Hi, Pam! Those PIN codes are like getting a Christmas present when it's not even Christmas! The PIN codes are offered without any real rhyme or reason, so I can't tell you how exactly you go about getting one. I do know, however, ways that seem to increase your chances of having one sent to you.
If you haven't registered an account at the official
Walt Disney World website, start there. It's a great thing to have anyway, especially with My Disney Experience, allowing you to keep track of reservations, dining plans, and other vacation activities. You might also want to request a copy of the
Disney Vacation Planning DVD. I have heard guests say they were offered a PIN code not long after ordering custom maps of the theme parks.
You might also want to spend some time at the website, planning a vacation, browsing options, etc. I know people who feel that they were sent PIN codes because they played around so much at planning their vacation without committing to one, it was an incentive for them to actually book a vacation!
I wish I could tell you how to get your hands on one of these elusive codes. I know some guests have gotten codes for free dining that is good until December 4th, but none of the guests I have spoken with know why they were specifically chosen.
If you have a friend or relative with a PIN code that will be booking rooms, the codes usually allow you to book up to three rooms. The only requirement is that the guest to whom the PIN code was sent must be registered in one of the rooms.
I hope this helps!