Registration Frequently Asked Questions

We partner with Nimbus Disability Consultancy who run the “Access Card” Scheme. Nimbus Disability is an organisation of disabled people which specialises in the legislation behind The Equality Act and are recognised as a lead authority on accessible ticketing in the UK.

It is really important that we ensure our Ride Access Pass system remains beneficial for those who simply could not visit our attractions without one. Access Card (run by Nimbus Disability) have a robust and detailed application process, providing the opportunity to upload evidence, supporting documents and include any information about the barriers you face when visiting an attraction.

Unlike the previous process through Merlin where we have asked for a Blue Badge or Higher rate DLA/PIP, the Access Card application process is more focused on an assessment of an individual person and the barriers they face as an individual. They ask for any documentation and details to support an application and their expertise and knowledge of a wide range of disabilities makes them the right people to make this decision.

Applying for a Ride Access Pass in advance is essential to ensure you get the best possible experience when you visit our attraction. There is still a provision on the day for applications, however due to the robust processes in place, it may take an hour on the day. We strongly advise to organise your RAP in advance – so on your visit, you can focus on having FUN!

Typically a decision is made on an application within 72 hours, however at peak times it may be longer. If you are visiting a Merlin attraction in the next 2-3 days you can apply for a temporary Ride Access Pass Card by clicking here.

Important Information: the Temporary Ride Access Pass will only be valid for 7 days from the date of approval and you will only be able to apply for a Temporary Ride Access Pass once, after which you must go through the full application process for a 3 year Ride Access Pass.

A Merlin Ride Access Pass is valid for 3 years from the date of issue and is valid for use by the guest named and photographed on the card.

If you already have an Access Card with the Queuing or Wheelchair symbol on it, you do not need to go through the application process again, you can head straight here to create your Merlin Ride Access Pass card.

Once Access Card have approved your application you will get an ID number. Simply head to the Access Card website here with your ID number, where you can create your Ride Access Pass.

It is completely free to apply for a Ride Access Pass. During the application process you have the option to upgrade to an Access Card, priced at £15 for 3 years.

The Access Card can be used to demonstrate your needs in relation to the equality act at many venues across the UK and is widely recognised by theme parks, ticketing companies, theatres, retail and many more venues. The price is £15 for 3 years, you can find out more information here.

The Access Card (sometimes referred to as the CredAbility Card or a Nimbus Card) translates an individual’s disability into symbols that highlight the barriers they face and the reasonable adjustments they might need – almost like a ‘Disability Passport’.

This card helps inform our teams quickly and discreetly about the support needed whilst at our attractions, so our teams can make reasonable adjustments without having to go into large amounts of personal detail.

Find out more about how an Access Card can help here.

You do not have to have an Access Card to obtain a Ride Access Pass. Merlin Ride Access Pass applications remain completely free.

As part of our new partnership, applications are managed by Nimbus Disability, who also operate the Access Card. They ask for any documentation and details to support an application and their expertise and knowledge of a wide range of disabilities makes them the right people to make the decision.

During the application process for a Merlin Ride Access Pass, you have the option to upgrade to an Access Card, priced at £15 for 3 years.

You can visit the Access Card web site here https://www.accesscard.org.uk/faqs/ for more information.