesn’t have a park reservation system like Disney does. THeir solution is to provide a real time update phone line: 407-817-8317.
1) Where can these passes be activated?
I read a recommendation for Disney’s tickets to be activated ahead of time (like when you get In the area) does it matter for this one or is day of visit fine?
Thanks!
Hi Amanda,
At the Universal Studios, Island’s of Adventure, or Volcano Bay Ticket/Guest Services Windows.
These can be lines, it would be a good idea to do it ahead, especially if you want to enter as soon as the park opens!
Can these be activated at the Universal ticket counter in the Cabana Bay lobby or do you have to go to the park ticket window?
No they can’t Jay,
You have to use the ones at the parks. The ones in the hotels aren’t actually owned by Universal.
We just got back from a week at Universal. The Freedom Pass CAN be activated at the Universal desk in the Universal Resort hotels. Additionally, you can purchase express passes etc. from them. These ARE Universal owned/operated.
Thanks for the intel Jason,
Yep, we’ve been in contact officially with Universal and had removed that info. I did miss one spot which I just fixed.
I see the Freedom Passes are $200 per adult and $195 per child ages 3-9. If a child is 9 when the pass is purchased will we have to pay an additional $5 to update the pass once their 10th birthday rounds in the year?
Hi Mrs H,
This is a new one…
I’d assume that you’d be good for the whole year.
hi, So we can only use the military pass, if the retired military personnel come with us to the park?
Hello M,
Yes the military member (the person eligible for this discount) must accompany their party to the ticket booth for activation on arrival and must have a ticket of their own. The purpose of these tickets is not to give them to those who are not eligible, rather for the member to spend time with family and friends in Universal’s parks.
The slightly discounted Regular Military tickets can be used by those not eligible: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/universal-orlando-resort-military-tickets-and-passes/
Is there a military discount or a discounted rate available for Express Passes?
Also, from what I’m reading is that base ticket offices are not offering express passes for purchase at this time and our only option is to get these at Universal or with a high level hotel reservation? Thanks for clarification!
Hi Sarah,
Yes that’s exactly how I understand it. Keep in mind that Universal’s Premium hotels are priced more like a Moderate at Disney, and you should subtract out the price of the Unlimited Express Pass to find the actual room cost.
Are DoD Civilians eligible for the room discount? I went in January and was able to purchase and use the Freedom pass as well as receive a room discount at Dockside Inn and Suites, however when I called today they said DoD Civilians aren’t eligible. Why could this be?
Hi Kylie ,
On this I have to say it’s a mess. Universal’s online information and the Military Sales Department all say yes to Freedom Passes and rooms to DoD Civs.
But the execution seems to be something different. Their online rules and I presume the ones the employees see say a military ID must be presented, and when you show a CAC that says Civilian on it they turn you away.
I’m going to be there the end of next week with both a brand new Freedom Pass and several room reservations. I’m going to try to use my civilian CAC for check ins and pass activation first to see what happens. If it fails I’ll use my mil retired ID.
I will update this post with my findings!!! So keep an eye out the week of the 18th.
Hello Steve, were you able to successfully use your CAC for check-in during your trip? Thanks in advance!
Hi Kylie,
Yes at 3 hotels so far, Hard Rock, Portofino, and Royal Pacific.
Activated my Freedom Pass with the civ CAC also.
Can a two park freedom pass be upgraded to the 3park pass after already purchasing?
Yes it can Laura!
Universal’s exact wording in their employee instructions is that the 2-park can be upgraded to the 3-park “at the park ticket windows.”
But the hotel ticket counter I queried said they should be able to do it as well. As they can do anything the park ticket windows can. I didn’t have one for him to try…
Generally speaking can the Shades of Green ticket office tell you if you’re eligible for these tickets or other military promos by looking at your ID?
Hi Julie,
Shades can verify your eligibility for any ticket if you contact them.
However eligibility for these passes is very clearly defined:
Great–thanks for the info Steve!
Is a 100% disabled veteran eligible? My guess is no since it is not stated.
Do you know by chance?
