Walt Disney World’s new resort hotel transportation verification policy is now in effect at Disney Springs, with the changes rolling out this morning, June 28, 2026.
Photos taken this morning show the setup at the Disney Springs bus loop. A row of Disney Springs-branded barricades now blocks direct access to the bus area, channeling guests toward verification checkpoints before they can board. Cast Members are stationed at shaded umbrella stands where MagicBands and resort ID cards are being scanned to confirm eligibility.
There are two checkpoints in operation — one near the Orange parking garage and one near the Lime parking garage — covering both main approaches to the bus loop.
What You Need to Board
To use Walt Disney World bus service or the Sassagoula River Cruise from Disney Springs to resort hotels, you need one of the following:
A valid Disney Resort Hotel room key or MagicBand linked to an active resort reservation
A valid dining reservation at a resort hotel
A valid Enchanting Extras reservation at a resort hotel
Guests with a dining or Enchanting Extras reservation can board up to two hours before their reservation time.
What This Policy Does Not Affect
This verification applies only to Disney transportation departing from Disney Springs to resort hotels. If you’re visiting Disney Springs for shopping or dining, there is no impact on your visit. Guests at the theme parks can continue to use Disney transportation to visit resort hotels as normal.
Background
The policy follows successful trials during the New Year’s and Easter periods. Disney confirmed the permanent change after WDWMAGIC sources first reported the plan earlier this month. The verification process addresses guests using Disney Springs parking to access resort buses without paying theme park parking fees, and helps free up capacity on the transportation system for resort guests.
WDWMAGIC sources familiar the matter indicate that Disney is also investigating the feasibility of expanding the verification process to other areas of the property and other forms of transportation at a later date. Disney has not yet officially announced any further policy changes for its transportation system.
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