Hi there, Jamie! Welcome to planDisney! And can I just say, I can’t think of a more perfect gift than a visit to The Happiest Place on Earth—talk about wrapping up memories instead of packages!
Since you mentioned “passes,” I wanted to start by clarifying that there is a difference between
theme park tickets and
Magic Key annual passes, since tickets are most commonly given as gifts. I’ll start there, then share a bit about Magic Keys as well, just in case that’s what you’re asking about.
The great news is that yes, you can absolutely change the name on a wholly unused theme park ticket after it’s been purchased. As long as the ticket hasn’t been used yet, the name can be updated by calling the
tickets phone line and speaking with a friendly Cast Member before your visit to Disneyland Resort. That said, here’s a helpful piece of Disney know-how: the name printed on the ticket doesn’t actually have to match the person who will use it. When the ticket is scanned at the park entrance for the very first time, a photo is taken and the ticket is then linked to that Guest based on their photo, not the name on the ticket. From that moment on, it’s officially their ticket, pixie dust and all.
Even so, there can be advantages to updating the name on the ticket ahead of time. For example, if the ticket recipient will be visiting with a group and plans to use
Lightning Lane Multi Pass, having the correct name on each ticket can make things easier when selecting
attractions. It helps everyone quickly see who’s riding what, so you can spend less time tapping screens and more time racing off to your next adventure like you’re late for a
parade!
Now Jamie, if you’re referring to a
Magic Key annual pass, the answer is also yes—it’s possible to update the name on the pass. This can typically be done by calling the
Magic Key holders phone line and speaking with a Cast Member. I’ve even helped my own spouse update the name on his Magic Key in person at a Disneyland Resort ticket booth. His pass originally listed his legal first name, but since he goes by his middle name, he wanted it to reflect the name he actually uses. A helpful Cast Member took care of it in just a quick minute or two.
Here’s one final tip when gifting tickets or passes, Jamie: be sure the recipient links them in the
Disneyland mobile app ahead of time. That makes it easy to manage
park reservations, Lightning Lane selections, and all the little details that help turn a thoughtful gift into an unforgettable Disney day.
I hope this clears things up and lets you focus on the fun part—surprising someone with a little Disney magic. If any other questions pop up as you plan (like where to find the best treats—spoiler alert,
Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe is my favorite!), we’d be delighted to help here at planDisney. After all, I believe Disney magic is one of the very best kinds of gifts to give!
Have an enchanting day!
Cody