Hi Allen,
It depends, are you 100% DAVPRM with an military ID that states that? If so you are.
But if you are 100% DAVTMP you are not.
Yes, my card states “DAVPRM.” Appreciate the prompt response.
Then you are good to go Allen.
DAVPRM get the same benefits as retired military as far as tickets.
looks like my military son may not be able to travel due to vaccination issues with covid. he bought us freedom passes for universal. have you heard of any exceptions being made for us to activate the tickets if he is not able to join us or are we going to be going to orlando and not going to be allowed to enter the parks?
I know disney has made these exceptions at their guest services location at Disney springs for example. will Universal show mercy if this happens to us?
Hi DJ,
I’ve not heard of any exceptions. All I can do is give the same recommendation that I do for Disney.
That being, if he can’t make it, have him send the tickets to you as well as a letter explaining why he can’t come and asking that you be allowed to use the Freedom Passes. Any official documentation that supports his inability to travel would also be good. I also recommend a photo copy or pic of his ID.
From this there will be 2 outcomes. 1. Universal will grant an exception and 2. they will not, but will allow you to use the tickets (yours and his if he’s sent it to you) towards full price tickets.
Hope this helps! I’d really appreciate feedback on what happens either way so that I’ll be able to help others!!!
Note: To those who will read this and then complain to me that it isn’t legal to copy a military ID. If the member can’t trust his parents not to use the copy nefariously and destroy it after use, he probably shouldn’t be buying them tickets in the first place.
Thank you Steve. We are going over Memorial Day Weekend so I will let you know. Thank you.
Two Questions:
1) We have 5 of the military 2020 tickets that don’t expire until 12/17/21 with 2 days remaining each. My sister, niece, and nephew are coming to Universal with us in July. We purchased on base the freedom pass for 2021 for them. My husband (ADSM) and myself (spouse) did not buy a freedom pass since we are using our military ticket from 2020. Will these still be able to be activated? Or will my husband or myself need to purchase a 2021 freedom pass as well? It’s confusing because it says that a military member needs to have the pass as well, but we have active military ticket media from the 2020 offer that was extended.
2) We purchased a Freedom Pass for my son’s girlfriend who was to accompany us on the summer trip. She may not be able to go. Her pass has not been activated, but when purchased we needed to give her name. Can we “reassign” this non-activated media to my husband or myself?
Hi Margaret,
In order to activate a Freedom Pass for others, the member must be activating one for themself! Any previous tickets do not effect this according to Universal.
Also, brand new news that I’ve just officially received from Universal and am editing into this post, is that they only allow a single activation event of up to 6 Freedom Passes. They have said that you must activate all that you will be needing through the end of the year all at once (even if some of the passes won’t be used until later in the year) everyone does not need to be present for the activation, just the member…
I just emailed Universal to ask, and yes that ticket can be reassigned at the ticket booth. Just let them know the issue. You could use that one for your husband.
Thank you so much!!! I really really appreciate this. I had no idea where to ask.
Hi Steve, I am active duty military, but I already have an annual season pass (not freedom). Can I purchase these for my family or would I have to still activate a freedom pass for myself?
Hi Joel,
The Universal Military Sales Manager has communicated to me that the member must be activating a Freedom Pass.
I’ve found that on the ground some of the things that were communicated weren’t exactly what I experienced.
You’re local or semi-local I assume. I’d buy the freedom passes that you need for others and go try to activate them noting you already have a more expensive pass. If that fails you can always get a pass and do it that way, but I’d ask for some money back on your AP!!!
Can these tickets be used as digital tickets stored on Apple Wallet (such as the concept Disney is trying out on the MagicMobile pass)?
Hi Jen,
You can scan them into your Universal Orlando app and use them digitally that way (I did on a recent trip). I’m unaware of a way to add them to your wallet like Disney.
Can I use my dependent ID card to activate these tickets at the gate? I’m over 18 so i’m unsure if by dependent child you meant under 18.
Hi Melissa,
No sorry you cannot.
