Hi there Bryce, and welcome to planDisney!
Now as someone who was born into the quirky-name club, I can't begin to tell you how frequently I'm asked to show proof of identity especially walking around as a Prince at Disney Destinations around the world. This has been something I've recently dealt with in a different respect since
getting married at Walt Disney World Resort, having a Disney Wedding and going by a new last name, so I'm happy to help shed some light on this one for you and your friends!
Based on my personal experience and confirming with the friendly Cast Members at Guest Relations, it's absolutely possible for guests to change to a chosen or preferred name or even pronouns in the My Disney Experience app and Cast Members throughout Walt Disney World Resort will use these to address them. Some folks grow up and go on Disney vacations and go by a different name for years as a child and even
have their MagicBand customized with this name, only to discover as an adult that this name may be required to match what is shown on their photo identification. This is typically only in situations where they may be asked to present identification in order to
purchase alcoholic beverages, pick up Will Call tickets or physical admission media at Ticket Windows,
prove their residency to be eligible for certain offerings or even when
checking in as the lead guest on a Resort Hotel reservation. (Most commonly I find myself having to show my ID whenever I'm taking advantage of any special discounts aimed at
Annual Passholders,
Disney Vacation Club or
D23 Gold Members.)
I have had various friends and family over the years encounter this when they change or go by a completely different name from what they were given at birth, and it's also important to note that when plans are
linked between Friends and Family in My Disney Experience everyone will be able to see whatever name they have listed there. However if they do begin the process of updating their government-issued photo identification to their chosen or preferred name, I recommend making the change in My Disney Experience to ensure that it reflects this.
I hope that this helps, Bryce! Be sure to
come back to planDisney again for any more answers or advice before you and your friends head down for your next adventure!
Wishing you all the best on your upcoming visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth!
Prince