By Dependent Child, Universal means a child of the member with an ID card, age doesn’t matter. If you have an ID you are a dependent of the member, until you lose the ID with age.
Hi Steve,
Is there an update on whether Express passes can be purchased on base or at Shades of Green? For the dates we will be there, the express pass is more than the ticket.
Hi Nichole,
Universal’s Express Pass can only be purchased once you arrive for military tickets as far as I’m aware.
Shades does not have them on their price list.
Great site! I was looking for 1 night at Portofino and all booked up. Let refreshing the reservation page over and over for 2 days and was able to snag the night we needed. Can my reservation be adjusted to the 40% military discount?
Hi Lisa,
I would think not. If they were so booked up that you had to really work to find an opening, the discount wouldn’t have been available.
If it was available for that night you would have been able to book under that rate at the time.
Do this pass include Universal Express Pass after 4:00pm†† at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (one time per participating attraction)
No it doesn’t Michelle.
Just admission, nothing extra.
Is there a military discount for the universal photo pass such as Disney has?
Thank you!
NO,
Sorry there isn’t.
Can any one help me with information on how long it took shades of green to contact them and mail the tickets. Appreciate your response.
Hi Brendan,
Lately I’m hearing wide stats on Shades response time, quick to very slow.
But I have also heard that the Orlando ITT is Very Fast.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/orlando-florida-itt-ticket-sales-office/
Good evening..
Do the passes allow early entry as the regular preferred annual passes?
Hi Melissa,
Sorry, they do not. The freedom pass comes “…without the other benefits that usually go with an AP.”
Hi we are going to meet up with our 12 year old granddaughter who lives in Florida and take her to Universal Studios in Orlando. Her dad is stationed in Destin he’s in the airforce. Can they get a discounted military rate tickets for her? We would be the ones taking her to the park. They will not be present.
Hi Theresa,
Universal’s special Freedom pass requires the member to be there for activation and have a ticket for themselves as well.
He can however buy the regular military discounted tickets (less savings) for her (and you) to use without his being present.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/universal-orlando-resort-military-tickets-and-passes/
Any idea if/when Universal will announce any discounts for 2022? We are contemplating a trip right after Christmas. The current promotional tickets are good till Dec.31,however if this same promotion will happen again in 2022, we would wait a few days and start our trip on Jan. 1, to possibly get in more than one trip with the tickets. Is anything in the works for 2022 that you know of Steve? Thanks!
Hi Denise,
We haven’t heard anything yet.
For this 2021 Special Offer they announced mid December 2020. For the 2020 offer they announced late Dec 2019. Prior to that they always waited to early to late January in the year the offer began.
Steve,
As an AD member, I purchased a Freedom Pass and activated it to use with my brother (who bought his own). I now am hoping to take two friends with me and to get them each an activated Freedom Pass. I’ve read about the policy you wrote about, concerning one activation event, on your blog and one other blog. From this info, it seems I wouldn’t be able to activate additional passes. However, I’ve called a couple MWR ITTs (including the one in Orlando) as well as the Universal ticketing help line and heard from all sources that either they have not heard of that policy or that what is being said is not true and that I can activate another group of passes as long as the total is 6 or less. Has the policy changed that you know about? If not, who did you hear it from and would you mind sharing the phone number or email for that contact?
Thank you!
Hi there Chris,
I was briefed on this policy by Universal Orlando’s Military Sales Manager. I don’t know that I have permission to share her office contact info.
However I’d say take it with a grain of salt. Early on there were differences between their policy and implementation of DoD Civ eligibility.
It makes zero sense. They’d be turning away business if this were the case.
I think that if you went up to a ticket window or hotel ticket location you would probably have no issue activating them and then just link them to whom you want in the app or give the hard copy ticket to your guests.
I was able to contact the Universal Military Liason through my local ITT and confirmed that the what you have posted is true. Only one activation event per card is permitted. And to clarify another point mentioned above in the comments, she also confirmed DOD civilians can activate passes in the same way military can. Thank you for posting the details. Without having read your website, I would have been very disappointed at the gate.
Thanks for the intel and feedback Chris!